June Jones, former Hawai'i and Atlanta Falcons head coach, dead at 73

June Jones, a respected football coach with a significant college career, has died at 73. He is remembered for his impactful tenure at the University of Hawai’i, leading them to conference titles and their first-ever BCS bowl game. Jones also had coaching stints in the NFL, USFL, and CFL, and was known as a mentor and visionary.

• June Jones, a former college football coach, passed away at the age of 73.
• Jones coached at the University of Hawai’i from 1999-2007, leading them to conference titles in 1999 and 2007.
• The 2007 season was historic for Hawai’i, as they achieved a 12-0 record and made the school’s first BCS bowl game (Sugar Bowl).
• Jones previously played quarterback for Hawai’i and also played professionally for the Atlanta Falcons.
• His coaching career included head coaching positions with the Atlanta Falcons (1994-96), interim head coach for the San Diego Chargers (1998), and head coach at SMU (2008-14).
• Current Hawai’i head coach Timmy Chang, who played under Jones, expressed deep sorrow and highlighted Jones’s role as a father figure, mentor, and visionary.
• Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi, a former player and assistant coach under Jones, emphasized Jones’s special coaching ability and lasting legacy.