Cruisin' for a Cause

Under Neil Jones’ leadership, the Talimena Rally Cruisin’ for St. Jude motorcycle rally has raised half a million dollars
By Tony Basso

photo by shane darby.

After decades of labor, toil, and careful planning, many Americans spend their golden years in leisure. Some migrate to a beach, others to the mountains, while some stay close to family and friends. And then there are those who dedicate their newfound free time to improving the world, people like Neil Jones. 

A native of Hooks, Texas, Neil retired from Coca-Cola after spending 25 years with the company. He spends his time chasing his 11 grandkids, enjoying the scenery and sunshine from his home on Lake Hamilton, and organizing Talimena Rally Cruisin’ for St. Jude, an annual motorcycle rally dedicated to raising funds for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. 

The idea for the benefit rally, held annually over Memorial Day weekend in Talimena, Arkansas, originally came to Neil when he passed through the area on a charity ride organized by a local motorcycle club.

“In 2001, a motorcycle charity ride advocating for children in Texarkana hosted by Players Bar and Grill was formed. The ride was organized by the late R.J. Johnson and Players Bar and Grill owner Tony Welch,” Neil said. “I belonged to a club in Waskom, Texas, and we joined them on a ride through Talimena. After seeing the beauty of the area, it dawned on me that I could organize a rally of my own to help children in need.”

Later that year, Neil held the inaugural Talimena Rally to benefit local children. With just a few dozen people in attendance, this gathering sparked a fire that would eventually unite people nationwide to support a greater cause. 

“In 2012, I saw a commercial for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and decided to rebrand the rally for their benefit,” he said. “It was then that the rally became Talimena Rally Cruisin’ for St. Jude. Since then, our rally has hosted thousands of people from across the nation and raised over $500,000. This rally started with 30 people riding through the mountains and eating cold pizza after a long day of riding and grew into a three-day, two-night event with catered meals, live entertainment, and police-escorted rides.”

2023 was a record year for Neil and crew. In just three days, they hosted over 400 people and raised over $80,000. Jones never expected the financial impact produced. 

“You know, it amazes me. It shocks me. I never would have thought it would get this big”, Neil admitted. “I mean, if you stop and think—we raised that much money in just three days? Who could imagine that? I don’t set any goals for the rally; the sky’s the limit. The more money we raise, the more we can give the kids, and that is where every penny goes.”

Talimena Rally Cruisin’ for St. Jude would not be possible without the help of many volunteers, including Neil’s wife, Carol Jones. 

“My wife has been a godsend,” he said. “I make the calls and connections, and then she takes over. She handles the registrations, food, and whatever has to be done to make it a success. We could not have done any of this without her or the many men and women who show up each year ready to help.”

Mike with his wife, carol. submitted photo.

Over the years, Neil has had the opportunity to visit families and children under treatment at St. Jude, and he holds each encounter close to his heart. 

“Years ago, a kid joined us at one of our rallies. He had cancer all over his body and was not given much of a chance,” Neil recalled. “Through God and St. Jude, he rode his own bike two years ago in our rally and shared his story with us all—this time cancer-free. There was not a dry eye around, and we were all so thankful for him joining us.”

Despite spending immeasurable time organizing Talimena Rally Cruisin’ for St. Jude, Neil and his wife still find time to pursue other passions. 

“I love to umpire local baseball games, just to help the kids,” Neil said. “Some of the athletes have never played the game before, so it is great to help out where I can. My passions center around children. To tell the truth, I’m just a big kid myself. I have always tried to enjoy my life, and I get to do just that. When we are not at ball games, we spend time with our 11 grandkids and take our boat out on Lake Hamilton to enjoy nature.”

Neil and Carol have dubbed the 2024 rally “The Last Ride,” as they have decided to step away from the event as organizers. Their successors are in place, however, and the rally is set to continue in 2025 and beyond.

“I would love to see it grow in numbers and donations to continue supporting this cause,” he said. “When you get my age, you can look back at a full life. The kids we are helping have not even had the chance to begin life. That keeps me going, and I hope this rally will continue for years to come.” 

Those interested can find more information in the Cruisin’ for St. Jude group on Facebook.