Ilene Jones died Tuesday, January 9, 2018 from Aspiration Pneumonia. She was 87.
Born in St. Anthony, ID on September 9, 1930 to Donald and Lucile Rydalch and raised in Plano, ID by a loving family on a potato farm, Ilene had 3 siblings, LaVal (Lillian) Rydalch, Bea (Cliff) Taylor and Roger (Monte) Rydalch.
Ilene attended Idaho State University (ISU) where she met and fell in love with a handsome football player, Lamont Jones. They married February 1, 1951. After brief military stints in New Jersey and California, and after Lamont completed law school, they settled in Pocatello and became adoring parents to Lisa and Lance.
Ilene graduated from ISU with a Bachelor Degree and was involved in various capacities with events, committees, and activities of ISU. A rather generous and giving woman who thrived on helping others, Ilene was known in the community for her integrity, volunteerism and endearing compassion. She loved to travel and became an artist. Ilene was a member of the Pocatello Art Center since its inception. She joined the Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O.) in 1978 and was diligent in serving for the benefit of single mothers seeking a college education. This was Ilene's passion, next to spoiling her four grandchildren.
A member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Ilene enjoyed many callings which brought her closer to the Savior and gave her knowledge of being with Lamont again. With dear friends, family support and a lifetime of burdensome challenges, Ilene became a pillar of strength. She was tenacious in her ability to endure and see hope in every situation.
Ilene is preceded in death by husband, Lamont, her parents and brother, LaVal. She is survived by daughter, Lisa Jones, son, Lance (Shelli) Jones, four grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, 2 siblings, and her sister-in-law, Margaret Bowen.
Ilene did not wish to have a viewing nor a funeral.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to:
P.E.O. Chapter BJ
4075 Mountain Loop
Pocatello, ID 83204
