Elder Henry Lee (Duke) Jones, a man of exceptional talent and unwavering commitment, began his journey in 1970 when he was recognized as the “Best Baritone Vocalist for the State of Louisiana” by the Louisiana Intercollegiate Association of Louisiana Organizations (LIALO). His vocal talent even earned him a prestigious music scholarship to a New York academy, yet his true calling led him down a different path. Following in the footsteps of his grandfathers, he chose a life of ministry, a decision that shaped his purpose and mission.
Elder Jones answered the call to serve as a chaplain in the United States Air Force before becoming the pastor of two churches across two different states, where he dedicated himself to his congregations and community. His post-secondary education was a rich journey of exploration and self-discovery, taking him from Los Angeles City College to Ypsilanti Community College, then Saginaw Valley State College, The University of Marquette, and finally to the University of California at Los Angeles. Rather than conforming to one academic path, he pursued a diverse and self-guided education that reflected his lifelong thirst for knowledge and growth.
Elder Jones is also an accomplished author, with two published works, On The Right Side of Wrong and One Last Thing Before I Go, which reveal his insightful perspective on life, faith, and justice. As an activist, Elder Jones has dedicated himself to advocacy and community empowerment. With the release of his latest book, his work has entered a new and intensified phase, reaffirming his commitment to make a meaningful impact through both his words and his actions.