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Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Chemistry William (Bill) M. Jones, whose impact in the classroom, leadership across the campus, and contributions to the field of organic chemistry earned him the University of Florida’s highest faculty honor, died January 15, 2022. He was 92.

As a faculty member for 40 years, Jones is remembered for his innovative research in organic chemistry and his dedication to undergraduate teaching. Throughout his career, Jones graduated more than 40 PhD students. He also served as chair of the Department of Chemistry from 1968-1973. Jones demonstrated exceptional devotion to nurturing strong educational relationships. In 1989, he was recognized as University of Florida’s Teacher/ Scholar of the Year — the university’s oldest and most prestigious faculty award.

“Bill was one of those wonderful people who not only did great science but also served the department, the university and the scientific community selflessly,” said Lisa McElwee-White, Crow Professor and chair of the Department of Chemistry. “He set an example of collegiality and collaboration that still remains in the department culture. He will be missed.”

Adding to his array of achievements, Jones fought for equitable opportunities for women to participate in university-sponsored athletics. He was instrumental in developing women’s sports programs at UF during his service on the Title IX committee throughout the ’80s and ’80s.

The W.M. Jones Award for Originality and Creativity, endowed by Jones himself, has recognized an exceptional graduate student in the Department of Chemistry annually since 1996, bestowing a monetary award and an honorary plaque located in Sisler Hall. In lieu of flowers, donations to this award are encouraged and will help continue Jones’ legacy to inspire and support students.

While many across campus can share personal stories from Jones’ long career in academia, others across the state know him as the owner of the Flounder Inn in Cedar Key, Florida. A talented woodcarver, Jones built the inn and its furniture with his own hands, hoping to share the joys of fishing and maritime exploration with others.

Jones’ zest for life and learning extended to his family. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Elizabeth N. Jones, and his three children, Kevin Jones, Sigrid Owyang and Kimberly Krajna.

Kevin Jones continues his father’s legacy of teaching excellence at the University of Florida as a Distinguished Professor and holds the Frederick N. Rhines Chair in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering. He joined the ranks with his father as University of Florida’s 2017-2018 Teacher-Scholar of the Year — receiving the prestigious award at the same age his father was when he won 28 years earlier.

And so, the Jones’ legacy lives on, continuing to shape the next generation of UF students.