Braxton Jones

Vernon "Braxton" Jones 81, passed away Sunday October 5, 2025 at his home of 50 1/2 years.

Born September 23, 1944 to Vernon P. and Margret Luffman Jones.

After his schooling at the University of Florida, he returned to Ocala to work with

Moorehead Engineering and the Marion County Courthouse drafting department.

He also held a real estate license with Julian Grissom for many years.

With his real estate expertise, he put together the land site for Certified Grocers, Inc. in 1973.

Braxton went on to use that commission to buy his first convenient store.

For many years he ran many convenient stores in and around Ocala and Central Florida.

For 40+ years he built and ran Salt Springs Grocery-his true calling of his career.

Braxton had a lifelong love of everything outdoors. He traveled extensively throughout the U.S. and Canada always looking for the next BIG trophy.

In 1973, he married the love of his life, Cynthia Hickox on August 25.

This past August, they celebrated 52 years of marriage.  In March, 1975 they welcomed their daughter, Heather

and in 1978, they welcomed their son Heath.  In 2002 they welcomed their first Granddaughter, Reese and in

2004 they welcomed their Grandson Hunter.  Braxton was beyond proud of both his children and their accomplishments.

His grandchildren were the light of his life.

Braxton was involved in many organizations including the Ocala Jaycees, Ocala Elks Club, he was one of the

founding members of Citizens Bank of Ocala in the early 80"s.  He sat on the board of directors for Certified Grocers, Eli Witt, and Associated Grocers.

He also served on many Bank boards including Citizens Bank of Ocala, Heritage Bank of the South, and Renasant Bank.

Upon retiring from his last store, Salt Springs Grocery in May of 2015, he began a new family career in J & J Ice with his children and built it into what it is today.

A proud man of many talents, he loved his family and friends and will always be missed.

He is survived by his wife Cynthia (Cindi) Jones, daughter Heather Dawn Howard (Edwin), son Braxton Heath Jones (Jessica), Granddaughter Taylor Reese Howard

Grandson Hunter Braxton Jones, his Sister Diane Pribisco (Thomas), and many other relatives and friends.

We would like to thank all of our family and friends for all of the guidance, support, and love.

The Health organizations of Centerwell Home Health, Gentiva Hospice, Safer at Home Healthcare, our special guardian angel, Sandra Link (Cindi's sister).

A gathering of friends and family will be held Saturday, October 11, 2025 from 2-4 PM at Roberts Funeral Home of Dunnellon, 19939 E. Pennsylvania Avenue, Dunnellon, FL 34432.

Braxton's celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation in Braxton's name to Gentiva Hospice.