Jerrauld Jones facts for kids

Jerrauld Corey Jones (July 22, 1954 – May 31, 2025) was an important American politician and judge. He was a member of the Democratic Party. From 1988 to 2002, he served in the Virginia House of Delegates. He represented the 89th District in Norfolk, Virginia. At the time of his passing, he was a judge for the Norfolk Circuit Court.

Early Life and Education

Jerrauld Corey Jones was born in Norfolk, Virginia, in 1954. His father was a well-known African-American lawyer in the city. In the 1950s, Virginia faced challenges with school integration. In 1961, young Jerrauld became one of the first African-American students at his elementary school. Later, in 1967, he helped integrate the private Virginia Episcopal School in Lynchburg, Virginia.

Jones went on to college at Princeton University. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1976. In 1980, he graduated from the Washington and Lee University School of Law. He earned a Juris Doctor degree, which is a law degree. That same year, he made history. He became the first African-American law clerk for the Supreme Court of Virginia.

After law school, Jones returned to Norfolk. He worked as an Assistant Commonwealth's Attorney for two years. This role is similar to a public prosecutor. He then started his own private law practice. He worked as a private lawyer until 2002.

Political Career Highlights

In 1987, Jerrauld Jones was elected to the Virginia House of Delegates. This is a part of Virginia's state legislature. He won the election for the 89th District. The previous representative, Yvonne B. Miller, decided to run for the state senate instead.

Jones was re-elected seven times, showing strong support from voters. He eventually became a member of the Rules Committee. This committee helps decide how the House of Delegates operates.

In 2001, Jones ran for Lieutenant Governor of Virginia. He finished third in the Democratic primary election. After this, he ran for re-election to the House of Delegates. He won his eighth term in November 2001.

In June 2002, Governor Mark Warner appointed Jones to a new role. He became the state Director of Juvenile Justice. He held this position until 2005. In this role, he was in charge of young people in Virginia's juvenile detention system.

Judicial Service

In 2005, Governor Warner appointed Jones as a judge. He served on the Norfolk Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court. This court handles cases involving young people and families.

In December 2008, Governor Tim Kaine appointed him to a higher court. Jones became a judge on the Norfolk Circuit Court. This court handles more serious legal cases. The state legislature then elected him to a full 8-year term in 2009. He was re-elected for a second 8-year term in 2017.

Passing

Jerrauld Corey Jones passed away on May 31, 2025. He was 70 years old.