Theresa Brent Jones, a beloved figure in the Natchez community, passed away peacefully at home on February 12, 2026, at the age of 67. Surrounded by family, she left behind a legacy marked by her artistic talents and her dedication to her family and community.
Born on September 8, 1958, Theresa was the only daughter of Mary Evelyn Boyd Brent and Donald Early Brent. She graduated from Adams County Christian School in 1975 and later married her high school sweetheart, Roy Augustus Jones, with whom she shared her life and raised three daughters.
Celebrated Artist and Business Owner
Known for her artistic flair, Theresa operated a successful frame and gift shop, Tortoiseshell, located in downtown Natchez. Her store was renowned not just for the beautiful pieces it offered, but also for the warm atmosphere she created, which reflected her vibrant personality. Theresa specialized in painting remarkable watercolors and crafting custom-painted mats, earning her a loyal customer base.
Her passion for the arts extended beyond her business. Theresa’s creative spirit and generous nature endeared her to many, making her a cherished presence in any gathering. She was particularly excited about the annual Boyd/Brent family reunion, a tradition that brought her immense joy each May in Pike County, Mississippi.
A Loving Family Woman
Theresa was immensely proud of her three daughters: Mary Katherine McDonald, Laura Elizabeth Smith, and Rebecca Doris Jones. Her love for her family, both immediate and extended, was a cornerstone of her life. In addition to her daughters, she is survived by eight grandchildren who brought her great joy. They are Mary Kendall Young, Stephen Thomas McDonald III, Caroline Doris Young, Jonathan Hart Smith, Nathan Connor McDonald, Halle Elizabeth Smith, Annabelle Rose Young, and Noah Christopher Young.
She is preceded in death by her parents, her infant brother Gregory Earl Brent, and several other family members, including her father-in-law, Harvey Wade Jones, and her mother-in-law, Doris Weir Higgason Jones. Her passing leaves a significant void in the lives of her numerous friends and family members, who will miss her deeply.
Theresa’s life will be honored with a graveside funeral service on February 18, 2026, at 14:00 at the Natchez City Cemetery. A long-time family friend, Sam Gwin, will officiate the service, which is open to all family, friends, and acquaintances wishing to celebrate her life.
Following the service, she will be laid to rest alongside her parents-in-law in the Jones family plot. Pallbearers will include Travis Smith, Hart Smith, Greg Duncan, Blake Boyd, Reeve Gibson, Lucien Gwin, and Clay Gibson, with Lane Brown and Glenn Foley serving as honorary pallbearers.
In expressing their gratitude, Roy Jones and Theresa’s daughters acknowledged the exceptional care provided by the staff at Merit Health Natchez and Hospice Compassus. They specifically thanked Amy Depta and the emergency department staff, as well as registered nurses Rene Adams, Kristy Murray, and Merrideth Chapman for their compassionate care. The family also expressed appreciation for the dedicated attention of Magen Dollar, RN, and Heather Snelson, RN, among others, who offered outstanding support during Theresa’s final hours.
Theresa Brent Jones will be remembered not only for her artistic contributions but also for the love and kindness she shared with those around her. Her legacy continues through her family and the countless lives she touched throughout her life.
