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William B. Jones Ambassador
Ambassador Jones was born in Los Angeles California to a leading African American family. His grandfather was a principal in Georgia before he moved the family to Los Angeles. As a University of California Los Angeles senior, he was awarded a fellowship to study in England at the University of Southampton. As the only African American in his class at University of Southern California Law School, he was on Law Review and President of his Class. After practicing law in Los Angeles for 10 years, he was recruited by President Kennedy to join the State Department. He served as Deputy Assistant Secretary of State before being appointed, the US Minister to UNESCO in Paris, France. After four years in Paris, he was appointed US Ambassador to Haiti,. During his more than 20 years as a career foreign service officer, he traveled to more than 63 countries and represented the US in diplomatic missions around the world. He was a Trustee at Hampden Sydney, and Ambassador in Residence at University of Virginia and Hampton. He has received many honors including Distinguished Alumnus awards from both USC Law School and UCLA. He will be greatly missed and leaves three children, Lisa Jones Gentry, Esq, Stephanie A. Marioneaux, MD, and Walter C. Jones, Esq. and five grandchildren. A Celebration of Life is planned to honor the life of this great diplomatic leader and icon.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Praying he is resting in peace.
Theresa Johnson
Work
June 12, 2023
Offering continued deepest sympathy to the Jones' family and praying Ambassador Jones is resting in peace.
Theresa A. Johnson
Work
June 8, 2022
Sorry I missed this notice last June.
Bill was my mentor.
If only I had learned to have half of his elegance.
Thanks to his family for letting him elevate and dignify everyone he met at Hampden-Sydney College.
James Pontuso
April 27, 2022
On behalf of the USC Gould Alumni Association, I want to extend our heartfelt sympathies to the Jones family. The Ambassador was an inspiration to the Trojan community around the world. He will be missed dearly.
Nicole Stark
School
March 21, 2022
Just heard the sad, shocking news of this wonderful man's death. We worked together at the State Department for many years. He was my mentor and colleague. He was responsible for my successful 45-year career at the State Department. My deepest sympathy and heartfelt love to his family, all of whom I know well. Hoping he is resting in peace. Would love to hear from Joanne at 301-449-8626.
Theresa Johnson & Family
Work
July 16, 2021
We extend sincere condolences to Ambassador Jones' family and friends. May he Rest in Eternal Peace. The Association of Black American Ambassadors
Ambassador Mattie R. Sharpless (Ret.)
Friend
June 17, 2021
We extend sincere condolences to the family and friends of our colleague Ambassador William B. Jones. May he Rest in Eternal Peace.
The Association of Black American Ambassadors
Ambassador Mattie R. Sharpless (Ret.)
Friend
June 17, 2021
My deepest condolences to the family. A truly great diplomat.
Ambassador (retired) Charles Ray
Friend
June 17, 2021
I'm very sorry to learn of the passing of Mr. Jones. May the God of all comfort be with the family at this time.
Jones family
June 14, 2021
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