Mother Levaris Jones 84, departed this life on Friday July 28, 2017 at her home in Gresham, SC. She was the mother of Anthony I Jones and the grandmother of Anthony Austin, Aaron Austin and Adam Austin. Funeral services are scheduled for 11:00am Saturday August 5, 2017 at the Bethel AME Church, Britton's, Neck. She will be laid to rest in the Soul AME Church Cemetery.

Mother Levaris Boatwright Jones, affectionately known as " Pumpkin" was born Friday, January 27, 1933 in Gresham, SC. She was the daughter of the late Noker and Lethea Boatwright. Levaris was called home on  Friday morning, July 28, 2017.

Levaris or Pumpkin was the last surviving sibling of nine brothers and sisters.

Levaris was educated in Gresham, SC. She received her bachelor's degree in education from Allen University in 1956. Afterwards, she moved to Florida for a short period of time.
In 1959, she moved to Philadelphia, PA. There she met an fell in love with Leroy Jones. They were married in 1961.

After teaching in the public school system for several years, she had the opportunity to pursue her dream of teaching children with special needs.

Levaris taught at Wiggins Elementary School in Camden, NJ for 27 years until her health began to fail. Her affinity for children was ever present.

Levaris joined 2nd Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Philadelphia, PA in 1971. There she was a faithful member until she decided to return home in 2012. She immediately rejoined Soul Chapel AME Church.. She became an usher and joined the senior choir. She loved to cook, helping others, singing, traveling, dancing and just overall enjoyed life. She was the life of the party but don't be late because she COULD NOT tolerate tardiness. Pumpkin enjoyed people. She has an infectious smile and laugh.

Those left to cherish her memories one son: Anthony I. Jones; three grandsons: Anthony I. Austin (Shirelle), Aaron Austin, Adam Austin; four great-grand children: Shalara, Airielle, Sarek and Camron; as well as host of nieces, nephews, cousins and special girlfriend: Blanche Bettie of Philadelphia, PA.