In Loving Memory of Erik Lester Jones                                                                                                                                                                                
Erik Lester Jones, beloved son, brother, family member, friend, broadcaster, writer, and vibrant spirit, was born on October 20, 1970, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to Jim Lester Jones and Ruth Ann Jones.Erik was the only child of his parents’ union, but he was never without family. Some of his fondest early memories were Saturdays spent surrounded by cousins at Grandma Agnes’ house, where family, food, fellowship, laughter, and love became an important part of who he was. Those values remained with Erik throughout his life.

Music was one of Erik’s greatest loves. From an early age, he enjoyed the voices and artistry of performers such as Natalie Cole, Cher, Chaka Khan, and many others. His passion for music eventually became an important part of both his identity and his work in media.

Erik studied Mass Communication/Media Studies at Wilberforce University and later attended Columbia College in Chicago, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Communication. His years in Chicago brought him lifelong friendships and an extended family who loved him dearly.

In 1993, Erik moved to Chicago with his friend Terrill. Chicago quickly became a special chapter of his life. He found family in Callie Tyler and Twyla and developed close friendships through First Corinthians Baptist Church, including his dear friends Benita and Ramona. He loved house music, good food, restaurants, laughter, and, of course, Miss Shirley Brown’s famous sweet potato pie.

Erik had a rare gift for bringing people together. He gave love freely and received it in return. His friendships were genuine, lasting, and often grew into chosen family.

A gifted writer, poet, comedian, and communicator, Erik expressed himself through words and creativity. He self-published My Mind’s Eye, Vol. 1: Life, Pain & Love and became part of Chicago’s poetry community. He also contributed writing and interviews to The Sound Experience, a record store magazine. Two experiences that held special meaning for him were working at Columbia College and singing with the gospel choir, where he met his dear friend Eddie Eason.Erik worked a variety of jobs throughout his life while pursuing his passion for broadcasting and media. During his final period in Chicago, he worked for the Chicago Transit Authority before eventually moving to Los Angeles.

In 2017, Erik achieved a long-held dream when he moved to Los Angeles. There, he formed many lasting friendships and continued pursuing his creative and media ambitions. His perseverance led to the creation of “Talkin’ Shit with Kire!” on the Good News Radio App. His weekly program entertained listeners, kept them informed, and brought plenty of laughter. His years in Los Angeles were filled with concerts, dancing, friendships, laughter, and the many experiences that made him happy.

In 2019, Erik returned to Cincinnati to care for his mother, affectionately known as Mama Ruth. His love and devotion to his mother were evident to everyone around him.

His passion for communication continued to grow. After completing the Ohio Media School, Erik interned at WEBN and later began his own show on WAIF FM 88.3 with his friend Ramona.

Those who knew Erik will remember his enormous heart, his humor, his creativity, his love of music and food, and his remarkable ability to make people feel welcomed. He brought energy and laughter wherever he went and created friendships that stretched across Cincinnati, Chicago, Los Angeles, and beyond.

Erik was preceded in death by his parents, Jim Lester Jones and Ruth Ann Jones, and his brother, Marshall Redmon. He leaves to cherish his memory his sister, DaVorn Nicelle Johnson, along with numerous uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends who loved him deeply.

Erik’s life was a beautiful reflection of the things he cherished most: music, laughter, friendship, creativity, food, family, and love. His friends remember him as kind, selfless, loyal, funny, and always willing to stand in the gap for those he loved. His laughter was infectious, his loyalty was rare, and his friendship was a blessing.

One friend reflected on Erik’s life through the words of the Nat King Cole song “Nature Boy”: “The greatest thing you'll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return.” Those words beautifully capture the love Erik gave to others and the love he received throughout his life.

Though Erik is no longer with us, his music, his laughter, his words, his creativity, and the love he shared will continue to live on in everyone fortunate enough to have known him.

Rest peacefully, Erik.

Your music, your laughter, your love, and your beautiful spirit will never be forgotten.

Family and friends are cordially invited to gather from 10:00 am until 11:00 am, on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at the Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church, 1169 Simmons Avenue, Lincoln Heights (45215). The memorial service will begin at 11:00 am. Repass will immediately follow the service.

 We invite you to take a few moments to share fond memories and words of comfort and condolence with the Jones family. Please click the "Tribute Wall" icon above and to the right, enter the information, and click "Save Post." 

Walker Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the Jones family during this difficult time. Please call 513.251.6200 or visit www.HerbWalker.com for additional information.