William Edward “Ed” Jones
Alabaster

William Edward “Ed” Jones, 70, aka The Peanut Man and The Mattress Man of Alabaster passed away surrounded by his loving family Tuesday, April 19.

Ed’s first career was in the grocery business, working primarily with Liberty and Bruno’s, as well as several small local businesses in Shelby County. During this time he became an ordained minister and performed outreach to the community through tent meetings and a local radio broadcast. He maintained his ministerial license throughout his entire life, performing numerous marriages and funerals for friends and family.

After 28 years in the grocery business, Ed changed careers and became a sales representative for Bassett bedding division, and later Badcock & More, covering the entire Southeast territory. He became fondly known as The Mattress Man because of his vast knowledge of the bedding industry.

During his travels in Georgia, he befriended the uncle of former President Jimmy Carter, who taught him the art of frying peanuts. He quickly adopted the practice and soon became known as The Peanut Man, especially for his Cajun Peanuts and Habanero Hot Peanuts.

Toward the end of his career and throughout his retirement, Ed and his wife, Andrea, served together in a Santa & Mrs. Clause ministry, telling children about the true meaning of Christmas.

Ed is survived by his loving wife of 28 years, Andrea Dunnam Burgess Jones; sons, Joey T. Jones (Melinda) and Ronnie W. Jones (Laura); step-son, Dr. Stephen W. Burgess (Pamela); grandchildren, Madeline, Savannah, Jacob, Payton, and McKenzie Jones, Jessica Burgess, Alli Miller, and Blake Grdjan; great-grandchild, Grayson Riebe; brother, Rev. Bobby Jones (Carolyn); half-brother, Jimmy Champion (Bonnie); and half-sisters, Betty Dailey and Francis Colburn.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William McClain and Evelyn Champion Jones, and nine half-brothers and half-sisters.

A celebration of life was held at 3 p.m. Saturday, April 23, at Pelham Church of God. The graveside service followed at Cedar Grove Cemetery, Maylene.

Charter Funeral Home directed.