J. Harry Jones, Jr., a name synonymous with investigative journalism and poetic expression, passed away on July 22, 2026, at the age of 96. His journey, marked by a deep commitment to truth and creativity, left an enduring impact on those who knew him and the communities he served.

Born on July 12, 1930, in Kansas City, Missouri, Harry’s life was a tapestry of experiences that spanned continents and decades. His career as a journalist, his love for poetry, and his dedication to social causes painted a vivid portrait of a man who lived life to the fullest.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Harry’s formative years were spent in Kansas City, where he graduated from Pembroke-Country Day School in 1948. His academic pursuits led him to Beloit College in Wisconsin, where he met his future wife, Joan Mauntz Jones. They tied the knot in the Beloit College chapel in 1952, marking the beginning of a nearly 70-year partnership.

Harry’s journalistic journey began with the Kansas City Star where he worked as a general assignment reporter during the summers of 1950 and 1952. His career was briefly interrupted by a 3 ½-year stint in the U.S. Navy, but he returned to The Star in 1956, remaining there until 1980. His dedication and skill earned him numerous accolades, including awards from the Overseas Press Club the American Bar Association the American Civil Liberties Union the National Association of Social Workers and the American Political Science Association.

A Legacy of Investigative Journalism

Harry’s commitment to investigative journalism was evident in his work with the Investigative Reporters and Editors (I.R.E.). He served on its board of directors and was part of the 1977 award-winning Arizona Project. His most notable work, The Minutemen (Doubleday, 1968), delved into the activities of a right-wing, anti-Communist, domestic terrorist organization of the 1960s.

Journalism was a family affair for the Joneses. Harry’s father, J. Harry Jones, was a reporter for the Kansas City Star for 43 years, and his son, J. Harry Jones III, followed in their footsteps, working for the San Diego Union-Tribune for 33 years.

Poetry, Music, and Community Involvement

In his later years, Harry discovered a passion for poetry. His humorous and touching verses, both political and personal, brought joy and reflection to his readers. He was also an avid musician, singing bass in the choirs of various churches, including the Village Presbyterian Church of Prairie Village, the Lake Presbyterian Church in Osage Beach, and the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Evanston.

Harry’s community involvement extended beyond his professional life. He was an active member of the American Civil Liberties Union and the American Scrabble Association playing internet Scrabble with his son almost daily since 2005. His dedication to social causes was evident in his support for Democratic candidates and his wish for donations to the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Evanston, the ACLU, or Democratic candidates for president or Congress.

A Life of Love and Family

Harry’s personal life was as rich as his professional one. He and his wife, Jo, shared a love that spanned nearly seven decades. Together, they lived in various locations, including Kansas City, Kamakura and Yokosuka in Japan, Prairie Village, Kansas, Osage Beach, Missouri, Evanston, Illinois, and Lincolnwood, Illinois, where Harry lived since 2019.

Harry’s family included his son, J. Harry Jones III (Cathy), daughters Elizabeth Clemmitt (Richard) of Wilmette, Illinois, and Nancy Shiels (Dennis) of Southern Illinois, whom he discovered through DNA matching in 2018. He also leaves behind a granddaughter, Cassie Jones, a great-granddaughter, Kiara, and two grandsons, Ethan and Adam Clemmitt. Additionally, he had more family through Nancy, including three grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and four great-great grandchildren.

Harry’s best friend for over 65 years, Charles Hammer of Kansas City, and his ‘ladylove’ of the past three years, Leota Ester, were also integral parts of his life. His family’s devoted care and support allowed him to live a long and fulfilling life.

In his final days, Harry expressed his only regret: that he did not live long enough to see former President Trump impeached and behind bars. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and the community he served so diligently.

A celebration of Harry’s life will be held on Saturday, September 19, at 1 p.m., at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Evanston.