Frederick Darwin Jones

Frederick Darwin Jones, 88, passed away peacefully at The Chesapeake Retirement Community in Newport News, Virginia, on Thursday, April 30, 2026.
He is survived by his loving family: Sandra Jones, his wife of 66 years; daughter Kelly Komornik and son-in-law David Komornik; beloved granddaughters Katie Komornik and Emily Komornik (and husband Michael); sisters Marsha Holliday and Cheryl White; as well as four nephews and two nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents, Sam and Virginia Jones, and by his brothers, William “Pete” Kessler and George Kessler.

A lifelong learner, dedicated friend, and trusted colleague, Fred leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, curiosity, and light-heartedness. A Naval Reserve veteran, he spent 38 years as a photographer for NASA, including service aboard recovery ships during the early manned Mercury and Gemini missions of the 1960s. Shortly before retiring, Fred was awarded NASA’s Exceptional Service Medal. He graduated from Hampton High School, where he played football, ran track, and was also known as “Bass.”

Fred’s remains were interred at Grace Episcopal Church in Yorktown, Virginia, during a private ceremony on May 14, 2026, near the Jones family’s longtime residence.