Those who are inducted into The Missouri Newspaper Hall of Fame are honored for having a body of work which represents more than a single remarkable accomplishment. They’re recognized as having a career of sustained commitment and dedication to journalism and the communities they serve.
Friday evening as part of the 159th annual Missouri Press Association Convention Trade Show in Wildwood, Missouri, one of The St. Louis American’s own, Kevin Jones, was honored in this regard, posthumously. Kevin died on January 4, 2024 at the age of 57. His widow Tina Jones, who accepted the Hall of Fame honor on his behalf, said that it doesn’t feel like much time has passed at all since Kevin’s death. In the environment of an MPA Convention which Kevin loved, where he found camaraderie, mentored and supported other journalists, served on the board for years, acted as president for a term and participated in the golf tournament every year without fail as a member, the festive mood of the celebratory evening was tinged with sadness.
Kevin’s close friend and the MC of the awards program Jeff Schrag said with sadness, “He died too young. He should be here celebrating with us.”
Kevin was the last of four awardees honored Friday evening and the only one no longer living. The other 2025 inductees into the Missouri Newspaper Hall of Fame are: Dennis Ellsworth, former Executive Editor of St. Joseph News-Press, Barbara Ann Horton, editor and reporter of Daily American Republic and Jerrilynn Voss, owner and editor of The Unterrified Democrat.
Kevin’s close friend and the MC of the awards program Jeff Schrag said with sadness, “He died too young. He should be here celebrating with us.”
Tina spoke of Kevin’s journey from a University of Missouri School of Jounalism graduate to a seasoned sales and marketing director, who eventually became the chief executive officer of The St. Louis American. He worked at The American for over thirty years. She explained that it was more than a job for him, it was a passion and he liked being a part of the positive things The St. Louis American did in the community. Kevin was involved in developing The St. Louis American’s award-winning special sections; he supervised the Diversity issue, which became the largest special edition on diversity published by a weekly in the U.S. He also helped build and grow the annual Salute to Excellence series of events.
Long-time colleague, sports columnist and former editor of The St. Louis American, Alvin A. Reid spoke about Kevin being more than the epitome of a news professional, molded and shaped by this time. “Jones (I liked to call him “Jones” and he called me “Reid”) was “someone special,” said Reid. “He was my friend.” This sentiment was echoed throughout the video presentation and in conversation with those who knew him throughout the ballroom, which was most of the attendees. He worked and stayed in touch with the members of the Missouri Press Associaton and Foundation. Kevin just plainly enjoyed being helpful to others.
In a video about Kevin, MPA associates mentioned that Kevin brought a different perspective to MPA meetings. He challenged board members to look to the future and see things from a perspective, which might not be their own.
Kevin’s memory is honored forever by his induction into the Missouri Newspaper Hall of Fame and by the MPA annual golf tournament being renamed to pay tribute to him. It is now the annual “Kevin Jones First Amendment Golf Tournament.” The third one will take place in 2026.