William Dalva Jones

Mr. William Dalva Jones, age 68, passed away on Tuesday, May 26, 2026 in Gainesville, Georgia. He was born to the late W.H. “Dub” Jones and Louise Hopkins Jones in Gainesville, Georgia on April 10, 1958.

A dedicated educator and coach, Dalva poured his life into the youth and community of Northeast Georgia. His love for sports began early, playing baseball through both high school and college. This passion naturally moved into a remarkable 31-year career in education with the Hall County School System. To further his mission of serving others, he earned his Bachelor’s degree from Piedmont College, his Master’s degree from the University of North Georgia, and his Specialist’s degree back at Piedmont. As a teacher and coach, he was very devoted to his students, guiding numerous young athletes across various high school sports.

Even after his retirement, Dalva’s genuine love for people couldn't keep him still; on weekends, he could be found greeting locals and visitors alike as he drove the Gainesville Trolley.

Dalva’s faith and community roots were deep, having been a faithful member of Airline Baptist Church for over 40 years. He was an avid, lifelong fan of the Atlanta Braves and UGA football, but his greatest joy always came from the people he loved. He cherished spending time on the golf course with his sons and his dad. More than anything else in the world, Dalva loved watching his grandchildren play sports, he was their biggest fan and truly never missed a single game. Known as “D”, he was a hero in the eyes of all 4 grandsons and truly their best friends.

Dalva is preceded in death by his parents; his mother & father-in-law, Helen and Rex Tatum; brother, Duane Jones; and sister-in-law, Jan Ledford.

He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Sandra Jones of Gainesville, GA; sons, Derrick Jones of Gainesville, GA, and Corey (Anneliese) Jones of Gainesville, GA; siblings, Dwight Jones of Gainesville, GA, Denise (Chester) Gibson of Murrayville, GA, Debra (Chip) Smith of Gainesville, GA; sister-in-law, Julie Jones of Gainesville, GA; brother-in-law, Kenneth Ledford of Demorest, GA; grandchildren, Lake, Dub, Emmett, and Shepherd Jones; and many other loving nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A celebration of life service will be held in the Chapel at Memorial Park Funeral Home on Tuesday, June 2, 2026 at 4:00 PM. Reverend Zach Johnson and Chip Smith will be officiating the service. The family will be receiving friends at the funeral home on Monday, June 1, 2026 from 5:00 to 8:00 PM and on Tuesday, June 2, 2026 from 2:00 to 4:00 PM.

Memorial Park Funeral Home, 2030 Memorial Park Drive, Gainesville, Georgia 30504 is in charge of the arrangements.

Send online condolences to memorialparkfuneralhomes.com 

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