Born on September 13, 1947, in Alabama, Michael T. Jones grew up with a strong sense of family, community, and determination that carried with him throughout his life. After moving north, he built a long and dedicated career with United Airlines in Chicago. Whether he was working on the ground or supporting his team behind the scenes, Michael approached every day with pride, consistency, and the kind of quiet leadership that earned him the respect of everyone around him.
Beyond his career, one of Michael’s greatest passions was sports. He loved the game—playing it, watching it, talking about it—and sharing that love with the people around him. What mattered even more to him was passing that passion on to the next generation. Michael spent countless hours coaching his son and other young athletes, not just teaching them the fundamentals of the sport but instilling confidence, discipline, and teamwork. His players often remembered him not only for his knowledge of the game but for the way he encouraged them, pushed them to be better, and made every practice feel meaningful.
In addition to his coaching, Michael was deeply committed to expanding education opportunities for young athletes through initiatives like the Michael T. Jones Foundation, which aimed at providing scholarship and student athlete support. Sports were never just a pastime for Michael—they were a way he connected with people, gave back to his community, and created lasting memories with his family.
Rooted in his Southern upbringing and strengthened by decades in the Midwest, Michael is remembered for his kindness, his steady presence, his competitive spirit, and the legacy he built through both his work and the young players he coached.