Dr. Joe Jones, in memoriam

Dr. Joe Jones, in memorium

Ph.D. Florida State University

Bio: Dr. Joe Jones was Professor and Chair of the Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies. Joe was an Air Force brat. His father took the family to the Philippines for two tours, 5 1/2 years, and one tour in Germany, three years, and did an unaccompanied year tour in Korea when Joe was 6. When Joe was 17, he went to college at Clemson University, majored in beer, and flunked out. In late 1968, at 19 1/2 and with a 1-A draft classification prior to the lottery, he enlisted for 4 years in the Air Force. Between 1970 and 1972, he spent twenty-one months in Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos. When he was discharged early, just turned 23, he had spent about ten years abroad, which has affected his view of the world. This view is not so centered on the United States as the views of some folk. Better motivated, Joe tried college again, discovered it comfortable, and became a lifelong student. After 11 years, Florida State University said there were no more degrees he could get and threw him out with a Ph.D. in ancient Greek philosophy and mathematics, the history of science, logic, ethics, and a thing called metaphysics. He remained an active learner throughout his life, and appreciated the chance to speak with students concerning philosophical issues, which he sometimes considered ongoing therapy for himself. He always wished for students to also benefit from the conversations.