Ben Jones, known for his role as Cooter Davenport in the iconic series The Dukes of Hazzard, has died at the age of 84. His wife, Alma Viator, confirmed that Jones suffered a massive heart attack at their home in Washington, Virginia.

Viator shared her grief on social media, expressing, “I lost the love of my life today.” She mentioned Jones was resting in his favorite chair, anticipating a baseball game of his beloved Atlanta Braves, when he passed away. The couple had been married since 1992.

Life and Career

Jones was born on August 30, 1941, in Edgecombe County, North Carolina. He began his career on stage before making his film debut in 1972 with Together For Days. Jones appeared in several other films, including Moonrunners in 1975 and The Lincoln Conspiracy in 1977.

On television, Jones first appeared in a 1976 episode of Movin’ On and took roles in Nashville 99 and The Magical World of Disney. His most notable TV role was Cooter Davenport, whom he portrayed for over 140 episodes in The Dukes of Hazzard from 1979 to 1985, and again in its reunion specials in 1997 and 2000.

Political Career

Beyond acting, Jones had a political career, serving two terms in the U.S. House of Representatives for Georgia’s fourth district from 1989 to 1993.

Tributes from Friends and Colleagues

Tom Wopat, who starred alongside Jones in The Dukes of Hazzard, lamented the loss, calling Jones a great friend and a sincere advocate for the entertainment industry. Wopat expressed his sorrow by stating that they lost a ‘Duke cousin’ that day.

Whey Jennings, grandson of Waylon Jennings, also mourned his friend and collaborator. Jennings recalled Jones’ generosity, noting that Jones had helped produce his first live album and often shared the stage with him.

Jones once described The Dukes of Hazzard as a show with humor, action, and a family-friendly spirit, reflecting American heartland values. He said, “The good guys always win.”