Gene Jones Obituary

Gene Edward Jones, better known as ‘Ditch Digger’ or ‘Jonesy’ passed away peacefully on June 10, 2025 at his home in Midland, SD. Born in Floydada, TX to “RT” (Robert Toliver) and Eva “Annie” (Cumbie) Jones on October 6, 1940, the eldest of three children. His story is one of hard work, dedication and family values.

Gene attended elementary school in Dougherty, TX and began high school in Floydada, TX. When he was 15 his family moved to Midland, SD, a place he called home the remainder of his time on earth. His senior year he chose to attend Philip High School in order to pursue his passion for football. Upon graduating in 1959, he forewent college and a football scholarship to work for his Dad and neighbors farming/ranching and then highway construction. Following, he began his life-long career in plumbing and excavating/trenching. While enrolled in high school, Gene also enlisted in the Army National Guard (1957), serving 11 years before he was honorably discharged in 1968 as a Staff Sergeant. In 1960, he earned Soldier of the Year, CO. C 109th Engr. BN. During this time he also earned his pilot license.

On August 15, 1964, Gene was united in marriage to Audrey Ellen Nemec and they were blessed with seven children. In 1965, he purchased his trusty Hopto backhoe and started G&A Trenching. Gene taught himself to operate the backhoe by digging ‘practice holes’ for people. G&A Trenching served the rural community’s plumbing, waterworks, and excavation/trenching needs for 54 years until finally retiring in October 2019.

Gene’s work ethic was unparalleled, often working long hours to ensure the community’s needs were met. He knew nearly every water and sewer line within a 50-mile radius of Midland and could help you locate them till the day he died - but not without some colorful language.

Gene’s sense of humor and social nature made him a friend in the community, he never met a stranger. From never letting your cup go empty to his community service. He enjoyed running Wednesday night open gym, commentating football games, umpiring baseball, coaching women’s softball, and 50+ years as a member of the Commercial Club, where he emceed the annual “Free Day” festivities. Gene left a lasting impact on the community. While he didn’t explicitly show his love for the Lord, he expressed it in many other ways through selfless service and generous actions.

It was no secret that Gene was an avid sports competitor and fan, especially softball. Over the course of his 50+ year softball career, he played league ball in nearly every community within a 60-mile radius. He also enjoyed bowling, volleyball, the annual 50 yd dash against his daughters and watching football (Dallas Cowboys) and old westerns, especially Gunsmoke.

What mattered most to him was family. His wife, Audrey, was his partner in every sense, supporting each other through the ups and downs of life. Gene was actively involved in his children's lives, supporting their activities loud and proud from the stands and teaching them the value of hard work and perseverance. He was proud of his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren and the joy and happiness they brought him. Gene made a point to regularly check in with everyone and his phone calls will be greatly missed.

Gene never missed a beat and his stories and one-liners will live on in the lessons he taught and the values he instilled. While his absence is deeply felt, his memory is with each and everyone he knew.

Survivors include his wife Audrey of Midland; children: Richard (Jesielene) Jones of Navarre, FL; Lisa (Mathew) Foley of Pierre; Brenda (Todd) Jones-Nierman of Bennington, NE; Edna (Roger) Dale of Midland; Linda (Brandan) Jones-Giltner of Meriden, KS; Julie (Jeremiah) Jones-Whitcher of Buffalo Gap; and Paula Jones of Rapid City; 18 grandchildren: Catherine (Lucas) Overall; Anthony (Yuri) Jones; Dackery (Katelynn) Geiman; Levi Geiman; Samantha (Brady) Hicks; Jaycie (Mike) Potter; Trevor (Sima) Nierman; Emily (Dominic) Sabbarese; Zoey Nierman; Brandon (Alicia) Dale; Destiny (Kyle) Iwan; Miranda Dale; Mariah Dale; Triston Giltner; Taylor Giltner; Lane Whitcher; Walt Whitcher; and Warren Whitcher; 10 great-grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Nelda Ann Cleveland and Linda Sue Jones.

Services will be held at 11 a.m. MST Thursday, July 3, 2025 at the Midland School Auditorium with Pastor Tel Saucerman officiating. Visitation will be at 10 a.m. MST.

Interment with military honors will follow at the Midland Cemetery.

In honor of Gene, the family asks that everyone dresses casually and wears their Midland Viking, Texas Tech, or Dallas Cowboy attire.

Cards and memorials may be sent to P.O. Box 83 Midland, SD 57552.

Guest Book

Audrey and Family...Please accept my sincere condolences on Gene's passing. It was an extra blow because I just recently reminisced with Gene at my brother's inurnment. His smile and buoyant personality will be missed by everyone. Prov. 3:5-6 Love Pat & Sheila
~ Robert (Pat) Haddock OMAHA (6/13/2025)

Audrey and cousins— We grieve with you and for you in the loss of your husband, dad, and grandpa! Gene’s loud and bright presence within the small Midland community were undeniable and a staple that made me feel “at home” whenever I returned to visit. I especially remember his booming voice providing play by play action all day long during Free Day celebrations! He worked hard and loved all of you deeply! My thoughts and prayers will continue to be with all of you throughout this difficult transition and time.
~ Becky Thompson Lakeville, MN (6/14/2025)

To my Aunt Audrey and Jones cousins, Uncle Gene was such a staple in my growing up years in Midland. He certainly was special to me and my family. We love you all so very much.
~ Ellie Saucerman Rapid City (6/12/2025)

Audrey and Family-
May God keep you close during this hard time. Gene was a great man and gave so much to the community. He will be missed by many.
~ Julie McLaughlin Midland (6/20/2025)

I was so sorry to hear of Gene’s passing. John and I always enjoyed visiting with him when he came to the ranch to work on the many water leaks. He will be greatly missed. He was one of a kind. My prayers and sympathy are with you and your family.
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~ Lenette Bothwell Huron (6/19/2025)

I will always remember Gene with a softball glove on his hand, playing the game he loved. He was incredibly fast on his feet, and quick with a smile. Rest in peace.
~ Kristin Woitte Washington (6/11/2025)

So sorry to hear of Gene’s passing he was a great individual and friend. He will be missed by all who knew him
Iur Thoughts and Prayers are with his Families 🙏✝️🙏✝️
~ Gill Hedman Pierre SD (6/11/2025)

Gene Jones

of Midland, South Dakota, died on Tuesday, June 10, 2025
at his home in Midland at the age of 84

Service Details

Guest Book

Gene Jones

of Midland, South Dakota, died on Tuesday, June 10, 2025 at his home in Midland at the age of 84

Service Details

Guest Book

of Midland, South Dakota, died on Tuesday, June 10, 2025
at his home in Midland at the age of 84