On Saturday, a procession that included family, friends and even strangers, escorted the fallen soldier's body back to his hometown of Roxboro.
During the convoy, some stood in salute while others put their hand over their heart to pay respects.
"It says a lot to lay down their life for the country, makes you respect freedom," Roxboro resident Robin Perkins said.
Jones joined the Army last year and had only been overseas for two months when he died.
"I started crying because he was very close to me, it tore me up," Jones friend Wilma Williams said. "Since he was in high school he wanted to join the service, something he wanted to do."
Family members said he was supposed to return home this week, but Saturday's event wasn't the kind of welcome home parade they wanted.
"Person County has a heavy heart right now," Roxboro resident Robin Perkins said. "He gave the ultimate sacrifice.
Visitation for the fallen soldier took place at Providence Baptist Church in Roxboro on Sunday. Jones' funeral is set for Monday at the church.
