Larry Jones

Larry Richard Jones
September 22, 1941 – August 16, 2025

Larry Richard Jones, 83, of Columbus, Ohio, a trailblazing athlete, devoted educator, and community leader, entered eternal rest on August 16, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on September 22, 1941, in Columbus, Ohio, to the late Richard and Helen Jones, Larry grew up in humble beginnings and was the family's only child. He attended Pilgrim Elementary, Champion Junior High, and East High School. His journey to greatness was a testament to his unwavering perseverance. Despite being cut from his junior high basketball team and rarely playing in his early high school years, Larry's refusal to give up led him to earn a starting spot in his senior year, which in turn helped East High achieve a winning season and ultimately secured a scholarship to the University of Toledo.

At Toledo, Larry lettered in three sports: basketball, track, and baseball, earning an incredible eight varsity letters. He became one of the most celebrated athletes in Rocket history, ranking second in all-time scoring and serving as team captain. He graduated with a B.A. in education, later earning a master's degree in education from The Ohio State University and completing doctoral coursework in Education Special Services.

Larry went on to make basketball history. Drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in 1964, he later joined the American Basketball Association (ABA), where he became the first player in ABA history to score 5,000 points. He was a four-time ABA All-Star (1968–1971), a three-time All-ABA First Team selection, and served as the first president of the ABA Players' Association, fighting for fairness, equity, and respect for his fellow athletes. He played for the Philadelphia 76ers, Denver Rockets, the Floridians, Utah Stars, Dallas Chaparrals, and overseas with the Munich Eagles. He later coached at professional and collegiate levels, including serving as an assistant coach for the NBA's Detroit Pistons.

After retiring from professional sports, Larry's influence extended far beyond the court. He dedicated his life to serving the community, working as a Program Administrator and EEO Coordinator for the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction, and teaching as an adjunct professor at The Ohio State University. His commitment to youth empowerment was evident in his founding of the A-TEAM (Achieving Through Education and Mentoring) free basketball camp, which he ran for more than 19 years in partnership with Redeemer Lutheran Church.

He also devoted several years of service to the Marion Franklin Recreation Center, where he left an indelible mark on every person who walked through the doors. Larry had a unique ability to connect with people from all walks of life, especially young African American males. His warmth and wisdom could soften even the hardest hearts, and he always found common ground, offering guidance, humor, and hope to those who needed it most.

A man of deep faith, Larry was a faithful member of First Church of God, where he shared a close bond with his pastor and friend, Bishop Timothy J. Clarke. He actively served in numerous ministries and cherished fellowship, especially with his brothers in the Men of Valor Ministry and the church family in the Food Pantry ministry. Larry was also blessed with a circle of spiritual brothers, including Art Calloway, Judge Richard Letts, Stan Harris, Will Barlow, Terryl "Gino" Davis, Ted Murdaugh, Tom Mitchell, and Minister Patrick Gamble, among many others.

Larry was not merely a sports legend but a man of many endearing qualities. He had a quick wit, a warm laugh, and an infectious sense of humor that brightened every room he entered. He loved manicuring the grass and landscape, brunching with his church brothers, and telling jokes, even during his most challenging times. His humility, generosity, and unwavering ability to uplift others left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.

At the center of Larry's world was his loving wife of 38 years, Wanda Harewood-Jones. Their relationship was filled with laughter, playful banter, and unwavering devotion. Every Sunday, they attended church together wearing coordinating or matching outfits, reflecting their deep connection and harmony. Larry often said that Wanda made him a better man, and he thanked God for her every day. A true romantic at heart, Larry gave Wanda an inspirational note every day and brought her flowers weekly, small gestures that spoke volumes about his love and appreciation for her. She, in turn, loved him dearly, standing faithfully by his side through every triumph and challenge.

Larry was a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, and a steadfast member of the Masonic Order, exemplifying the values of scholarship, leadership, brotherhood, and service throughout his life.

Larry was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Richard and Helen Jones; special aunts Hazel Minor and Jessie Mae; and stepdaughter Twala Jones.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his devoted wife of 38 years, Wanda Harewood-Jones; son, Emerson Macaulay "Mac" Harewood III; daughter, Kristyn Harewood-Wilder (Ernest Wilder); grandchildren Jordan, Madison, and Kohl (children of Twala), Emerson IV and Elijah Harewood (children of Mac), and Kendhyl Wilder (child of Kristyn). He is also survived by his dear cousin, Betty Drummond, who grew up with Larry like a big sister, along with her daughters, Lynette Justice and Julie Crawford, and her son, Reed Collins. Larry's extended family, church family, and countless friends will continue to honor his legacy.

A Celebration of Life will be held at First Church of God in Columbus, Ohio, on September 4, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., where loved ones and the community will gather to honor a man who walked boldly in his purpose and touched the lives of countless others. The overwhelming outpour of love and condolences is a testament to the magnitude of his impact and the extraordinary life he lived. A burial service at Greenlawn Cemetery will follow the funeral service, and a repast will be held at the First Church of God afterward.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Larry R. Jones Game Changer- Be Legendary Scholarship, established through the Achieving Standards of Excellence Foundation (ASOEF), to support educational opportunities for future generations. Donations can be sent to:

ASOEF
1233 S. James Rd.
Columbus, OH 43227
(Please write "In Honor of Larry Jones" on the memo line of your check or money order.)

You may also give online at: https://asoef.org/checkout/donate?donatePageId=5c0f178c6d2a73aee7bb9f8e

When donating online, please select Larry Jones from the drop-down menu.

Donations to support the A-TEAM Summer Basketball Camp, a program Larry cherished for 19 years, are also welcome. Contributions may be sent to:

1555 S. James Rd.
Columbus, OH 43227
(Please note "A-TEAM Larry Jones" on the memo line.)

From humble beginnings to international acclaim, Larry R. Jones embodied perseverance, purpose, and faith. His legacy of excellence, leadership, and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.