Lerna Dorado Jones

Lerna Dorado Jones, 74, of Duluth, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on October 16, 2026, surrounded by the love of the family she so fiercely cherished.

Lerna was born on March 15, 1952, in the beautiful island province of Romblon, Philippines, to the late Basilio Sulat Dorado and Alfonsa Prado Dorado. Growing up near the water, Lerna developed a lifelong love for the ocean and fishing, alongside the core values that would define her character: family first, a tireless work ethic, unconditional love and compassion.

In late 1975, Lerna’s life changed forever when she met a young U.S. Navy Sailor named Russell Jones. It was love at first sight. The two were married just a few months later on a unique and memorable Leap Year day—February 29, 1976. Together, they shared a beautiful, devoted marriage of over 50 years.

After marrying, Lerna moved to Florida with Russell, where they began their family. They welcomed their first son, Michael, in September 1982, and their second son, Kevin, in September 1987. They eventually made their home in Duluth, Minnesota, where Lerna spent many beautiful years surrounded by family and nature.

Lerna poured her heart into her home and her boys. She was the ultimate “number one cheerleader” at every single sports game, always standing proud. She expressed her love through cooking, ensuring her family was always well-fed with nurturing, home-cooked meals.

When she wasn’t caring for her family, Lerna could be found in her garden, tending to her plants with a special, nurturing touch that made everything bloom. She also loved being out on the water fishing, whether for sustenance, sport, or friendly competition to see if she could out-fish her beloved “Rusty.” Lerna also had a soft spot for her loyal “pups" and cared for them throughout her life: Bandit, Jake, Oban, and George.

Above all else, Lerna had a deep, unshakeable relationship with her Lord and Savior. Her faith was her anchor, and she gently pointed her family toward God’s grace during both the celebratory high points of life and the challenging, difficult times. Her spiritual legacy remains a guiding light for her children and grandchildren.

Lerna is preceded in death by her parents and parent-in-laws, Russell Sr and Francis Jones. Survived by her husband, Russell D. Jones, Jr.; sons, Michael (Leah) Jones and Kevin (Samantha) Jones; grandchildren, Stella and Hudson Jones.

A Celebration of Lerna's Life will be held at 3:00pm on Tuesday, October 27, 2026 at Grace Baptist Church, 4810 S Bear Paw Rd, Iron River, WI. Burial will be held at 11am on Wednesday, October 28, 2026 at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Saginaw.