Coach James "Jimmy" Henry Jones

Coach James H. Jones, of Six Mile, Alabama passed on July 11, 2026, at the age of 92. Jimmy enrolled at Livingston Teacher's College (now the University of West Alabama) in 1951, and after suspending his studies to serve in the U.S. Army, he returned to receive his bachelor's degree from Livingston University in 1958. He later received the master's degree from Livingston University in 1970.

As an undergraduate, Mr. Jones was an all-around student. He received academic recognition as LU's Outstanding Student in 1958, as well as the distinction of being listed in Who's Who Among American Colleges and Universities. As a student leader, he served as President of the Student Government Association and was a two-sport athlete, recognized as Most Outstanding Football Player in 1953 and Most Valuable Baseball Player in 1958.

Mr. Jones began his career in education as a history teacher and assistant football coach at Thompson High School in 1958, with many great stops along the way - Hokes Bluff High School, Ohatchee High School, Osborne High School (GA), Vincent High School. During his early years in teaching, he taught history, geography, and physical education in addition to coaching football and basketball. He eventually moved into administration as the Assistant Principal of Montevallo High School, and in 1970, he became the first Principal of Montevallo Middle School. Mr. Jones became the Principal of Montevallo Elementary School in 1979 and remained in that role until his retirement in 1993.

Recognizing the value of mentoring beyond the classroom, Mr. Jones was extensively involved in civic activities and organizations. He was a member of the Montevallo Lions Club and President of the Six Mile Community Park Association.

He has been honored professionally with numerous awards, including the Alabama High School Football's All-Star Coach Award, the Calhoun County Football Coach of the Year Award, and the inaugural Lawrence L. Malone Outstanding Principal Award. In 1972, he was elected President of the Shelby County Education Association, and in 1993, the City of Montevallo named the street adjacent to Montevallo Elementary School "James H. Jones Drive" in honor of his years of service and dedication to education.

Mr. Jones was a member and deacon of Six Mile Baptist Church and has served as the Bibb Baptist Association Representative for the State Baptist Mission Board.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Jane Brett Jones; children, Nan Franks, Bret Jones (Amanda), Genie Stephens (Walter), and Coty Jones (Kamie); ten grandchildren; fifteen great-grandchildren; brothers-in-law, Gene Brett and Henry Brett (Debbie); sisters-in-law, Nancy Brett Stevens, Claudette Brett and Ruth Ann Brett; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, W. C. Jones; mother, Henry Farrington Jones; sister, Mary Louise Crider; brother, William Cary Jones; and brother-in-law, Tillis Brett.

His funeral service will be held on Thursday, July 16, 2026 at 12:00 PM at Six Mile Baptist Church, 182 West Ashby Road, Brierfield, AL 35035, with visitation from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM. Harold Garrett will officiate.

He will be laid to rest at Six Mile Cemetery. Service will be conducted by Jonathan Mathis and Scott Gibson. Pallbearers are Brent Baugh, Shane Baugh, Lynn Crider, Todd Davis, Ronnie Holsombeck, Billy Jones and Eddie Staffney.

In lieu of flowers, the family of James H. Jones welcomes donations to the Six Mile Baptist Church Cemetery, 182 West Ashby Road, Brierfield, AL 35035 or to Montevallo Elementary School, 171 Jeter Circle, Montevallo, AL 35115.