Angels Camp, CA…Darren Vernon Jones of Angels Camp passed away on 08/06/2020. He was born in Oakdale, CA to Mary Louise Smith Jones and Lester Vernon Jones. Darren is survived by his wife Brenda, his son Tim Jones, his mother Mary Louise Jones Ardito, all of Angels Camp; his son Travis Rankin of Georgia, and his brother Brian Jones (Terrie) of Carson City, NV.

Darren spent the early years of his childhood in Livermore and Pleasanton, CA where he attended both elementary school and high school. He also attended Bret Harte High School for one year and later enrolled in auto mechanic classes at Columbia College. On October 8, 1995 he married his wife of nearly 25 years, Brenda Payton and became “Dad” to his stepson Travis, born 10/23/91. Their son Tim Jones was born on 11/02/97.

Darren was employed by Arnold Rental at the Arnold location before he and the family moved to Gardnerville, NV in 1996 where Darren worked for both Les Schwab and Midas. Upon their return to Calaveras County in 2000 he once again went to work for Arnold Rental at their Angels Camp location. Darren spent the last 11 years employed at Bret Harte High School in maintenance and grounds keeping.

Darren loved fishing, NASCAR, golfing, softball and camping, but most of all he loved his family. Darren could always be counted on to be of service to others and always with a fantastic smile that would light up the darkest moments.

A celebration of Darren’s life will be held as soon as it is allowed. Donations may be made to the Darren Jones Family Benefit through Facebook.