In Memory: CPF Secretary Treasurer Dallas Jones
It is with the greatest sadness that California Professional Firefighters and Los Angeles County Firefighters Local 1014 announce the passing of one of the giants of the firefighter labor movement -- CPF Secretary-Treasurer Dallas Jones.
Jones, who served 32 years with Los Angeles County Fire Department and Local 1014, died Saturday after a valiant battle with lung cancer.
From the moment he came to the fire service, Brother Jones made it his calling to serve those with whom he served. Half of his 32 years as a member of Local 1014 were spent as its president, and Dallas guided his local through some of its most tumultuous and successful times in the 1980s and 1990s.
While president of Local 1014, Brother Jones served the first of two tenures as CPF Secretary-Treasurer, a post he held from 1994 until 1999. During this time, he also served as a vice president of the California Labor Federation and the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor. He also served on the State Board of Fire Services.
In 1999, Dallas Jones was tapped by Governor Gray Davis to serve as the Director of the Office of Emergency Services. In that post, he not only directed the state’s response to numerous natural and human-caused emergencies, but also earned a reputation as one of the nation’s most influential emergency management experts.
In 2004, Jones returned to his most cherished commitment -- the fire service labor movement. He won election for a second time as CPF Secretary Treasurer that year, and continued in that post until his death Saturday.
Dallas is survived by his wife, Lily, his sons Brian and Michael and daughter Anna Dallas.
"Dallas Jones died as he lived -- serving his brother and sister firefighters," said CPF President Lou Paulson. "His contribution to our profession is unsurpassed. He has rightfully earned the gratitude of every man and woman on the front lines. Our thoughts and prayers are with Lily and the family at this time of great loss."
"Dallas Jones' legacy as 1014's president, and what he meant for us all in the fire service, is beyond a simple summary," said Dave Gillotte, Local 1014 president. "Dallas took this membership to levels of unity, safety, compensation, recognition, and accomplishment that no other man could have done. He was our leader, our mentor, and our friend.His passing is a deep loss for all of us."
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has ordered Capitol flags to be flown at half-mast in Jones' honor. Click HERE to read the governor's statement.
Information regarding memorial services and gifts are pending. For now, condolences to the family can be sent to:
Lily Jones
c/o California Professional Firefighters
1780 Creekside Oaks, Suite 200
Sacramento, California 95833.