Friend remembers beloved realtor who was shot to death by roommate in N. Harris County, docs show

HARRIS COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) -- A realtor, who many said went the extra mile for his client, was found shot to death inside a garage at his own home.

"I was devastated. I feel like everybody who knew him lost a family member that was dear to them," Jahara Benefield said, as he recalled the last conversation he had with his close friend, Kelvin Jones, 52.

Benefield, a mortgage lender, said he and Jones, a realtor, became friends over the past few years. Earlier in the week, they were working together to help a client.

"I told him we can do it in the morning, and the morning never came," Benefield said.

The Harris County Sheriff's Office reported that Jones was found shot to death Friday evening in the garage of his home on Thornwilde Park Lane in north Harris County.

Investigators said the person responsible is his 27-year-old roommate, Jonah McQueen.

According to court documents, McQueen allegedly shot Jones after the two argued at their home.

"When I found out it was the actual truth, I was devastated because he helped so many people," Benefield said. "Nobody could imagine hurting him."

The Houston Association of Realtors website lists Jones as a member of the "Mis Amigos Realty Group," serving clients throughout the Houston area.

Benefield told ABC13 that for Jones, real estate was more than just a job.

"He helped turn dreams into keys. He was very instrumental in helping with programs, Section 8, down payment assistance," Benefield said. "He was focusing on people and getting them into the best deals for them to be in the programs that fit them economically and, more importantly, people that didn't get help from others."

Benefield said Jones supported him when he needed it most. Now, he hopes to support Jones' family during this difficult time.

"When my sister passed away, he came and supported me and my family like no other," Benefield said. "Like he had been a part of my life for my whole life. He was there every step of the way."

McQueen appeared in court Saturday afternoon and is now charged with murder.