Staff member Jewelina Jones passes away
For the better part of two decades, Jewelina Jones has been a fixture on campus, helping students, families, staff and university leadership with care and reliability. Her dedication and service over multiple years and across several departments have touched the lives of those with whom she worked, leaving a lasting impact on the people and community she served.
Now, members of the Case Western Reserve University community are mourning the passing of Jones, who died Aug. 5.
Most recently serving as a department assistant supporting the vice president, associate vice presidents and executive assistants in the Division of Student Affairs, Jones was often the first point of contact for the office. With kindness and compassion, she greeted students and families, answered calls, directed people to resources and consistently made others feel welcomed and cared for.
“Though I had only known Jewelina for the past two years, it quickly became clear to me that she brought a welcoming and bright spirit to everyone who visited our office,” said Travis Apgar, vice president for student affairs. “Jewelina loved the university, and especially our students. She will be deeply missed by all of us. More than anything, I believe it is that welcoming spirit—her kindness, warmth and the way she made others feel—that will be remembered most.”
Jones’s service extended well beyond her daily responsibilities. She regularly volunteered for major university initiatives, including student move-in and international student airport transportation. She was also trained in sustained dialogue moderation and willingly supported opportunities that strengthened engagement across campus.
Known to her friends as Judy, Jones consistently went above and beyond for the community she served.
“I will always remember her love for learning, whether it was an art history class, Cricut classes at the library, line dancing classes at the Cleveland Heights Recreation Center or reading new authors in our Sisters Turning Pages book club,” said Churyl Croone, who first met Jones 22 years ago. “Judy was definitely a people person, able to put students and staff at ease. Judy wore many hats; a caring aunt, a devoted mom, and my favorite, forever friend. She had so much life yet to live. I will truly miss Judy's laughter, dedication, presence and positivity.”
Jones’s passing will be deeply felt by the community and the countless people she welcomed, supported and helped. Colleagues and friends shared their gratitude to her years of service and the care and dedication she shared with those around her.
A celebration of life honoring Jones will take place Friday, Aug. 14, at Unity Faith Missionary Baptist Church.
Students who would like support during this time are encouraged to contact University Health and Counseling Services at 216.368.5872. This line is staffed by a counselor 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Faculty and staff can access counseling at any time by calling AllOne Health (formerly IMPACT Solutions) at 1.800.227.6007.
