John Jones, a champion of Shelby County youth, has died.

Jones, whose passion for agriculture and community served his county for decades, passed away on Friday night, said his son, Jeff.

It was his 77th birthday.

“He had watched the ballgame and mother said he fussed and fussed, but wasn’t too bad. He loved Auburn,” Jeff said. “She went to take a shower — they were going to eat some wings — and when she got back he was lying on the bed.”

Paramedics attempted to revive him and transported him to Shelby Baptist Medical Center, but he did not make it to the hospital, he said.

Funeral arrangements are pending.

Jones was a tireless advocate of the Shelby County Fair and raised many tens of thousands of dollars for education during his years of service.

“The award-winning fair would neither have existed nor thrived as it does without Mr. Jones vision and leadership,” said Tim Prince, president and publisher of Shelby County Newspapers Inc. “This is a huge loss for his family and our community.”

Jones was an extension agent for many years and worked at the Alabama 4-H Center for several years following his retirement from the extension service.

Jones was also active Kiwanis Club member.