Stephen M. Jones, former Carson-Newman soccer coach, died June 29, 2009, in Jefferson City, Tenn. Former C-N men’s soccer coach Stephen Jones passed away on Saturday morning at the age of 44 after a bout with cancer. “I was saddened to learn the news of Stephen’s death,” C-N athletic director David Barger said. “He was a Christian gentleman, faithful husband and great dad. Coach Jones laid a good foundation for our men’s soccer program as the college’s first full time coach.” “He was also instrumental in establishing the groundwork for the start of our women’s soccer team. Stephen loved people. The legacy of the C-N soccer players he coached will be felt for years to come.” Jones compiled a 59-60-10 record while coaching the Eagles from 1990-97. He was named South Atlantic Conference Coach of the Year in just his second season in 1991 after leading the Eagles to at 10-7-1 mark, which was the program’s first-ever winning season. “Our soccer family is deeply touched and saddened by the loss of coach Stephen Jones,” said current C-N men’s soccer coach Allen Vital. “Stephen was one of the pioneers for competitive soccer in the Lakeway Area.” “I have met very few people who were more passionate about the game of soccer and the opportunity to coach young people. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.” Prior to joining the C-N family, Jones was the interim head coach at The Citadel in Charleston, S.C. He inherited the position after serving two years as a graduate assistant there. The Opelika, Ala. native earned his Master’s degree in Physical Education from The Citadel and received his bachelor’s degree in the same field from Coker College in Hartsville, S.C., where he was a four-year member of the soccer team. Receiving of friends will be held on Tuesday from 4-7 p.m. at Heritage Fellowship in Jefferson City, with the service beginning at 7. As a testament of Jones’ fight for life, the family has asked that everyone wear green to Tuesday’s service. The graveside service will be on Wednesday at Jefferson Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, a gift may be given to Jones’ medical fund. Make checks payable to Heritage Fellowship with “Jones Medical Fund” listed on the memo line and mail to Heritage Fellowship at 316 W. Old A.J. Hwy, Jefferson City, TN 37760. Tags: CGC 1990
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