CLASS OF 1972
Born in Omaha, Merle Jones was a 1925 graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a 1929 graduate of the University of Nebraska College of Law. Jones started in radio at WAAW, Omaha, the station destined to become KOWH, KMEO, and today’s KCRO. He later served as general manager of four stations affiliated with CBS. His longest assignment as a general manager was at KMOX radio, St. Louis, Missouri from 1937 to 1944.
Merle Jones’ career then took him to CBS where he became Vice President in charge of CBS-owned television stations. He rose to president of the CBS owned stations division from 1958 to 1968. During that period in 1957 for one year he was called upon to be president of the CBS Television network.
Jones originally was honored by the Nebraska Broadcasters Association as Broadcaster Of The Year when that award was presented during the 1960’s. When the NBA Hall of Fame was established in 1972, Jones was among the charter members.
Jones passed away in March, 1976.
