In Memory of James Maynard Jones

Obituary

James Maynard Jones, 75, of New Hartford, passed away September 10th, 2026 in the comfort of his home with his loving wife, Rochelle, by his side. His last days were spent surrounded by those he loved and those who loved him.

Maynard was born and raised in New Hartford, the son of Jenkins and Dorothy Jones.

When he was in sixth grade, he met Rochelle Cohen, and they were inseparable ever since. Rochelle and Maynard were married on September 15th, 1969 and were soon going to celebrate 57 years of marriage. The two were rarely without the other, and they did everything together -- bike riding, canoeing, breakfast every day at Creekside, miles and miles of walks, working out together, and there wasn't a day that they weren't dressed alike. Their love and devotion to each other was evident in every interaction they had, and was woven into every aspect of their life.

Maynard was a faithful Amtrak employee for over 40 years. He also worked for many years, alongside Rochelle, as a playground monitor at Hughes Elementary School in New Hartford. Long after he retired, he and Rochelle would have former students come up to them wherever they were to tell them how much fun they made their elementary school experience.

Maynard was an ardent fan of the Utica Comets, the New York Rangers, and was a muscle car enthusiast, all passions that he shared with his sons, Michael and Brian. Maynard's true joy in life was his family. He was devoted to his wife, children, and grandchildren, and showed up to every event for them. Nothing made him happier than spending time with his family, talking with them about what was going on in their lives, or seeing them do the things that they loved.

Maynard was a constant presence at every activity from the time his children and grandchildren were young, and continued this as they grew. He learned their hobbies and activities right alongside them so he would be able to follow along as closely as possible.

Maynard's love for his grandchildren was unparalleled and reciprocated by all of them. He was their biggest supporter and fan in everything that they did. The relationships they shared with their grandfather have created memories that they will cherish forever. His wit and humor were embedded in every conversation he had with them. Maynard never missed an opportunity to tell his grandchildren how much he loved them, and how proud he was of them. Maynard was deeply loved and will be deeply missed.

Maynard is survived by his wife of nearly fifty-seven years, Rochelle Jones, his sons and daughters-in-law, Michael and Kelly Jones, of New Hartford, and Brian and Becky Jones, of Waterville, his grandchildren, Chase Eder, of Syracuse, Austin Jones, of New Hartford, Tori Jones, of Whitesboro, and Avery, Declan, and Addy Jones, all of Waterville. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Earline Robinson, of Lantana, Florida.

He was predeceased by his sister-in-law, Henrietta Rastani, of Marlborough, Massachusetts.

His family would like to thank the staff at Upstate Cancer Center at Verona, especially Sue Kolb, for the exceptional care and support that they provided Maynard throughout his illness.

A brief service will be held Saturday, September 19th at 10:00 AM to celebrate Maynard's life at Friedel, Williams & Edmunds Funeral and Cremation Services in New Hartford, NY. At the conclusion of the service, friends and family may stay or come visit until 12:00 PM.

In keeping with Maynard's casual spirit and love of life, please feel free to wear Life is Good clothing, hockey attire, or anything else that you would like.

For online expressions of sympathy go to fwefh.com.

 "Life Is Good."