Sheriff Jones suffered a fatal heart attack after struggling with an intoxicated man he was attempting to arrest.

On July 10, 1973, Sheriff Jones worked two wrecks that evening and after arresting a drunk driver a struggle ensued. He returned to Fayette after 11:00 pm, complained of chest pains and was taken to Keller Memorial Hospitall at about 2:00 am. He died of a heart attack at 3:10 am on July 11, 1973.

Sheriff Jones was sheriff for 9 months and previously served as a deputy sheriff for 18 years. Sheriff Jones was a Freemason. He was survived by his wife; son, Jack; daughter; Shirley; and mother, Elgie. Interred: Washington Cemetery, Glasgow, Missouri.