On Friday, June 28, 2024, Macon-Bibb County and loved ones unveiled street signs dedicated to Pastor Charles Jones on Plant Street. The street dedication ceremony happened at the Greater Rising Star Full Gospel Tabernacle Church on Plant Street, where Jones served as a Pastor for almost 30 years. Click here to watch the full ceremony.
In April, the Commission unanimously approved dedication a portion of Plant Street, between Jeff Davis Street and Mercer University Drive in Jones’ honor.
“Pastor Jones has done so many wonderful things in the Bellevue Community, where I grew up,” said District 2 Commissioner Paul Bronson. “He had an initiative called ‘Down with Dope and Up with Hope’ to fight drugs in the area, that eventually became an example for other cities. Because of his major impact, it’s an honor to pay tribute to him and celebrate his legacy the best way possible.”
“We’re so thankful for this dedication,” said Jones’ wife, Valencia Jones. “This is showing that he was and is appreciated for the work he has done in our community.”
Jones made it his mission to clean up drug activity in the Bellevue neighborhood, but also marched in Red Oak in the Atlanta area, Savannah, and other cities. His humanitarian efforts to remove drug dealers and restore peace and security in communities, allowed him to receive an invitation from President Bill Clinton’s administration to the White House.
He served on the Macon City Council for more than 10 years, from January of 2001 until December 13, 2013. He was also a Bibb County firefighter prior to serving on the Council and became a Chaplain for the Fire Department.
Jones passed away on Thursday, June 13, 2024. His Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, June 29, at 12:00 p.m. at Mt. Lebanon Baptist Church (3805 Bloomfield Drive).