Allan Jones

Allan Laverne Jones, retired Professor of  Visual Arts, University of Louisiana at Lafayette, died peacefully at his home on October 18, 2019.   Born in Fort Worth, Texas in November, 1940, he is survived by his wife of 56 years, Glenda Wynelle, sister Claudia Cushman (Thomas) sister-in-law, Danette Ray, (Charlie Clikeman) mother-in-law Louise Ray and niece and nephew, Candi Sullivan (Michael) and Kyle Cushman.  Allan was preceded in death by his parents, L.L. and Naomi Jones, and his father-in-law, Winfred Ray.

Allan graduated from Northside High School, Fort Worth, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Texas Wesleyan College, 1963. He was awarded a Master of Fine Arts degree from Claremont Graduate School, Claremont, California in 1965.

Allan was dedicated in equal measure to his career as a teacher and his profession as an artist.   Beginning at the University of Southwestern Louisiana in 1965, he later taught at Antioch College, Yellow Springs, Ohio, and subsequently returned to the University of Louisiana at Lafayette in 1986.

Advising and encouraging developing artists was Allan’s great joy.  The University recognized his commitment to education with the Dr. Ray Authement Excellence in Teaching Award, and Allan has been named the 2020 recipient of the SPARK Lifetime Achievement in Arts award by the College of the Arts, University of Louisiana at Lafayette.

In addition to teaching, Allan was equally committed to investigating ideas in art, and he produced a large body of work that has received critical attention and acclaim.  His work was exhibited in many venues, including New York City, Cincinnati, Dayton, Denver, and Lafayette.  Working in his studio was always Allan’s preference.  He was in his element there.

A memorial gathering celebrating Allan’s life at his Hidden Hills home will be announced at a later date.   A family graveside service will be held at Berry Creek Cemetery, Georgetown, Texas. Those who wish may recognize Allan with a donation to the Edith Garland Dupre Library, University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Lafayette, Louisiana.

Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.sibillefuneralhomes.com.