Mr. Lorne “Kali” M. Jones, Age 64, of Knoxville, Tennessee, transitioned peacefully to be with his Heavenly Father on Sunday, January 11, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family at home. He is also preceded in death by his parents, Eddie and Mamie Jones; brother, James Chandler; sisters, Delois Wells, Patricia Brown, and Linda C. Jones; and nephew, Anthony Brown.
He was a proud graduate of Austin-East High School, Class of 1980, where he excelled as an outstanding basketball player. Lorne continued his education at West Georgia University, where he pledged Kappa Alpha Psi. He later dedicated more than fifteen years of service to Chevron before retiring. Lorne was a faithful and devoted member of Mt. Calvary Baptist Church.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of fourteen years, Ethel Lynn Jones. Their bond was inseparable, and they were rarely seen apart. Lorne cherished the life they built together, and now he rejoins her as they rest together in their heavenly home.
Cherishing his memory are his brothers, Charles Chandler, Eddie (Kim) Jones, and Danny (Melba) Jones; sisters, Wanda Battle and Tracy (Shawn) Herman; stepsons, Rev. Aljerome Grimes and Trevail Minefield; step grandchildren, Briauna Grimes, Amoni Grimes, Maliyah Minefield, Carter Minefield, and Austin Booth; longtime friend and brother, DJ (Sheryl) Jordan; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren, and friends who were countless in number; mother-in-law, Alfredda Whitmire, Brother-in-law, Ira “Chipper” Grimes, Jr.
The Funeral Service will be held Friday, January 16, 2026 at 4:00 P.M. at Mt. Calvary Baptist Church,1807 Dandridge Ave, Knoxville, Tennessee 37915 with Dr. Jason Mosley as Eulogist. The family will receive friends from 3:00 P.M. until 4:00 P.M. Arrangements entrusted to Willis Funeral Home, Inc., Dalton, Georgia.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Trevail Minefield for the unwavering dedication, support, and love shown to Lorne. A special thank you is also given to the UT Hospice staff for their compassionate care.
Jones Family, praying for God's peace that surpasses our understanding.🙏🏽
My deepest condolences to the Jones family may Lorne rest in eternal peace.
GOD so loved the world that HE gave HIS only begotten SON that whoever believes in HIM should not perish but have everlasting life. We all love Lorne(Kali) but GOD loved him best. Our deepest condolences to the family.
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.