(1941 – 2021)
Dr. William Ray (Bill) Jones was born in Florence, MS and grew up in Port Gibson where his parents, Raymond and Ryna Jones, ran the “Five and Dime” store downtown. Upon graduation from Port Gibson High School, he entered the Navy and was stationed in Sanford FL.
Jones began his educational journey with a Bachelors Degree from Mississippi State University. He continued his love of learning at Virginia Polytechnic Institute where he obtained a Masters Degree and a Doctorate Degree in Meat Science.
Jones began teaching at Pennsylvania State University. He spent the majority of his career as an educator at Auburn University. He is credited for building one of the most successful and widely recognized meat science programs in the country. The awards and recognitions throughout his career showcased his encouragement of students under his supervision.
Jones was given the 2019 Mentor Recognition Award from the American Meat and Science Association. The engraving reads: “A true mentor in the field of meat and animal sciences, Bill’s personal and professional contributions touched untold lives as a coach, advisor, teacher, leader, and friend. His devotion, compassion, enthusiasm, and dedication are the hall mark characteristics of a man, loved and admired by many, who nurtured the success of others in industry and in life.”
Jones loved the outdoors and instilled that same appreciation for nature in his children. He appreciated the simple things in life. He was there for ball games, music, and dance recitals, in the fishing boats, the deer stands, and the outdoor grill, where for three dollars and fifty cents, he could create a meal fit for kings.
He is survived by his wife, Jan, and his children, David Ray Jones (Cheri), Amy Lynn Jones (Lee Drake), and Angela Jones Kennedy (Mark) and his granddaughter, Saylor.
In recognition of his years of service, the name Dr. William Ray (Bill) Jones is inscribed on the dedicatory plaque of the Extension Memorial Chapel.
Chapel Plaque Inscription Number 659
