David Alan Jones

David Alan Jones passed away peacefully on May 29, 2026, at the age of 73, leaving behind a legacy of service, generosity, laughter, and unwavering devotion to the people he loved. Born in Sacramento, California, to Everett and Marilyn Jones, Dave lived a life rooted in community, hard work, and meaningful connections. He was the kind of person who truly never met a stranger. Whether you had known him for decades or had just met him moments before, Dave had a remarkable way of making people feel welcome, valued, and like an old friend. Dave graduated from Rio Americano High School in 1971 before continuing his education at Humboldt State University. An Eagle Scout from a young age, he carried the values of integrity, leadership, and service throughout his life. Those principles became the foundation of the man he would become and a deeply trusted friend, dedicated public servant, and steadfast family man. His professional journey reflected both his adventurous spirit and his commitment to serving others. Over the years, Dave worked in forest engineering for private firms, the California Department of Forestry, and California State Parks. He even spent time as an elevator operator at the California State Capitol, a role that no doubt provided plenty of stories to add to his collection. Eventually, he found a professional home with the Sacramento Suburban Water District, where he dedicated 12 years of service before retiring. Retirement, however, was simply another opportunity to give back. Dave was elected to the Sacramento Suburban Water District Board of Directors, where he proudly served his community for nine years. He was also an active and dedicated member of the Kiwanis Club, always eager to lend his time, talents, and energy to causes that strengthened the community he loved. Outside of his public service, Dave found joy in the outdoors and in creating traditions that brought people together. As the proud owner of Rushing Wind Christmas Tree Farm in Placer County, he spent countless weekends planting, tending, and caring for the land. Family and friends quickly learned that a visit to the tree farm often came with an invitation, which was sometimes disguised as a request, to help with a project or two. Those days of hard work, laughter, and shared purpose became some of the memories most cherished by those fortunate enough to spend them with him. More than any title he held or accomplishment he achieved, Dave will be remembered for the way he cared for people. He was the first person to offer help when it was needed, and if he didn’t have the answer, he almost certainly “knew a guy” who did. He had a gift for storytelling, a quick wit, and a sense of humor that could brighten any room. His laughter was contagious, his advice was sincere, and his presence made life’s burdens feel lighter. Above all else, Dave’s greatest joy was his family. He was the devoted husband of Diane Walker-Jones, sharing 36 wonderful years of marriage built on love, partnership, and countless memories. He was a proud father to Karie DeGraffenreid (Miles), and a loving stepfather to Sarah Mitchell and Wes Walker (Aleksandra). Nothing brought him greater happiness than being “Papa” to his seven cherished grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in his heart and brought immeasurable pride and joy to his life. Dave is survived by his beloved wife, children, grandchildren, brother Paul Jones (Linda), sister Jennifer Sorenson (Jeff), sister-in-law Gaylene Jones, as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Everett and Marilyn Jones, and his brother, Jeff Jones. Dave’s life was one of service, kindness, laughter, and love. The lessons he taught, the stories he shared, and the countless lives he touched will continue to live on in those who knew him. While his absence leaves an immeasurable void, his spirit remains present in every helping hand, every well-told story, every perfectly chosen joke, and every Christmas tree planted with hope for the future. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever celebrated

David Alan Jones

January 3, 1953 - May 29, 2026