The St. Louis Argus joins the City of Dellwood, North St. Louis County and the greater metropolitan community in mourning the passing of Mayor Reggie Jones.
Mayor Jones died Friday, August 21, 2026, at the age of 54. His passing represents a profound loss not only for Dellwood, but for the many young people, families, civic leaders and community organizations touched by his decades of service.
Mayor Jones understood that leadership was not defined by title alone. It was measured by presence, consistency and a willingness to remain connected to the people one was entrusted to serve. Whether working inside City Hall, advocating for North County, directing youth programs or mentoring another generation, he demonstrated that public service begins with personal responsibility.
First elected mayor in 2013, Jones guided Dellwood through some of the most difficult moments in the city’s recent history. Following the unrest that spread through the region after the killing of Michael Brown in neighboring Ferguson, he helped lead Dellwood through recovery and rebuilding. His administration also secured passage of a $7 million bond initiative to repair streets, improve infrastructure and renovate City Hall.
Yet his legacy cannot be understood through government service alone.
For approximately three decades, Jones served young people through the Herbert Hoover Club of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis. He also served as president of the St. Louis Junior Football League from 1999 through 2013. Through these positions, he helped provide structure, encouragement, recreation and opportunity to thousands of children.
His commitment to young people preceded his political career and remained central to his life. Before becoming mayor, he served on the Riverview Gardens School District Board, as Dellwood city collector and as a member of the Dellwood Board of Aldermen.
Mayor Jones was a graduate of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, a member of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc., and an ordained deacon at New Sunny Mount Missionary Baptist Church. His civic, fraternal and spiritual commitments reflected a life grounded in service.
There is a particular kind of leadership that does not always receive national attention. It is the leadership of those who attend community meetings, answer residents’ calls, mentor children, repair neighborhoods and remain present when circumstances become difficult. Mayor Reggie Jones represented that tradition.
He was accessible. He was engaged. He understood that the cities of North County are connected and that progress requires collaboration across municipal boundaries. His work demonstrated that community development is ultimately about people—their safety, dignity, opportunities and confidence in the places they call home.
The Argus acknowledges Mayor Jones as a steadfast advocate for Dellwood, a champion for North County and a devoted servant of young people. We extend our deepest condolences to his wife, Rukiya, their children and grandchildren, his extended family, the City of Dellwood, the Herbert Hoover Club, New Sunny Mount Missionary Baptist Church, Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc., and everyone who knew and loved him.
Public offices eventually pass to others, but meaningful service leaves an imprint that cannot be erased. Mayor Jones’s legacy will live through the city he helped rebuild, the institutions he strengthened and the generations of young people he encouraged.
May his family find comfort in the knowledge that his life mattered, his service made a difference and his work will be remembered.
Rest well, Mayor Reggie Jones.
—The St. Louis Argus
The Independent Voice Since 1912
Editorial reference sources: City of Dellwood; Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis; VoyageSTL profile of Mayor Reggie Jones.
