Darwin B. Jones passed away on November 17, 2025, in Price, Utah. He was born on February 3, 1953, in Price, Utah, to Claude B and Wanda Simmons Jones. Married Cindy Basso on January 8, 1978; they later divorced. Darwin then married Karla Edmondson on December 24, 2006, and they have remained by each other’s sides ever since.
A lifelong outdoorsman, Darwin found joy and purpose in the wild places of the West. He loved hiking, hunting, fishing, and camping, and he spent countless days exploring mountains, rivers, and desert landscapes. He had a special love for fly fishing and took great pride in tying his own flies. As a beekeeper, he cared for his hives with patience and respect, always fascinated by the rhythms of nature.
Darwin had a spirit of adventure that guided him throughout his life. A lifetime member of the Lost Dutchman Mining Association and a dedicated member of the Rocky Mountain Fur Company, he embraced his passions wholeheartedly. He loved black powder muzzleloading and was a regular attendee at mountain man rendezvous in the Uintah Mountains, where he found camaraderie and connection with others who shared his appreciation for tradition and frontier skills.
Prospecting for gold was another of Darwin’s favorite pursuits, and he spent many memorable days searching the earth for its hidden treasures. He was also an avid white-water rafter, tackling rivers including Desolation Canyon, Westwater Canyon, and many other exhilarating stretches of water. The highlight of his adventures was the trip of a lifetime: rafting through the Grand Canyon, an experience he cherished deeply.
Darwin had a natural talent for working with his hands and attended trade school in Salt Lake City, where he developed skills that served him throughout his life, especially during his working years as a coal miner. He was resourceful, capable, and always willing to help others solve a problem or fix what needed fixing.
Animals held a special place in Darwin’s heart, especially dogs. He adopted many over the years, offering each one a loving home and loyal companionship.
He will be deeply missed by all who loved him, and his memory will live on in the wild places he cherished and in the hearts of the many people whose lives he touched.
Survived by his loving wife, Karla; son, Shanti Jones, Wellington; daughter, Deshell Taberna (Pascual), Price; stepchildren, Kennedy E. Byrd, Spokane, WA, Carson A. Byrd, Murray, UT; sister, Judy Jones, Wellington; mother-in-law, Deloris Markakis, Price; sisters-in-law, Melissa (Casey) Hammack, Price, Amy Olson, Price, and brother-in-law, Matthew Markakis (Amy), Grand Junction; along with his beloved grandchildren, Gaiden Jones, Aniya Taberna, Cain Taberna, Conner Jones, and Casey Frank Jones; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Claudette Schade, Grace McCourt, and Buddy Jones.
Funeral service, Monday, November 24, 2025, 2:00 p.m., Mitchell Funeral Home (233 East Main Street, Price, Utah 84501) where the family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. The family will also receive friends Sunday, November 23, from 4:00-6:00, at Mitchell Funeral Home. Interment, Wellington City Cemetery, Wellington, Utah.
Arrangements entrusted to Mitchell Funeral Home of Price and Huntington where friends are always welcome daily and may share memories of Darwin online at www.mitchellfuneralhome.net.