Coach Hershel Jones

Coach Jerry Hershel Jones, 89, of Jeffersonville, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Monday morning, January 8, 2024. He played an instrumental role in the success of the University of Louisville Men's Basketball program, both on and off the sidelines, for over 28 years.

Upon retirement, Coach Jones became involved with Coach Chad Gilbert and the Jeffersonville High School Girl's Basketball program, helping them achieve their first ever state championship during the 2011-12 season. He also had an open invitation on the bench from Coach Scotty Davenport and the Bellarmine Knights, as he rooted for their program's growing success.

Along with his passion for coaching and shaping the lives of his players, Coach Jones was an avid golfer and longtime member of the Jeffersonville Elks Club. He also enjoyed playing cards with his friends, making an occasional visit to the casino and watching any and every sport.

He was born on January 24, 1934 in Gary, Indiana, to Hershel and Eleanor (Catic) Jones. In addition to his parents, Coach Jones was preceded in death by his wife, Beverly; and twin brother, Ronald.

Coach Jones is survived by his daughters, Sherry Jones, Nancy Wilding, Kathy Maertz (Bernard); grandchildren, Brooke Staples, Diana Prentice (Nick), Nicole Upton (Michael), Morgan Maertz (Gil); great-grandchildren, Kaden Cluckey, Emily Prentice, Keri Prentice; sister-in-law, Juanita Jones; son-in-law, Oliver Wilding; and adopted family members of Bob and Kathy Snelling.

Visitation will be from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 14, 2024, at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions (3309 Ballard Lane, New Albany) and on Monday after 11:00 a.m. His funeral service will take place at 1:00 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home. He will be laid to rest privately at Walnut Ridge Cemetery in Jeffersonville.

Contributions in Coach Jones' memory may be made to the Denny Crum Scholarship Foundation (UofL Foundation, Inc., c/o PNC Lockbox, PO Box 772050, Chicago, IL 60677).

Coach Jones' service will be livestreamed at the scheduled service time. Click here to view the service.

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