Richard “Itchy” Jones, an iconic figure in college baseball, passed recently at 87, leaving a legacy far beyond the diamond.
He was surrounded by his loving family, including his wife Sue, whom he married in the early 1960s and with whom he shared 62 years of marriage.
Together, they raised two children: Michael (Carol) Jones from Louisville, Kentucky, and Susan Jones from Gore, Oklahoma.
Jones’s daughter Susan is involved in her community as a Volunteer Puppy Raiser at KSDS Assistance Dogs, Inc. and studied at Southern Illinois University Carbondale.
The Jones couple also had a close and loving relationship with their grandchildren, including Richard Jones and Micah Jones, along with others.
Their relationship was defined by warmth and strong familial ties, and they shared many precious experiences.
As Richard “Itchy” Jones was always private about his personal life, there is limited detailed information available about his wife, Sue, and their children.
Richard “Itchy” Jones Had A Successful Coaching Career That Lasted 39 Years
Richard Jones was born in Herrin, Illinois, on February 15, 1938, the son of Jinx “Jiggs” and Rosine Jones. He grew up alongside his brother R.A. “Cowboy” Jones, a successful jockey.
The moniker “Itchy” came from a childhood incident in which Richard broke his leg in third grade and used a flyswatter handle to relieve the itching produced by his cast, so the name stuck.
At Southern Illinois University (SIU), Jones was a standout athlete.
He played second base for the Salukis and earned three-time All-Conference honors. He also showcased his basketball talent as a starting point guard.
He started his coaching career at Jacksonville High School in 1961 after briefly staying in the Baltimore Orioles minor league organization.
Richard Jones’ coaching career was defined by incredible achievement. In 1968, he returned to SIU as an assistant coach after serving as head baseball coach at MacMurray College.
In 1970, he took over as head coach and led the Salukis to ten NCAA tournaments and three College World Series appearances.
Jones moved to the University of Illinois in 1991, where he was a successful head coach for the next 15 years.
He won two Big Ten regular-season championships and the Big Ten Tournament Championship 2000.
When he retired in 2005, his 1,240-win overall coaching record placed him among the best coaches in NCAA history.
Jones taught over 22 players who made it to Major League Baseball and inspired countless others who went into coaching or administration.
His sports achievements were honored with induction into nine Halls of Fame.
Jones Died After A Three-Year Battle With Creutzfeldt-Jakob, Having Been Given Seven Months To Live
Despite his accomplishments, many who knew him best remember Richard “Itchy” Jones for his coaching abilities, character, and honesty.
Colleagues and former athletes have shared their condolences on social media, recalling his position as a mentor and friend.
Mike Reis stated on their friendship, saying,
” Itch was my best professional friend and was one of my best personal friends. The hurt from his loss feels lasting. He was everything you’d want in a friend, yet he knew when our jobs had to be done.He was everything a Saluki should and can be: alum, player, coach, HOF’er, donor, fan, friend, tough, supportive, questioning, and loyal. He was everything a human being should be, too. I’m happy for he and his family he is out of misery. And he was miserable. Meanwhile, the hole his loss leaves is immense.”
Via Facebook
Similarly, George Ofman praised Jones’ ethics and skill in teaching the game and wrote,
“So terribly saddened to hear of the passing of Richard “Itchy” Jones, long time baseball coach Southern Illinois University Carbondale and University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
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I appreciated his integrity, personality and ability to teach this great game while calling SIU baseball in the mid 70’s.”
Richard was diagnosed with Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease in April 2023, although he remained strong throughout. His death has left a huge void in the baseball community and among those who loved him.
As we remember Richard “Itchy” Jones, we honor his accomplishments and the love he shared with his wife, Sue, and their children. His legacy will continue to motivate future generations of players and coaches.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Jones was Only one of 6 Herrin Tigers inducted into the State Hall of Fame.
- Richard “Itchy” Jones was named national coach of the year twice, in 1971 and 1977.
- Jones and his wife, Sue, resided in Champaign during their retirement.
