About Us

My name is J.B. Jones, and my work is rooted in a deep respect for history, memory, and place. I am passionate about researching family histories, preserving cemeteries, and telling the stories of those who came before us — stories that deserve care, accuracy, and dignity.

Because cemetery preservation is often misunderstood, transparency, research, and adherence to established preservation recommendations are central to this work. Every project begins with documentation, education, and a commitment to methods that prioritize minimal intervention and respect for original materials. 

Through careful research, documentation, and hands-on stewardship, I work to raise awareness about the condition of historic cemeteries and monuments, many of which face deterioration through time, neglect, or lack of resources. Preservation begins with understanding, and my goal is to encourage thoughtful care rather than silence or loss. 

Through The Respect and Restore Society, a volunteer-based effort, we have worked on numerous monument and cemetery projects across North Mississippi. All work is approached with humility, transparency, and a commitment to responsible preservation principles. This work is voluntary and done as an honor — not for profit — with the hope that education and example will inspire others to care for these sacred spaces.

In addition to cemetery preservation, I am the author of three published books focused on history and storytelling. I also assist individuals and families with genealogical research and historical documentation.

If you are interested in a monument or cemetery project, historical research assistance, joining our group, or learning more about my books, please feel free to reach out at jbjones@respectandrestore.com. 

Our Mission – Why This Work Matters

We do this work because the stories held in our cemeteries matter, and because neglect should never be mistaken for respect. We believe preservation begins with awareness — with seeing, documenting, and understanding the conditions of these sacred places before they are lost to time and silence.

We approach every project with humility, research, and care. We choose methods and products thoughtfully, guided by established preservation recommendations and a commitment to do no harm. We document our work transparently so others may learn, ask questions, and become stewards themselves.

This work is voluntary and always has been. We give our time, resources, and own money freely because it is an honor to care for places where lives are remembered. We do not profit from this work, nor do we seek recognition — only understanding, respect, and preservation.

We believe we in the present are responsible not for rewriting the past, but for safeguarding what remains of it. Our goal is not perfection or control, but stewardship — to slow deterioration where possible, to educate where we can, and to ensure these spaces are treated with the dignity they deserve.