In Memory of Robert A. "Bob" Jones

Obituary

Robert A. "Bob" Jones, 76, of New Hartford, passed away on August 27, 2026, at Wynn Hospital in Utica, New York.

Bob was born on April 3, 1950, in Utica, the son of the late Howard and Caroline (Scruton) Jones. He was raised in New Hartford and educated in the New Hartford Central School District before continuing his education at Utica College.

On January 20, 1973, Bob married Eleanor (Muraca) Jones at Blessed Sacrament Church in Utica. Together, they shared 53 years of marriage and raised three daughters.

Known simply as "Coach" to generations of students, athletes, colleagues, and friends, Bob dedicated more than 35 years to teaching social studies at Perry Junior High School in New Hartford. His influence extended far beyond the classroom through his lifelong devotion to football. For more than 50 years, he coached football at New Hartford High School and Utica University, mentoring generations of students and athletes.

Bob's three great passions were family, friends, and football. He treasured time spent with those he loved, whether watching or coaching a game, visiting with lifelong friends, or enjoying the community of New Hartford. A lifelong resident, he deeply appreciated the people, traditions, and character of his hometown.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Eleanor; his three daughters, Leslie Houck and her husband, Jeff, Robin Jones, and Melissa Strype and her husband, Jim; his grandchildren, Logan Houck and Paige Strype; his brother, James Jones; and his nephews, Joshua Jones and Peter Jones. He also leaves behind many cherished friends, former students, and players, including his lifelong friends Ron Mattia, Tom D'Onofrio, Frank Cristiano, Jerry Pitarresi, Joe Bottini, and Pat Tyksinski.

Bob was predeceased by his parents, Howard and Caroline, and his brother, David Jones.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the ICU staff at Wynn Hospital and Bob's oncology team at Memorial Sloan Kettering for the compassionate care they provided.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. John the Evangelist Church, 66 Oxford Road, New Hartford, New York. Interment will follow at Holy Trinity Cemetery & Mausoleum, 1500 Champlin Avenue, Utica, New York.

Family and friends may call on Monday, August 31, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Friedel, Williams & Edmunds Funeral and Cremation Services, 13 Oxford Rd., New New Hartford.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Community Foundation, 2608 Genesee Street, Utica, NY 13502 in memory of Coach Jones. Donations will be distributed to local sport and youth organizations. Contributions may also be made online with a link to follow.

For online expressions of sympathy go to fwefh.com.