Body of Aneth girl found after three-week search

Funeral services for Anndine “Cookie” Jones, a four-year-old child from Aneth, are scheduled for Saturday, April 13 at 9 a.m. at the Cahone Mesa Church of God.
The Navajo Division of Public Safety reports that the body of Jones was discovered along McElmo Creek on April 3, more than three weeks after she was reported missing from her home near the swollen creek.
A statement by the family indicated that she was found three miles south of the family home by searchers Kevin and Christian Day of Layton, UT on April 3 at 6:15 p.m.
Volunteers began a massive search effort for the child soon after she was reported missing on March 14.
The search effort, which grew to include scores of volunteers and officials, was suspended after three days.
Volunteers continued to search for the child in the subsequent days and weeks.
In a statement, the family said, “Anndine ‘Cookie’ Jones will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.
“She brought such joy to our family, and will forever live on in our hearts and memories.
“We would like to thank everyone near and far who supported our efforts in searching for our baby girl.
“At this time, we ask that everyone please respect our privacy as we grieve together as a family.”
Navajo Police Chief Phillip Francisco said, “This has been a difficult time for everyone involved.
“At this time, we ask for the public’s patience and understanding.
“Details will be limited in the forthcoming days as the investigation continues.
“We ask that the public continue to keep the family in their thoughts and prayers as they navigate through this difficult time.”
The case is being investigated by the Navajo Division of Public Safety and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Anndine is the sixth of seven children of Kendell and Brendina Jones.
The funeral services will include a biker escort beginning at 7:30 a.m. at Ertel Funeral Home in Cortez, CO. Burial is at the Jones family plot.
A family and guest departure reception will be held at the Cahone Mesa Church of God dining hall.
Colors for the services are from the movie “Frozen”: light blue, purplish & pinkish.
Accounts have been set up for funeral expenses at Wells Fargo Bank and through a Go Fund Me account.

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