Steven Jones

Steven Lee Jones, 67, died on January 17, 2026, due to injuries sustained in a vehicle accident. Steven was born on August 20, 1958, to Herbert Melcher and Cleota Melcher in Billings, MT. From this union, his brothers Michael and Paul were also born. Following their divorce, Cleota married Gene Jones. Gene brought two daughters, LaRita and Cindy to the family, and together they had two more boys, Randy and James. Steve was married to Terry Whalen from 1982 until their divorce in 2011. He never had children of his own but was very close to Terry’s kids and grandkids.

Steve was a kind man and a friend to many. He loved horses and had a remarkable ability to talk to them and handle them and enjoyed ranch work for many years. He also had his own business as a roofing contractor. Since retirement, he had focused on creating art with wood and was a skilled artist and craftsman, most recently creating unique frames for his friend Angela Rafferty’s artwork. He enjoyed photography and was a very creative and perceptive photographer. Steve was also an attentive uncle, especially taking his brother James’ sons, Aaron and Daniel, under his wing after the passing of their father. He was especially close to his cousin Lorinda and her son Lonnie and lived with them until his death.

At an early age, Steve was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses and strongly believed in the resurrection hope spoken of in the Bible. Our hope is to see him again soon in a more peaceful world where he can once again enjoy his talents, ride his horses, and live a full life without the pain and problems that faced him daily. (Psalm 37:11, 29)

He is survived by his brothers, Michael Jones (Sharee) and Paul Melcher (Holly), and his sisters LaRita Jones and Cindy Hargrove. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gene and Cleota Jone,s and his younger brothers, James and Randy Jones. A memorial gathering for family and friends will be held at a future date.