MURFREESBORO, TN (WGNS) - Dr. John Hodge Jones, a man whose name became synonymous with educational innovation in Murfreesboro, passed away peacefully on March 8, 2026, at the age of 89. His influence on Murfreesboro City Schools is so deeply rooted that many of the district’s most recognizable programs and philosophies can be traced directly to his leadership.
Born in Rutherford County in 1937, Jones grew up on the family farm, a place he cherished throughout his life. Those early years shaped his work ethic and his belief in steady, purposeful service—qualities that would define his nearly four decades in education. After earning degrees from David Lipscomb College, Middle Tennessee State College, and a Ph.D. from George Peabody College for Teachers, he began a career that would touch thousands of lives.
Jones served in nearly every role imaginable: teacher, principal, assistant superintendent, school board member, Deputy Commissioner for the Tennessee Department of Education, and ultimately Superintendent of Murfreesboro City Schools for 15 years. His tenure was marked by bold ideas that placed Murfreesboro on the national map. He launched the Extended School Program at a time when after‑school care was far from common, and he oversaw the opening of Cason Lane Academy, a Paideia-model school that drew educators from around the world.
His leadership extended well beyond city limits. Jones chaired the National Education Commission on Time and Learning, was named Tennessee Superintendent of the Year, and became a finalist for National Superintendent of the Year. He even participated in a White House Conference on Child Care, bringing Murfreesboro’s voice to the national conversation. The Tennessee General Assembly honored him with a Joint Resolution recognizing his extraordinary contributions.
Comments from Community Leaders
Yet those who knew him say his greatest legacy wasn’t the accolades—it was his unwavering belief in children, families, and teachers. He championed equity, innovative instruction, and respect for educators long before those ideas became widespread. Many of today’s district leaders credit him as a mentor who shaped their careers.
Murfreesboro City School's Director Dr. Trey Duke told WGNS, "I had the privilege of presenting Dr. John Hodge Jones with his award as he was inducted into our first Hall of Fame class. In that moment, and in every story shared about him, he stood out as a true gentleman. His life’s work reflected a deep love for the children of Murfreesboro and an unwavering commitment to public education. Dr. Jones’s legacy lives on in the programs he built, the schools he shaped, and the countless lives he touched with kindness, humility, and quiet strength."
ESP Creator Becci Bookner noted, "It is truly an honor to write a few words about my friend, Dr. Jones. When I think about him, I am reminded of a line by Tony Robbins that goes: It is in your moments of decision that your destiny is shaped. That is certainly the story of John Hodge Jones. His destiny is the story of decisions that promoted an excellent system which affected the lives of so many parents, students and teachers in a most unique way. In my case, his decision to try a before and after school program changed my career and opened more doors of opportunity than I can list. I will always be grateful for his friendship, trust and support for all the work with the Extended School Program. He was a most special and dear person. May God bless his memory in our community."
Senior Judge Don Ash commented, "Dr. Jones was not only a family friend but also a friend to all the children in Murfreesboro. His kind heart and willingness to improve our city schools impacted thousands of lives. Rita and I always bragg about our school system and there is no doubt Dr. Jones laid the foundation for its continued success. Soli Deo Gloria !"
Murfreesboro City School's Board Vice Chair Butch Campbell said, "John Hodge was a well respected educator not only for Murfreesboro's but also for every child but also for other educators that knew him. I had the opportunity to know him also as a friend. He will be missed and also respected by many that knew him."
Outside of education, Jones was a devoted father, grandfather, and great‑grandfather, a longtime member of Crescent Church of Christ, and a man who found peace watching sunsets over the fields of his family farm. He often quoted the words of “Sunrise, Sunset,” reminding loved ones to savor life’s seasons.
Visitation will be held Saturday, March 14, from 12–2 p.m. at Woodfin Funeral Chapel, followed by a 2 p.m. service with burial at Evergreen Cemetery. Donations may be made to the Tammy Jones Memorial Scholarship at MTSU or the Crescent Church of Christ building fund.
