Purnel L. Jones Sr., 65

WILMINGTON - Purnel L. Jones Sr., of Wilmington, departed this life on April 16, 2009, following an extended illness. He was 65. He was born Aug. 4, 1943, son of the late Purnel and Agnes "Dolly" Jones. He graduated from William Penn High School where he was renowned as a top track athlete specializing in distance events. Perhaps his early love of racing led to the passion of his life--harness horses. He began training horses in the late 1960s and raced at most tracks on the east coast during his career. He enjoyed his greatest success between the late 1970s and mid 1980s when he became one of the leading trainers in the Delaware Valley racing at Brandywine and Liberty Bell. During his time in harness racing, he established many friendships which he often reflected on later in life. He is survived by three sons, Purnel L. Jones, Jr., Greg Jones, and Matthew Jones. Also surviving are his grandson, Garrett Jones and his brother, Wayne Jones. He was preceded in death by his brother, Kenneth Jones. A funeral service will be 2 p.m. Tuesday, April 21, in the chapel of Gracelawn Memorial Park, 2220 N. DuPont Parkway, New Castle, where visitation will begin at 1 p.m. Interment will follow in the adjoining memorial park. To sign guest register, visit www.spicermullikin.com.