Gordon Jones, left, with Paul Burrows, Paula Millington and Kirk Strickland in 2010. (Photo: Kirk Strickland)
Gordon Jones, a video producer for public media stations KUED and KUEN in Salt Lake City, died Oct. 30 at 63. He had been diagnosed with lung cancer in May.
“Gordon was a great producer,” said Paula Millington, his former supervisor. “He kept moving forward with all of the changes in the industry and honed his skills in the digital world.”
Jones was also “a great human being and seemed to know something about everything without being overbearing,” she said. “His curiosity and approach to learning helped him connect with anyone he met. His clients loved him as he made their good ideas better and brought them to life on the screen — any size screen.”
Jones garnered several awards for outstanding television production. He won a Telly for He Said He Loved Me, a film for the Domestic Peace Task Force. He took pride in numerous productions for the Utah Education Network, the Moran Eye Center and other nonprofits.
“His video work touched so many University of Utah faculty, students and staff over the years, from the profoundly academic to professional development training and certifications,” said Paul Burrows, a colleague since the 1980s. “His uniquely insightful producer skills encouraged his clients to better define and refine the messages and content they wanted to convey.”
Former colleague Kirk Strickland said Jones began his professional career as a crew member while still in high school. “Besides creativity,” he said, “Gordon’s leadership style consistently emphasized the practical and efficient.”
“Of everyone I have worked for over the years, Gordon had the most influence on my video career and my professional growth,” said former colleague Kristy Muday. “He allowed me to develop my skills and confidence while guiding my decisions with subtle suggestions and humor.”
Jones was born and grew up in Salt Lake City and graduated from East High School. He was an avid scuba diver, photographer and world traveler.
He is survived by his wife Patty McCracken and her daughters Jackie and Miranda.
At his request, there will be no memorial service.