In Loving Memory of Arvin Leroy Jones
August 10, 1954 – May 13, 2023
Arvin Leroy Jones – a man of extraordinary character, unwavering faith and integrity, and boundless wisdom and love – passed away on May 13, 2023, surrounded by his beloved family. He left this world at peace.
Known for his devotion to his family, outstanding professional achievements, remarkable contributions to community organizations, compassionate spirit, and infectious laugh, Arvin was an inspiration to us all. His warm presence will be deeply missed but forever cherished in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
Born on August 10, 1954, in Louisville, KY, Arvin was the oldest of three boys. At the age of 11, Arvin and his family moved to Dayton, Ohio. From a young age, his staunch determination and tireless work ethic shone brightly. With a keen eye for opportunity, Arvin attended the University of Dayton in 1972 and graduated in 1977 with a B.S. in Industrial Engineering and Management.
After college, Arvin started as an associate industrial engineer at the General Motors (GM) Delco Air plant in Dayton, Ohio, and quickly worked his way up through the ranks, holding various engineering and manufacturing positions of increasing responsibility in both GM’s powertrain and component groups, and establishing himself as a prominent figure in the business world. In 1994, he attended Harvard Business School’s Executive Management Program.
During his time at GM, Arvin held a diverse array of work experiences that include industrial engineering, sales & marketing, strategic planning, assistant plant manager, plant manager, manufacturing manager, and executive director. In 2000, Arvin took an international assignment in England as a director of vehicle assembly, leading more than 9,000 team members. As he continued to rise through the ranks, Arvin prided himself on continuously listening, learning, and supporting the growth and trajectory of young Black professionals at GM. He personally mentored hundreds of young people. His mentoring group was known to be a forum for real talk and he challenged his group to read, share, listen and give back to others. His efforts enriched his mentees and helped retain them at GM and within the automotive industry at large. After an illustrious four-decade career at GM, Arvin retired as Manufacturing Executive Director, Propulsion Systems and Casting Operations.
Family was paramount to Arvin. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, and grandfather. And he used to say his proudest moments were marrying the love of his life, Carla Jones; having their two boys, Alan Jones and Jason Jones; watching his sons blossom into responsible young men with families of their own; and of course, becoming a grandfather to Ryan Jones and Daryn Jones. Being called “Pop-Pop” was a badge of honor that he cherished.
Arvin valued every moment spent with his loved ones, creating unforgettable memories that will be treasured forever. He taught his family the importance of love, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams, inspiring them to be the best versions of themselves.
In addition to his professional and familial pursuits, Arvin was deeply committed to philanthropy and giving back to the community. As a proud member of Kappa Alpa Psi Fraternity, Inc., Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Arvin touched the lives of countless individuals, whether through financial contributions, volunteering his time, or simply lending a helping hand to those in need. For many years, Arvin was also a proud member of Trinity Missionary Baptist Church in Pontiac, MI. He firmly believed in the power of compassion and empathy, and his actions served as a testament to his steadfast commitment to making the world a better place.
Though Arvin may no longer be with us in physical form, his legacy will continue to shine brightly through the lives he touched. He leaves behind a profound impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him, and his spirit will forever guide and inspire us.
Arvin is survived by his amazing wife, Carla Jones, sons Alan Jones (Amaris Jones) and Jason Jones (Amina Colter Jones), grandchildren (Ryan Jones and Daryn Jones), brothers David Jones (Rachel Jones) and Darrell Jones, his nephew Mitchell Jones, and a host of other relatives and friends who will forever cherish his memory. He was preceded in death by his father, Arvin Robert Jones, mother, Mae Elizabeth Jones, and nephew, Jarred Pierce Jones.
A memorial service to celebrate the life of Arvin Leroy Jones will be held at Trinity Missionary Baptist Church on June 3, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. ET. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the National Society of Black Engineers, and Legacy Center at Trinity Missionary Baptist Church as a tribute to Arvin’s lifelong dedication to mentoring and supporting young Black students and professionals. Online condolences may be sent to the family at Shuler’s Memorial Chapel.
During this difficult time, let us remember Arvin’s extraordinary life and find solace in knowing that he lived a life filled with love and joy and has left an enduring legacy of love, kindness, and compassion.
Forever in our hearts, Arvin Leroy Jones will be deeply missed but never forgotten. May he rest in eternal peace.