David Jones with his wife and three children. A GoFundMe account and meal train have been set up to help the family (links at end of story).
Centre College athletics director Brad Fields always considered David Jones a “joyful and genuine man,” a view shared by anyone I know connected with Centre College.
That’s why news Tuesday that the 36-year-old Jones had died unexpectedly stunned not only those on the Danville campus but anyone who knew Jones.
“We’re saddened to share the loss of men’s golf coach, David Jones, last night. David will always be remembered as an incredible colleague, coach, father, husband, mentor and more.”
That’s the message Centre athletics posted on social media Wednesday afternoon about Jones. He had served as Centre’s interim golf coach for the men in 2016 and he became the head women’s coach later that year. He became the head men’s coach again in 2019.
Jones, a 2005 Southwestern High School graduate, coaches two All-Americans — Carson Riley and Dakota Jarman — and one Southern Athletic Association champion — Jill Edgington.
The Centre community reacted quickly after Jones’ passing with these Twitter messages:
— Women’s golf: “He brought joy to his program and loved every player and person he interacted with. He will be missed not only in the golf program but by those who knew him.”
— Women’s soccer: “We will miss you Dave. Your support for CWS has had such an impact on all of us. You always put yourself second and your family, friends, and colleagues first. We were able to learn so much about life from you! Centre is truly a better place because of you!”
— Field hockey: “David was a truly wonderful coach, friend, and human being. He cared deeply for his community and helped everyone in need. He demonstrated selflessness and led by example. He will be missed by all.”
Jenelle Anthony Downs, assistant athletic director and former field hockey coach, posted she was struggling to find the right words to describe her feelings.
“David would drop anything for anyone that ever needed help at a moment’s notice. The true definition of a selfless individual with the biggest heart. Beyond heartbroken and praying for him and his family,” Downs posted.
That prompted a perfect Jones memory from Centre College men’s basketball coach Greg Mason. He recalled when his team got stranded on I-75 during a snowstorm trying to get back to Danville and was stuck on the bus in traffic gridlock for hours.
“He jumped in a van to help rescue us. Also brought lots of Zaxby’s chicken sandwiches for a very dejected and hungry team. David was a good man,” Mason said.
Several of his friends from across the state also shared their feelings for Jones on social media and I talked to a lot of folks in Danville today who “sort of” knew Jones and they all mentioned his smile and happy personality.
David leaves behind his wife, Kotey, and three children: Kinzley, 6; Kevin, 2; and Kyndall, three months old.
If you would like to help the family and honor David Jones, Centre College has set up a GoFundMe account with the goal of raising $100,000. Go to gofund.me/c1aa11d5.
A Meal Train signup has also been created to support the family at mealtrain.com/trains/w90zvw.
