Jessie Jones, Prolific Writer and Performer, Dies

Jessie Jones, a celebrated comedy playwright and television actress, died on March 20th at the age of 75. She was known for her contributions to popular television series and her successful playwriting career.

A Career Spanning Stage and Screen

Jones’s television credits include appearances on well-known shows such as Murphy Brown, Night Court, Designing Women, Newhart, Perfect Strangers, Who’s the Boss?, and Weird Science. She also appeared in several television movies throughout her career.

The Jones Hope Wooten Playwriting Team

Alongside Nicholas Hope and Jamie Wooten, Jones formed the playwriting team Jones Hope Wooten. The trio gained recognition for their Southern-set comedies and dedication to supporting local theaters.

Notable Plays

  • The Sweet Delilah Swim Club
  • Christmas Belles
  • Dearly Beloved
  • Rex’s Exes

From Texas Roots to Hollywood Success

Born on August 21, 1950, in the Texas Panhandle, Jones began her theatrical journey in Austin, Texas, where she attended the University of Texas. It was there she met Nicholas Hope Wilkinson, who cast her in one of his plays.

After pursuing theater in New York, Jones transitioned to Hollywood, focusing primarily on television writing and acting. Later, she returned to her passion for theater, continuing her work with Jones Hope Wooten and co-writing Dearly Departed.

‘Kingdom Come’ and Legacy

Jones co-wrote the 2001 film Kingdom Come, adapted from the off-Broadway play Dearly Departed, alongside David Dean Bottrell. Jamie Wooten described Jones as “a beautiful, hilarious and strong Texas woman with personality plus.”

Family and Memorials

Jessie Jones is survived by her sisters, Ellen Jones and Laura Jones, as well as her niece Margaret McCarthy and nephews Tommy McCarthy, Todd Hyso, and Paul Hyso. The family requests that donations in her memory be made to Planned Parenthood.