Richard Prather Jones

Richard Prather Jones, age 77, of Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, formerly of Harrison, Ohio, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2026. 

Born on November 15, 1948, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Richard was the son of the late Roland and Floretta Jones. He was also preceded in death by his former spouse, Kathy Babst, and his brother, Michael. 

Richard attended both the University of Cincinnati and Virginia Tech, earning master's degrees from each institution before becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). He enjoyed a distinguished career as Chief Financial Officer of OPW in Cincinnati, Ohio. Richard proudly served his country in the United States Navy, and his commitment to service remained a defining part of his life. 

Following his retirement, Richard and his beloved wife, Patricia, made their homes in Honor, Michigan, and Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. Richard found his greatest joy outdoors, whether fishing, hunting, or relaxing with a good book while reading about his favorite subject—military history. 

Richard was active in several organizations and was a proud member of the National Rifle Association (NRA), the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, and the Honor Township Council. His dedication to his community reflected his generous spirit, quiet leadership, and willingness to help others. 

Richard is survived by his loving wife, Patricia J. Jones, whom he married on June 30, 2007; his children, Matthew Jones (Amy) of Cincinnati, Ohio, and Stacey Jerrauld of Independence, Kentucky; his cherished grandchildren, Colton Jones and Penelope Jones; and his stepchildren, Beth Burleson of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Christopher Blum of Travelers Rest, South Carolina, E. Alexander Blum of Harrison, Ohio, and Nicole Leininger of Cleves, Ohio. He is also survived by eight additional grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and many extended family members, neighbors, and dear friends. 

Richard will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to his family, his distinguished career, his service to his country and community, and his love of the outdoors. His grandchildren will forever cherish the mischievous tales of his childhood that he loved to share—stories that always brought laughter and reflected his playful spirit. His kindness, wisdom, and quiet strength left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to have known him. 

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in Cincinnati, Ohio. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. 

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the physicians, nurses, and staff of the ICU at Tidelands Waccamaw Community Hospital for the exceptional care and compassion they provided during Richard's final days. They are also deeply grateful to their family, neighbors, and friends for their love, kindness, and unwavering support.

To view these details online or to offer words of comfort through the online guestbook, please visit www.burroughsfh.com

Burroughs Funeral Home and Cremation Service (843.651.1440) of Murrells Inlet is assisting the family with arrangements.