Wednesday, August 30, 2017
I would like to offer my sincere condolences to the family of Dr. Chester Jones. I was asked the other day if I knew Dr. Chester Jones, and I replied that I knew him very well. I was then informed of his passing and that his funeral would take place on Friday. I was immediately filled with a sense of sadness and sorrow at the news of Dr. Jones' death, feelings of regret for failing to visit in recent years, and a tremendous awareness of gratitude for knowing him as I reflected on the impact he has had on my life and career. Dr. Jones was my professor, advisor, and mentor during my time as a graduate social work student at Rutgers University. He was my only African American male social work professor in seven years of graduate studies. As such, he also became an important role model for me. I realize that I am one of many former students of Dr. Jones who became engaged in meaningful social work careers after listening to and learning from his lectures, professional experience, and wise counsel. Dr. Jones was a man of great intellect, an able administrator, a commensurate professional, a compassionate counselor, and a respected mentor. He had a beautiful smile, could tell a good story, and had a wonderful sense of humor. The thing that I remember the most about Dr. Jones, however, is the respect he gave me and the way he inspired me to achieve a greater good. My prayer for you today is that you will find hope in the love that goes beyond the grave, comfort in your many wonderful, cherished, and precious memories, and joy in knowing that Dr. Chester Jones touched the lives of so many people and brought so much good to this world.
