Robert F. Jones Of Beach Haven Park Dies At 90

Robert F. Jones - also known as Buster, Big Bob, Daddy-O, Ozzie and The Mayor of 98th Street - passed away peacefully while surrounded by his family after a brief illness.

He was born in Philadelphia, PA and was a graduate of Olney High School and Pierce Business School.

As a Navy radio operator during World War II on LST 783, he saw combat in many of the major South Pacific battles including Saipan, Layte, Iwo Jima and Okinawa. After his honorable discharge from the Navy, Robert was employed as a computer specialist for a pharmaceutical company; Smith Kline and French in Philadelphia.

In 1957, the family purchased their first shore home on Jeffery Drive, in Beach Haven West. In 1961, they purchased property in Peahala Park to accommodate their growing family. In 1969, they bought in Beach Haven Park and moved to LBI year round. He worked for the Kelly Agency as a Real Estate Broker. Bob was able to retire early and enjoy the LBI lifestyle as an avid boater, clammer, fisherman, crabber, and water skier.

He is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 69 years, Mary E. (Pat) Jones. He is also survived by his sister, Evelyn Pigman and brother, Eugene Jones.

The couple has three children, Susan E. Jones of Arcadia, CA, Leslie A. Jones of Manahawkin and Sally J. Burnett of Beach Haven Terrace; two sons-in-law, John Twaddell and Peter Burnett. He also leaves behind two grandchildren, Alexandra Jones Twaddell and Anna Burnett, who will miss their Poppie very much.