Students and faculty gather to celebrate the legacy of Coach Ernest L. Jones, a beloved figure in Leon County Schools.
The Leon County community mourns the passing of Ernest L. Jones, a beloved educator and coach, known for his commitment to students and the school system. With a career spanning 35 years in education, Jones impacted numerous lives as a teacher and administrator. His legacy continues to inspire both students and colleagues, highlighted by a special day in his honor. His funeral will take place on January 11, 2025, as the community remembers a true legend in education and athletics.
The city of Tallahassee, Florida, recently experienced a profound loss with the passing of a true community pillar, Ernest L. Jones, affectionately known by many as Rock. He left this world peacefully at the age of 82, on January 6, 2025, surrounded by the warmth of home and family.
Born in Green Cove Springs, Florida, Jones was the youngest of eight children to Frank and Rosa Jones. From an early age, his talents shone brightly, particularly on the basketball court, where he was a notable player at Dunbar High School. His passion for sports was not only a personal pursuit but also a stepping stone that eventually led him to a greater calling in education.
Following high school, Jones demonstrated his bravery by enlisting in the US Army, serving as a combat veteran. His military service not only defined his character but also instilled a deep sense of discipline that he would carry into his later endeavors.
After returning from service, he attended Florida A&M University (FAMU), where he graduated with honors in 1970. Jones’s commitment to lifelong learning didn’t stop there; he went on to earn two master’s degrees, making him a true advocate for education and intellectual growth.
In 1972, a blind date changed everything for him when he met his future wife, Dr. Shirley A. Jones, in Miami. This meeting blossomed into a beautiful marriage that lasted nearly 48 years, filled with love and shared aspirations. The couple was blessed with two daughters, An’Dreas and Monique, and a grandson, Aun’Darrious, who they cherished deeply.
For an impressive 35 years, Jones dedicated his professional life to the Leon County School System. His journey took him through numerous schools in Tallahassee, where he served as an educator, coach, and administrator. His roles included leadership positions at various institutions like Rickards, Deer Lake, Fairview, Raa, Belle Vue, and Second Chance. Each position was marked by his unwavering commitment to foster educational excellence and to support at-risk students.
Jones’s impact was undeniable and reached far beyond the classroom. His dedication earned him recognition as Leon County’s “Educator of the Year” during FAMU’s 1990 Commencement Exercises, showcasing the respect and admiration he garnered throughout his career.
On June 3, 2023, the city proudly recognized Ernest “Rock” Jones Day, a reflection of his lasting influence on the community. His legacy continued to inspire many, including students and colleagues who gathered to celebrate his contributions to both education and athletics.
Ernest L. Jones has left an indelible mark on all who knew him, and the Rickards High School community, among others, is filled with profound gratitude for his service. A viewing will be held on January 10, 2025, from 11 A.M. to 6 P.M., followed by a wake service. His funeral services are scheduled for January 11, 2025, at the Old West Florida Enrichment Center, with a burial at Culley’s MeadowWood Memorial Park.
Within our hearts and memories, the legacy of Coach Jones, as he was affectionately called, will forever shine bright. His commitment to bettering the lives of countless students through education is a testament to what it means to be a true leader and mentor. May his spirit continue to inspire generations to come.
Leon County Schools Remember Ernest L. Jones’ Impact on Education
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