Former CBS News correspondent Phil Jones, known for his unwavering commitment to truth and his coverage of pivotal events in American history, passed away at his residence in Florida. His death was reported on August 25, 2024. He was 87 years old.
Jones’s journalism journey started at WTHI-TV in Terre Haute, Indiana. He later moved to WCCO-TV in Minneapolis, Minnesota. CBS News took notice of his detailed reporting skills and recruited him in 1969 during the era of renowned anchor Walter Cronkite. Jones belonged to the group referred to as “Cronkite’s Kids,” correspondents known for their relentless journalism and commitment to factual reporting.
During his three-decade career with CBS News, Jones reported on some of the most significant events in U.S. politics. His coverage of the Vietnam War garnered him an Emmy Award and established him as one of CBS’s top correspondents. His investigative reporting during the Watergate scandal played a crucial role in revealing the scandal’s details, helping to uncover one of the largest political controversies in the nation. Jones was on the scene when President Richard Nixon resigned in 1974, providing comprehensive analysis of the political consequences.
In the subsequent decades, Jones consistently reported on major political events, including the Ford administration, the Iran-Contra affair, and the impeachment trial of President Bill Clinton. His reporting was characterized by his determination to hold those in power accountable, earning him respect both inside and outside of the newsroom.
Jones’ work wasn’t confined to political reporting. While working for CBS’ investigative program “48 Hours,” he undertook a daring journey through Burma on a mule in pursuit of a drug lord, demonstrating his dedication to reporting challenging stories in perilous conditions. He also conducted in-depth interviews with figures such as Washington, D.C. Mayor Marion Barry, thereby showcasing his versatility as a journalist.
“Phil Jones changed my life forever with one phone call,” KFAN Radio’s Mark Rosen, a family friend and one-time neighbor of Jones, said. Rosen, who had obtained a job at WCCO at the age of 17 with Jones’ assistance, lived across the street from Jones in St. Louis Park. Rosen stressed that he was among the most tenacious reporters in CBS News history.
After 32 years of dedicated service, Jones bid farewell to CBS News in 2001. Eric Engberg, a colleague of Jones, observed at the time of Jones’ retirement that corrupt politicians in Washington would sleep better without Jones’ presence, underscoring Jones’ significant impact on investigative journalism.
Jones leaves behind his two children, Paul and Pam. His legacy as a courageous journalist committed to the truth will continue to inspire journalists of the future. His career, marked by his unwavering dedication to honest and meticulous reporting, will be remembered as a pillar of American political journalism.
