Jedda Jones obit

Jedda Jones, Beloved ‘Ms. Dupree’ of The Tom Joyner Morning Show Passes Away

 

She was not on the list.

Jedda Jones created an iconic character in 'Ms. Dupree' on the influential Tom Joyner Morning Show.

Jones' versatility and authenticity made her a respected performer across film, TV, and stand-up comedy.

Her work helped define an era of Black radio and inspired generations of listeners.

For generations of radio listeners, the unmistakable voice of “Ms. Dupree” was one of the highlights of The Tom Joyner Morning Show. With razor-sharp wit, impeccable comedic timing, and the ability to make audiences laugh while delivering hard-earned wisdom, actress and comedian Jedda Jones created one of the most beloved recurring characters in syndicated radio history.

Jones, who passed away July 29th, leaves behind a remarkable entertainment legacy that stretched across radio, film, television, and stand-up comedy. While she appeared in several acclaimed Hollywood productions, it was her unforgettable work as Ms. Dupree that cemented her place in Black radio culture and made her a household name among millions of listeners.

Born in 1952, Jones built an impressive acting career that included appearances in films showcasing her versatility in both comedic and dramatic roles. Yet no matter where her acting career took her, audiences always embraced the warmth, authenticity, and humor that became her trademark.

The Tom Joyner Morning Show

Her greatest impact, however, came through The Tom Joyner Morning Show, one of the most influential syndicated radio programs in Black America. Launched nationally in 1994, the show became a cultural institution that blended music, news, comedy, and conversations that resonated deeply with African American audiences across the country.

Among its unforgettable cast of personalities, Ms. Dupree stood out.

Jones transformed the character into more than just comic relief. Ms. Dupree was outspoken, quick with a comeback, and never afraid to tell it like it was. Whether she was hilariously checking someone in the studio, offering unsolicited advice, or delivering one liners that instantly became fan favorites, she brought an authenticity that made listeners feel like they knew her personally. She embodied the lovable, no nonsense auntie who could make you laugh one moment and leave you reflecting the next.

Her chemistry with Tom Joyner, Sybil Wilkes, J. Anthony Brown, and the rest of the cast helped create many of the show’s most memorable moments. Together, they built a program that entertained while celebrating Black culture, community, and conversation. Jones’ contributions helped make the morning show appointment listening for millions of Americans during its remarkable 25-year run.

Beyond the microphone, Jones remained respected throughout the entertainment industry for her professionalism and longevity. She was also honored by The HistoryMakers, which preserved her life story through an oral history interview recognizing her contributions to African American entertainment.

Although millions knew her best as the unforgettable Ms. Dupree on The Tom Joyner Morning Show, Jedda Jones also enjoyed a successful career on the big and small screen. The veteran actress appeared in a number of notable films throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, including Indecent Proposal, Bulworth, Shattered, Talkin’ Dirty After Dark, and the Academy Award-winning biopic Ray. Her television résumé was equally impressive, with guest appearances on popular series such as Martin, Moesha, The Parent ’Hood, ER, and The Jamie Foxx Show. Whether portraying a comedic scene stealer or a memorable supporting character, Jones brought warmth, authenticity, and impeccable timing to every role. Her ability to seamlessly transition between film, television, stand-up comedy, and radio showcased a rare versatility that earned her the respect of audiences and fellow entertainers alike.

As news of her passing spreads, countless listeners are remembering not just a talented performer, but a voice that became part of their daily routine for decades. Her work helped define an era of Black radio, and her performances continue to live on through fans who grew up with The Tom Joyner Morning Show.

Actress

Snatched (2014)

Snatched

4.3

Jedda

2014

 

Reagan Gomez-Preston, Darrin Dewitt Henson, and Persia White in Kiss the Bride (2010)

Kiss the Bride

3.4

Video

Rita

2010

 

Nicolas Cage and Eva Mendes in Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans (2009)

Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans

6.6

Civilian Aide

2009

 

The Final Destination (2009)

The Final Destination

5.1

Nurse

2009

 

Jeremy's Family Reunion (2005)

Jeremy's Family Reunion

2.8

Video

Grandma Pearl (as Jedda 'Ms. Dupree' Jones)

2005

 

The Tom Joyner Show (2005)

The Tom Joyner Show

6.9

TV Series

Miss Dupree (2005-????)

