Christopher Juan Jones

Christopher Juan Jones “Chris”, a remarkable man of diverse talents and unwavering faith, passed away on August 2, 2024, in his beloved childhood home in Smithfield, Virginia. Surrounded by the love of his sister, Lutetia, and his cherished Aunt Alice, he spent his final months in the comfort of their care. Born June 26, 1964, Chris was a devoted family man whose love for his family was profound. His prayers and encouragement were a constant source of strength for those around him. On June 27, 2012, he exchanged vows with the stunning Maria Espinosa, and together they embraced the role of parents to her equally striking daughter, Shasta Averyhardt. Chris was also a loving companion to his four cherished dogs. A true Renaissance man, Chris effortlessly excelled in a multitude of fields. From the gridiron, where he played for the NFL’s Jets and Giants, as well as the New York Knights (Arena Football) and overseas in Italy, to the silver screen, where he graced movies, commercials, and music videos as a model and actor. His talents were further showcased as a fitness instructor, personal trainer, certified nutritionist and a skilled mixologist. Chris attended Delaware State College on a football scholarship, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing and Business Administration with cum laude honors. He lived most of his life in New Jersey Working as a Golf Caddy, a Manager at a Trucking company, a bartender, a bouncer and a Personal Trainer at Reebok Sports Club in New York City. He moved to Newport News Virginia shortly after the events of September 11, 2001 and began working at Bally's Total Fitness Gym as a Personal Trainer. After Bally's, Chris worked at NASA as a Personal Fitness Trainer and at Patrick Henry Airport as a T.S.A. Agent Simultaneously for over 15 years only giving up his job at NASA when his health began to decline due to Congestive Heart Failure. Chris was such a hard dedicated worker that he did not give up his job at the Airport until April of 2024. His extensive family was a source of immense joy, and he is survived by his loving wife, Maria; stepdaughter, Shasta; sisters Carolyn, (Kevin), Lutetia, Andrea (Corey), Brothers, Johnny, Derek, and Bryant; Aunts Alice and Debra; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is preceded in death by his mother, Alberta Grayson; father, Johnny Jones; grandparents Fred & Alease Johnson, Joseph & Nellie Jones; and uncles Joseph (Duke) Jones, Charles Jones, and Bobby Jones. Chris will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy as a loving husband, devoted stepfather, supportive brother, Cherished nephew and inspiring individual will continue to shine brightly.

Christopher Juan Jones

June 26, 1964 - August 2, 2024