Jennifer Jones

Jennifer Anne Kennedy Jones, beautiful wife, loving mother, dear daughter, sister and friend, passed away peacefully on Thursday evening, August 11, 2011 in the presence of her family after a valiant thirteen-year struggle with a brain tumor. Jen experienced many challenges as a result of her illness, but refused to let it define the life she wanted to live or the person she was. She inspired everyone with her positive attitude, sense of humor, and quiet strength. Her dignity and grace in the face of adversity is a testament to her faith and character. Jennifer was born on March 31, 1972 in Arcadia, California to John and Sharon Kennedy. As a young girl she attended Highland Oaks School, spoke at her graduation from Foothills Jr. High, and competed in Varsity Volleyball at Arcadia High School. Jennifer went on to pursue a bachelors degree in Elementary Education from Brigham Young University where she also played NCAA Division I volleyball. Upon graduation from BYU, Jen began teaching Kindergarten. With love in her heart she married Scott Jones from Centerville, UT on May 23, 1996 in the Bountiful Temple. She always said she chose Scott, because he makes me laugh. The early years of their marriage were happy, filled with fun activities, and the anticipation of starting a family. With much excitement they moved into their first home in Bountiful in November 1998, only to discover days later that Jennifer had a brain tumor and would need immediate surgery. As family and friends rallied to support Jen and Scott through this trial, no one could imagine that the next thirteen years would include five major brain surgeries, countless doses of chemotherapy, radiation and medications, as Jennifer fought to preserve the dream of being a wife and mother. Jens efforts were greatly rewarded when a period of good health allowed her to give birth to a wonderful son, Carter in November 2000. Carter has his Mothers personality and has made his parents proud with his accomplishments. Carter knows that his birth was one of the happiest days of his Moms life. Four years later, Tanner came to join the family. His unique and vivacious personality added much joy, making the Jones family whole and complete. Tanners path to our family is nothing short of a miracle. Jennifer relished the role of motherhood, dearly loved her boys, and will always be watching over them. The opportunity to serve and care for Jen and her family has been a blessing to family, friends, and neighbors. Jen and Scott graciously allowed others into their lives to help maintain a home and care for children. Jen was so appreciative of the special close friends that continued to bring her joy, include her in their lives, and loved her unconditionally. The loss of Jennifer brings great sadness to many, but her life of righteousness, love, and happiness was filled with memories that we all cherish deeply. Jennifer is survived by her loving husband Scott Lynn Jones and her precious boys Carter Scott (10) and Tanner Ethan (6); her parents John and Sharon Kennedy, her sisters Megan Kennedy and Emily Kennedy Kahler (Matthew & son Elias), wonderful aunts, uncles and cousins, and a large circle of treasured friends. Jennifer was preceded in death by her sweet sister Amy Susanne Kennedy (1976-1998). Scotts family includes parents, Clarence and Jayne Jones, siblings Paul (Kim), Ann Spencer (Brian), Brent (Jill) and eleven special nieces and nephews. Friends may visit the family Tuesday, August 16 from 6:00 8:00 pm at Russon Brothers Mortuary, 295 North Main, Bountiful, UT. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, August 17 at 11:00 am in the Orchard 6th Ward, 3599 S. Orchard Dr. Bountiful, UT, with visitation from 9:30 10:30 that morning at the church. Contributions for the family are being accepted under the Jennifer Kennedy Jones Donation Fund at any Zions Bank location.