Arvella was born in Annona, Texas on February 24, 1935 and died October 16, 2026. Born to Joe and Rosie Baird, Arvella was the third to the last of 9 children and the last surviving one. She graduated from Annona High School as the valedictorian. Arvella received her Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from East Texas State Teachers College, now East Texas A & M University in business education. Later she completed her Doctorate degree from the University of North Texas.
In 1953, Arvella married Charley Joe Jones. Arvella felt being mother to her 3 daughters, Susan Kay, Carolyn Cecile, and Karen Beth was the most important part of her life. The girls showed their love for Arvella by spending time with er, traveling with her and by writing her sweet notes throughout the years.
Arvella taught business in high school and college for 35 years. She authored 6 books for high school business classes and published 9 articles in business journals. In 1986, she was the National Business Education Teacher of the Year in recognition of her contribution to business education at the secondary level.
Arvella was a member of First Baptist Church, McKinney since 1994 and served on several committees. Throughout the years, she enjoyed playing golf, bridge and babysitting her grandchildren.
Arvella is survived by her three daughters and beloved sons-in-laws: Susan and Shea Pressley (Rachel and Preston) of Colorado Springs, Colorado; Carolyn and Scott Williams (Emily, Connor, Hayden and Grayson) of Van Alstyne, Texas; Karen and Bobby Tindel (Christian and McKenna) of Prosper, Texas; and 10 great-grandchildren. She leaves behind her beloved niece, Linda and her husband Eric Lum along with 2 special friends, Carole Pruitt and Jean Hamby.
She was preceded in death by her parents and grandson, Connor Williams. She was looking forward to dancing with Connor in Heaven.
A graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, October 24, 2026 at Cedarlawn Memorial Park in Sherman, Texas.