(Milwaukee, WI) – It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. Jerrel W. Jones, the esteemed CEO of Courier Communications, who departed this life on June 4, 2025. A prominent figure in Wisconsin’s media landscape, Jones was known for his pioneering work as the founder of Courier Communications, which includes both the Milwaukee Courier newspaper and WNOV 860AM/106.5FM radio station. Jones was the first black man, in the nation, to concurrently own both a radio station and newspaper.
In 1964, Jerrel Jones set out to create a platform for underrepresented voices and to serve Milwaukee’s African American community. He credited his mother, Dr. Mary Ellen Strong, who owned the Milwaukee Defender weekly newspaper, for his interest in print media. His dedication to journalism and community advocacy helped establish the Milwaukee Courier as a trusted source of news and information.
In 1986, Jones further expanded his media influence by launching WNOV 860AM, later adding 106.5FM to reach a broader audience. The radio station stands as a cornerstone of talk radio in Milwaukee, offering listeners an engaging and diverse space to discuss the important issues of the day. Additionally, the station serves as a destination for music enthusiasts, providing them a rich programming lineup that celebrates the best in R&B, Blues, Reggae, Gospel and Jazz.
Over the years, Jones held ownership of several enterprises and played pivotal roles in politics. Candidates and elected officials, locally and nationally, frequented his northside office and held court with WNOV talk show hosts over the years. He achieved these accomplishments, despite leaving college before graduation, to manage his flourishing and expanding enterprises. In 2022, Jones was the recipient of a 2022 honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from Cardinal Stritch University.
Mary Ellen Jones, General Manager of WNOV, in reflecting on his honorary degree and passing said “My father valued education and believed in its power to change your circumstance. It is why he worked so hard to keep the community engaged and informed. He was a mentor, pioneer, and pillar of strength. His legacy is woven into every part of WNOV and The Milwaukee Courier newspaper. Both our family and the Courier Communications team will strive to continue his work”
In his honor, the Milwaukee Courier will publish a special Tribute Edition in July, to commemorate Dr. Jones’ 86th birthday. Community members, business partners, and public officials are invited to share tributes and reflections as part of this special commemorative issue. The family will announce a Life Celebration Service at a later date.
