Chalmer Lee Jones, affectionately known as “CL,” passed away peacefully at the age of 85 in Glendale, Maryland.

Born on June 27, 1940, in Wake County, North Carolina, CL was the eighth of eleven children born to Annie McCullers-Jones and Willie Jones. His early years were profoundly formative, shaped within the embrace of a large and devoted family. Growing up alongside his brothers and sisters, he developed a deep sense of responsibility, resilience, and unity. Even in his youth, he distinguished himself through quiet acts of care—taking pride in stepping in to ease his father’s burden whenever he could, not out of obligation, but out of a sincere and instinctive sense of duty. Those early days—marked by shared work, the warmth of family connection, and simple but meaningful moments like swimming in the pond and gathering plums and blackberries beneath open skies—reflected both his independence and the closeness he shared with those around him. These experiences helped shape a man grounded in strength, compassion, and unwavering devotion to family.

CL attended Lockhart Elementary School and James E. Shepard High School before relocating to Massachusetts in the late 1950s, where he began to carve out a life defined by determination, independence, and purpose. He approached life with intention, guided by an inner resolve to build, to provide, and to create something meaningful for himself and those he loved.

He was a man of presence—distinguished not by volume, but by quiet confidence and unmistakable authenticity. Known for his refined sense of style, his polished appearance, and his appreciation for detail, CL carried himself with a natural dignity that left a lasting impression on all who encountered him.

At his core, CL was a provider, a protector, and a man of deep generosity. Anchored by the guiding principle imparted by his father—“Do not expect anyone to give you anything; if you want something, you must go out and make it for yourself”—he lived a life defined by discipline, hard work, and unwavering commitment to his family. He was fiercely protective of his siblings and those he loved, often placing their needs before his own. His generosity was boundless; whether through his time, his service, or even his resources, he gave freely and without hesitation, which is why he was surrounded by an abundance of friends throughout his life.

CL possessed a natural mechanical ability and an intuitive understanding of how things worked. He found joy in working with his hands, particularly in caring for and restoring cars—another reflection of his patience, skill, and attention to detail. He met life’s challenges with calm resolve and steady determination, embodying a reliability that made him a constant source of strength for others.

In his early years, he was a member of Good Hope Baptist Church, and throughout his life he carried values rooted in faith, integrity, and compassion. He found his greatest joy in the presence of family, in shared stories, and in the quiet moments that become lasting memories. In 2002, CL and his beloved wife, Clarice, retired to Maryland to be closer to their grandchildren—an expression of the deep love and devotion he held for his family.

CL is survived by his devoted wife, Clarice Jones, and his loving children: Toney Jones, Dr. Sharon Russell, and Antwan Jones. He was preceded in death by his sons, Kennie Ray Jones and Charles Jones.

He leaves to cherish his memory his grandchildren: Christiana Jones, Nicholas Cocks, Anthony Jones, Philip Green, Devine Russell, Masai Russell, Lamarie Jones, Zion Russell, and Solai Russell. He is also lovingly remembered by his great-grandchildren.

CL is also survived by his siblings: Esther Dailey, Willie Edward Jones, Sim Jones, Louis Jones, Carrie Grant, and James Jones. He was preceded in death by his brothers Robert Jones, Millard Jones and Romuel Jones, and sister Annie Ruth McCullough. He is further survived by his sisters-in-law Shirley Jones and Barbara Jones.

He also leaves behind his daughter-in-law, Iris Jones and son-in-law, Mark Russell, along with a host of extended family members, dear friends, and a cherished lineage of great-nieces and great-nephews, as well as great-great-nieces and nephews—all of whom carry forward the imprint of his life and love.

Chalmer Lee Jones will be remembered as a man of quiet strength, enduring dignity, and profound generosity—a provider, a protector, and a pillar for all who knew him. His legacy lives not only in what he built, but in the lives he uplifted, the love he gave, and the example he so powerfully set.

Funeral services will take place at the Sol Levinson Funeral Home, 8900 Reisterstown Road, Pikesville, MD 21208, on Monday, April 6, 2026, guests are invited to join the family for a public viewing from 9:30-10:30 am that morning with the funeral service beginning at 10:30 am.. Interment immediately following the funeral service at Dulaney Valley Memorial Gardens, 200 E Padonia Rd, Timonium, MD 21093. For additional information, please contact Eclipse Funerals at 410-777-5857.