Sam Beletso Jones

Long time Cahone Mesa, Utah resident Sam Beletso Jones passed on November 12, 2020 at his home with family at his bedside. He was born September 23, 1929 in Cahone Mesa to Tom and Jessie (West) Beletso. Although he resided in Cahone Mesa, Cortez, CO was his home base for business and McElmo Creek Canyon Road was his connection as these residents were his lifelong neighbors. Sam traveled and migrated for many years as a miner. When he finally ended his mining career, he embraced his passion for cattle ranching.
Although he was a private man, he was well learned in local affairs and donated to local causes. He was a man of few words but encouraging and elated to hear the happenings and travels of his son Tony, nieces, nephews, and grandniece/grandnephews (aka grandchildren). Age and mobility had limited his participation in ranching, but he stood steadfast in teaching/watching the next generation carry forward his legacy of ranching and lay of the land (including gardening tips). At his life’s edge, he enjoyed story/reading time with his great-grandson Tyler and ending those moments with a piece of shared chocolate. He will be a ‘Grandpa’ greatly missed.
Sam was preceded in death by his parents, Tom and Jessie (West) Beletso; sisters, Emma Billie and Rose Mark; brothers, Harry B. Jones, Arthur B. Jones and Jimmy Jones. He is survived by his sons, Anthony ‘Tony’ Beletso Jones of Cortez, CO and Ross Mills of Kirtland, NM; his sister, Irene M. Ben of Aneth, UT; his niece, Arlene M. Lee (Henry); his grandchildren, Alexandria T. Duane (Justin) of Cahone Mesa, Colten W. Lee of Cahone Mesa and Hank D. Lee of Cahone Mesa; his great-grandson, Tyler H. Duane of Cahone Mesa; and many nieces and nephews, and extended family. Additionally, the family would like to thank the nursing staff who cared for him.
Due to COVID-19 safety precautions, there will be a private immediate family only viewing prior to the graveside service. Friends and relatives are welcome to pay their respects and condolences at the graveside service scheduled at 1:00PM – 2:00PM at Cortez Cemetery; or at the Lewis Arriola Community Center with a take-out style dinner following the graveside services. The family respectfully asks attendees to practice social distancing, wear face masks and adhere to Colorado State ordered health and safety practices. We would like to keep our elders and health-compromised individuals safe.