A tribute to the lasting impact of a devoted educator and community leader.
Leon County, Florida has lost a prominent education advocate, Ernest L. Jones, known for his dedication to improving schools and helping at-risk students. With a career spanning over 35 years in the Leon County School System, he positively influenced the lives of many young people. Ernest’s legacy continues through his family and the community he enriched. A funeral service is set for January 11, 2025, where friends and family will celebrate his contributions to education and the joy he brought to those around him.
Leon County, Florida, has lost one of its most devoted champions for education, Ernest L. Jones, lovingly known by many as Rock, Buddha, Coach, and Vietnam Slim. He peacefully passed away at home on January 6, 2025, at the age of 82, surrounded by his family. His departure leaves a significant void, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations.
Ernest was born and raised in Green Cove Springs, Florida, as the youngest of eight children to Frank and Rosa Jones. Standing tall at an impressive 6’7”, he was a standout basketball player at Dunbar High School, where he showcased his athletic skills and passion for the game.
After high school, he made the brave decision to enlist in the U.S. Army, serving as a combat veteran during a tumultuous time in our nation’s history. Following his military service, Ernest pursued higher education at Florida A&M University (FAMU), where he graduated with honors in 1970. He didn’t stop there; he went on to earn two master’s degrees, demonstrating his commitment to lifelong learning and the pursuit of knowledge.
In 1972, a blind date in Miami led him to meet his future wife, Dr. Shirley A. Jones. The two enjoyed a loving marriage that lasted an impressive 48 years. They built a family together that included their two daughters, An’Dreas and Monique, and a grandson, Aun’Darrious, spreading joy in the lives of many.
Ernest’s career in education was nothing short of remarkable. For 35 years, he held various roles within the Leon County School System as an educator, coach, and administrator. For an astounding 32 years, he served in a key administrative role in public schools across Tallahassee, including notable institutions like Rickards, Deer Lake, Fairview, Raa, Belle Vue, and Second Chance.
He retired in 2006, but not before making a profound impact, especially on at-risk students. Ernest devoted his heart and soul to improving public education, working tirelessly for over 50 years. His commitment even led him to author a book called “An Accidental Library: The Storied Career of Ernest L. Jones – One of Florida’s Education Pioneers,” reflecting his dedication to the field and the many challenges he overcame.
Throughout his illustrious career, Ernest received numerous accolades, including being named Leon County’s “Educator of the Year” during FAMU’s 1990 Commencement Exercises. His commitment to education was recognized even by the community, with a special day in his honor, Ernest “Rock” Jones Day, celebrated on June 3, 2023.
As the funeral service approaches, set for 2 PM on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at the Old West Florida Enrichment Center, friends and family are reminded of the profound impact Ernest had on their lives and the community. The viewing will be open on January 10, 2025, from 11 AM to 6 PM at Strong and Jones Funeral Home, followed by a wake service. Those who cannot attend in person can view the service via YouTube at “Ernest ‘Rock’ Jones.”
Ernest L. Jones leaves behind not just a grieving family, including his beloved wife Shirley and his daughters; he also leaves a community forever grateful for his years of service and commitment to education. His mighty spirit and unwavering dedication to bettering the lives of young people will remain a guiding light for Leon County Schools for years to come.
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