ROCKY JONES DIES AT 86
An obituary by Chuck Hasson

Fred "Rocky" Jones, former light heavyweight contender who scored a shocking upset of Roland LaStarza in 1952, died on Saturday, February 23rd at age 86. Those of us who were lucky enough to have known him remember Rocky as a wonderful guy and a real gentleman.

He was born in Akron, OH and spent much of his youth in an orphanage in that city and always had nothing but kind words for those who cared for him.

Although only a 175 lber, he met some of the best heavyweights of the 1950's and always gave a fine account of himself. Rocky boxed LaStarza (twice), Tommy Harrison, Dan Bucceroni (three times), Danny Nardico, Curt Kennedy, Jimmy Rousse, Art Swiden, Jimmy Slade, Charlie Powell, Chubby Wright, Ted Calaman, Freddie Beshore, Bill Gilliam and Doc Bee.

Rocky served in the Army during WWII in the Italian campaign and became friends with Ezzard Charles. He retired after working 23 years for the construction crew at Scott Paper Co. in Chester, Pa. where he resided until he passed away.

Rocky's smiling, upbeat attitude had a positive affect on all who came in contact with him and he will be sadly missed by his loving family and his legions of friends.

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