2005

 

Treasure n tha Hood (2005)

Treasure n tha Hood

3.3

Ms. Minnie

2005

 

Clifton Powell, Choppa, Troy Anders, Chauvon Higgins, Kane and Abel, and Delano Mitchell in Da Block Party (2004)

Da Block Party

2.7

Video

Momma (as Ms. Dupree)

2004

 

Jamie Foxx in Ray (2004)

Ray

7.7

Mercedes

2004

 

Sanaa Lathan, Mary Alice, Tyler Christopher, Chi Muoi Lo, Lauren Tom, and Paul Winfield in Catfish in Black Bean Sauce (1999)

Catfish in Black Bean Sauce

6.6

Agnes

1999

 

Tamera Mowry-Housley, Tim Reid, Jackée Harry, and Tia Mowry in Sister, Sister (1994)

Sister, Sister

6.4

TV Series

CharlotteMarjorie

1994–1998

3 episodes

 

Warren Beatty in Bulworth (1998)

Bulworth

6.8

Woman in Church #2

1998

 

Cosmic Slop (1994)

Cosmic Slop

6.3

TV Movie

Woman in Audience (segment "Space Raiders")

1994

 

Shelley Fabares, Craig T. Nelson, Bill Fagerbakke, Kenneth Kimmins, and Jerry Van Dyke in Coach (1989)

Coach

7.1

TV Series

Susie

1994

1 episode

 

Tall Hopes (1993)

Tall Hopes

7.4

TV Series

Mrs. Lawrence

1993

2 episodes

 

Demi Moore, Woody Harrelson, and Robert Redford in Indecent Proposal (1993)

Indecent Proposal

6.1

Craps Woman

1993

 

Chris Rock in CB4 (1993)

CB4

6.3

Waitress

1993

 

Martin Lawrence, Tom Lister Jr., Vanessa Hampton, Robin Montague, and John Witherspoon in Talkin' Dirty After Dark (1991)

Talkin' Dirty After Dark

5.1

Ruby Lin

1991

 

Tom Berenger, Greta Scacchi, and Bob Hoskins in Shattered (1991)

Shattered

6.5

Sadie

1991

 

Sheryl Lee Ralph, Morris Day, and Phyllis Yvonne Stickney in New Attitude (1990)

New Attitude

8.2

TV Series

Celina

1990

1 episode

 

Writer

BET's Comicview (1992)

BET's Comicview

6.6

TV Series

writer

2005

1 episode

 

Jeremy's Family Reunion (2005)

Jeremy's Family Reunion

2.8

Video

written by

2005

 

Townsend Television (1993)

Townsend Television

7.7

TV Series

writer

1993

10 episodes

 

Costume and Wardrobe Department

Jeremy's Family Reunion (2005)

Jeremy's Family Reunion

2.8

Video

wardrobe

2005

 

Producer

Jeremy's Family Reunion (2005)

Jeremy's Family Reunion

2.8

Video

associate producer (as Jedda 'Ms. Dupree' Jones)

2005

 

Self

BET's Comicview (1992)

BET's Comicview

6.6

TV Series

Self - Comedian

2005

1 episode

 

Yolanda Adams, Idris Elba, Nona Gaye, Omar Gooding, Fred Hammond, Boris Kodjoe, Donnie McClurkin, Clifton Powell, Keshia Knight Pulliam, Tamyra Gray, Hezekiah Walker, and Martha Munizzi in The Gospel (2005)

The Gospel

5.1

Self (as Miss Dupree)

2005

 

The Tom Joyner Sky Show

TV Series

Self

2005

1 episode

 

Chez Whoopi (1991)

Chez Whoopi

5.7

TV Movie

Self

1991