HARVEY & BERNICE JONES

Harvey and Bernice Jones are names that are familiar to almost anyone in Northwest Arkansas, and in fact, the State. Almost as familiar as the names are the stories of their willingness to give and their support of friends and neighbors.

Harvey and Bernice Jones were an extremely integral part in the growth and success of Springdale and Northwest Arkansas.  For example, when Springdale could not afford to keep the schools open in the 1930s, Harvey rented a church, hired a teacher and paid for school supplies so they could continue teaching the children.  In 1938, Harvey married Bernice Young.   Bernice, a school teacher, had a great love for children and throughout her life worked to support and improve the lives of many children. 

Before his death in 1989, Harvey was successful in establishing and running the largest private trucking business in the United States, Jones Truck Lines.  Despite his enormous success, Harvey continued to focus on improving his local community through his efforts and generosity.  He was instrumental in the development of the city's first hospital, Springdale Memorial Hospital, and served on the board for 47 years, nurturing and providing financial support through the hospital expansion into Northwest Medical Center, and growth of their medical programs. Harvey also served many years on the local bank board providing leadership and advice in the financial stability of the city and many families.

Bernice was a lead supporter for the Children's Library Fund, Arkansas Children's Hospital, the Baptist Youth Ranch, and various other children's learning and disability programs that vastly improve young lives. Bernice also shared Harvey's love for their community. She also served on the hospital board, started the hospital's auxiliary and supported several of the local ministries.

Throughout the lives of Harvey and Bernice Jones, giving was a key element. Six years after Harvey’s death, Bernice gave their legacy gift when she founded The Harvey and Bernice Jones Center for Families, now fondly known as The Jones Center.  With this gift, Bernice’s vision was to continue forever what she and Harvey worked to achieve each day, namely "to serve families, strengthen community and glorify God." 

 Serving Springdale: Harvey and Bernice Jones

Springdale's Founding Families, a 2010 Telly Award recipient