Dr. Jerrel W. Jones, founder and CEO of Courier Communications, and a prominent figure in Wisconsin’s media landscape, and the first Black man in America to concurrently own a radio station and newspaper, died June 4 at age 85, according to a June 11, 2025 story about Jones in the Milwaukee Community Journal.
Jones was the owner of the Milwaukee Courier weekly newspaper and WNOV 860/106.5 FM radio.
In 1964, 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 Courier as a trusted source of news and information.
In 1986, Jones further expanded his media influence by launching WNOV 860AM, later adding 106.5 FM to reach a broader audience. 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.
The Courier will publish a special tribute edition in July.
