Cameron Thomas Jones, age 12, passed away far too soon, but peacefully in the loving arms of his father, Erik Jones, and mother, Kelly Jones, on July 9, 2026, at 3:27 p.m.

"Cam," as so many lovingly called him, was born on January 5, 2014, at 1:45 a.m. And then, too, he entered the world peacefully in the loving arms of his parents.

Cameron was preceded in death by his grandfather, Thomas LeStrange. He is survived by his loving parents, Erik and Kelly Jones; his sisters, Claire and Olivia Jones; grandparents Barbara Jones, Pauline LeStrange, and Wayne Jones (Cindy); uncles Matthew Jones (Laura) and Patrick LeStrange (Hyun-Ji); cousins Maelyn Carr and Huhn LeStrange; and many other family members, friends, teachers, coaches, teammates, and loved ones who were blessed to know him.

Cam was the first to admit that he had the best two little sisters in the world—Claire (11) and Olivia (8). Unsurprisingly, as they grieve his loss, his sisters remember him simply as "the best big brother in the world." Whether attending Claire's concerts and performances, Olivia's travel soccer matches, or any of their sporting events, Cam was always their biggest cheerleader. While they attended elementary school together, Cameron, Claire, and Olivia would proudly greet one another with hugs in the hallways—even when everyone was watching.

When Cam came into the world, he made Erik and Kelly parents for the first time. He was also the first grandchild on both sides of the family, and many of Erik and Kelly's closest friends viewed Cam as the first child born into their circle of lifelong friendships. The wonderful young man we all knew and loved was shaped by the countless people who welcomed him into the world and took great joy in watching him grow. He was cherished as a first son, first grandson, first nephew, and first friend's child, and he returned that love many times over.

Cam was a bright light in his family, his school, his community, and every team on which he played. He was positive, eager to learn, fiercely competitive yet coachable, and genuinely grateful for the many people who influenced his life. From family members, teachers, and coaches to friends, classmates, and teammates, Cameron appreciated those who helped him become the remarkable young man he was.

Sports were a huge part of Cameron's life. He loved being an athlete, and the lessons he learned through sports helped shape his character in extraordinary ways. Cameron played soccer for the Maine-Endwell Soccer Club and the Binghamton Flash, and he was excited to join the Maine-Endwell Modified Soccer Team this fall. He also played baseball for Maine-Endwell Little League, the Small Town Walkoffs, and the Southern Tier Stingers.

Through these teams, Cam built countless friendships and created memories that will live on forever. His teammates became some of his closest friends, and each of them will forever hold a piece of his heart. In his final baseball game, Cameron was called upon late in the game and proudly took the field, doing what he loved most—being part of a team.

Cam lived life to the fullest. We were blessed to have him for twelve unforgettable years, and we will forever be grateful for every adventure we shared together. Every day with Cameron was filled with action, laughter, and love. He was a little man who lived big, played hard, and loved deeply. He was an old soul—thoughtful, compassionate, and wise far beyond his years.

If Cameron could leave us with one message, it would be simple: "Play on."

Fly high, our special boy. You will be loved, missed, and remembered forever.

In lieu of flowers, Cameron would wholeheartedly encourage donations to the following organizations, each of which had a meaningful and positive impact on his life and the lives of his family:

Discovery Center of the Southern Tier

Mercy House

Maine-Endwell Little League

Maine-Endwell Soccer Club

UHS Foundation

Upstate Golisano Children's Hospital

YMCA of Broome County

The family would like everyone to dress brightly and comfortably for Cameron's viewing and funeral services on Thursday and Friday.

Cam would want us to dress as though we were cheering on our favorite sports team or heading out for a round of golf.

Children are especially encouraged to wear jerseys from any team they played on with cam, or from their favorite sports team. Some of cam's favorite teams were the Buffalo Bills, New York Yankees and Arsenal.

With Cam's wishes in mind, and given the warm temperatures expected this week traditional suit-and-tie attire is not required. Please wear whatever feels comfortable while celebrating and honoring Cameron's life.

A Funeral Mass will be offered at the Church of the Holy Family, 3600 Phyllis Street, Endwell, Friday July 17, 2026 at 10 a.m.

The family will receive friends at the Church of the Holy Family, Thursday July 16, 2026 from 1 to 4 p.m.