Super Bowl Champion and Endicott, New York Native Arthur Jones Dies at 39

It’s a hard day in the Southern Tier. One of our own, Arthur Jones, who grew up in Endicott and went on to win a Super Bowl with the Baltimore Ravens, has died at just 39 years old. Many didn't expect a kid from Union-Endicott High School to one day shine on football’s biggest stage, but Arthur’s story was never typical. His journey wasn’t just about tackles or stats. It was about determination, loyalty, and the kind of smile that could light up a room.

Endicott’s Own, Growing Into Greatness

Arthur Willis Jones III was born June 3, 1986, and from the start, he carried that quiet determination people here know so well. At Union-Endicott High, he built the foundation that would carry him through: discipline, hard work, and character. He chose Syracuse University for college, seeing not just an opportunity to grow as an athlete, but also as a person. And he did. On the line, he was fierce. Off the field, he was a leader, a teammate, and a friend.

From Draft Underdog to Super Bowl Champion

In 2010, Arthur’s name was called in the fifth round of the NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens. For many, that late of a pick is a long shot. But Arthur? He proved right away that he belonged. He suited up for the Ravens from 2010 to 2013, and his proudest moment came on the biggest stage: Super Bowl XLVII, when Baltimore toppled the San Francisco 49ers. Arthur made his presence felt with a sack and a fumble recovery that helped secure the win. That Super Bowl ring will always be part of his story. He later played for the Indianapolis Colts and wrapped up his NFL career in 2017 with Washington. Over seven seasons, he tallied 173 tackles, 10 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles. Numbers that matter, but not nearly as much as the man behind them.

A Smile, a Fighter’s Spirit, and a Gentle Heart

When the Ravens spoke about Arthur today, they didn’t start with stats. They spoke about his “big, bright smile, infectious energy, and eternal positivity.” Teammates remembered a man who was kind, loyal, and always lifting others up.

Arthur came from a family of athletes, literally. His younger brothers are UFC legend Jon Jones and NFL defensive end Chandler Jones. The three pushed each other, challenged each other, and loved each other fiercely. And, there was more to Jones than football. Arthur earned a degree in communication and rhetorical studies, reflecting his love for connection and voice. He was as much about heart as he was about strength.

Endicott Mourns the Passing of a Hometown Hero

Arthur Jones died on October 3, 2025. He was only 39. The cause hasn’t been made public, but what we do know is that it feels far too soon. He wasn’t just a football player with a Super Bowl ring, he was a hometown kid from Endicott whose story inspired so many. His loss leaves a hole that can’t be filled.

Remembering What Truly Matters

Arthur Jones’ life is proof that big dreams can start in small places. He was just a kid from Endicott who worked hard, chased his passion, and ended up on football’s biggest stage. He was a champion in the game, but more importantly, he was a good man off the field.

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Losing Arthur so young reminds us how uncertain life can be, and how important it is to hold close the people who matter. In his memory, take a moment today to reach out to someone you care about. Let them know they’re important to you. That simple act is the kind of legacy Arthur would be proud to leave behind.