June Sheldon Jones III (February 19, 1953 – October 29, 2026) was an American football coach and former player. Jones was the head football coach at the University of Hawaii at Manoa from 1999 to 2007 and Southern Methodist University (SMU) from 2008 until his resignation in 2014.
It’s a somber day in the world of college football as we bid farewell to June Jones, the legendary coach who brought the University of Hawaii football program back from the brink of despair. At the age of 73, Jones passed away, leaving behind a legacy that is as colorful as a Hawaiian sunset and as impactful as a touchdown in the final seconds of a game.
For those who may not know, June Jones is not just any coach; he is the winningest coach in UH history. He took the reins of the Warriors from 1999 to 2007, a time when the program was about as popular as a pineapple on pizza. In fact, the Warriors had a record of 0-12 before Jones stepped in and, like a magician pulling a rabbit out of a hat, turned things around dramatically. By 2007, he had led the team to a stunning 12-0 regular season. Talk about a glow-up!
Jones was not just a coach; he was a pioneer. He introduced the run-and-shoot offense, which has since become a staple in college football. If you’ve ever seen a team score a touchdown and thought, “Wow, that was smooth!”—thank June Jones. His innovative approach to the game didn’t just change how the Warriors played; it influenced the broader landscape of college football. Coaches everywhere were suddenly thinking, “Maybe we should try throwing the ball more than five times a game!”
Beyond the X’s and O’s, Jones was also committed to developing future coaches through a coaching certification program. It’s like he wanted to ensure that his legacy would live on, not just in the record books, but in the hearts and minds of future generations. And let’s be honest, anything that involves teaching more people how to coach is a win for the sport.
His tenure at UH wasn’t just about wins and losses; it was about instilling a sense of pride in the program and the community. Jones was known for his ability to connect with players, turning young men into not only athletes but also responsible citizens. It’s a tough job, but someone had to do it, right?
Of course, his journey wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows. There were challenges, controversies, and the occasional fan meltdown (because, let’s face it, who hasn’t seen a few of those at a football game?). But through it all, Jones maintained a level of grace and humor that made him a beloved figure. You could always count on him for a witty remark or a light-hearted jab at the opposing team.
As we reflect on Jones’s life and career, it’s clear that he was more than just a coach. He was a visionary who believed in the power of teamwork, determination, and a good ol’ Hawaiian spirit. His influence will be felt for years to come, not just at the University of Hawaii but across the entire landscape of college football.
So, here’s to June Jones—a man who turned a struggling football program into a powerhouse and taught us all that with a little hard work and a lot of heart, anything is possible. Rest in peace, Coach. Your legacy will never be forgotten.
Inspired by: “June Jones, UH football’s winningest coach, dies” (r/Local)