Harvey and Bernice Jones were an extremely integral part in the growth and success
of Springdale and Northwest Arkansas. Before his death in 1989, Harvey
was
successful in establishing and running one of the largest
trucking businesses in the United States, Jones Truck
Lines. In his success, Harvey was always aware and wanting
to improve his community and the lives of his neighbors.
In the 1930's, when Springdale could not afford to keep
the schools open, Harvey rented a church, hired a teacher
and paid for school supplies so they could continue teaching
the children.
Harvey was instrumental in the development of the city's
first hospital, Springdale Memorial Hospital. He served
on the board for 47 years, nurturing and providing financial
support through the hospital expansion into Northwest
Medical Center, and growth of their medical programs.
Harvey served many years on the local bank board providing
leadership and advice in the financial stability of
the city and many families.
 Harvey
married Bernice Young, in 1938, who was
a caring, giving and as community supportive as he.
Bernice, a school teacher, had a great love for children
and, throughout her life, supported and made the
lives of many children far better. Bernice was
a lead supporter for the Children's Library Fund, Arkansas
Children's Hospital, the Baptist Youth Ranch, and various
other children's learning and disability programs that
vastly improve young lives. Bernice also shared Harvey's
love for their community. She also served on the hospital
board, started the hospital's auxiliary and supported
several of the local ministries.
Throughout the lives of Harvey and BerniceJones, giving was a key element. Their biggest gift that
has been given is their legacy gift: The Harvey and Bernice
Jones Center for Families. The Center is a vision
that Bernice had "to serve families, strengthen community
and glorify God." Thus, continuing forever, what she
and Harvey worked to achieve each day.
Bernice, with the help of friends, built the building,
implemented many programs and continues to strengthen
an endowment that will continue the vision to make this
gift to Northwest Arkansas last a lifetime. It is a
gift that keeps on giving. |
