Veteran honored in Huntington Beach
Longtime USA amateur boxing official Richard “Dick” Jones was honored at a December 14 “Celebration of Life” held in Huntington Beach, Calif.
Born on September 12, 1939, Jones was a former fighter and a beloved USA Amateur Boxing (USAB) official and treasurer with the Southern California Local Boxing Committee (LBC 33). I saw him working countless amateur shows around the Southland. Known for his classic matchup board of bouts and no-nonsense personality, he was well respected by his peers and thousands of young fighters through the decades. His area included six counties: Los Angeles, Ventura, Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange and Santa Barbara.
He passed away on November 11, 2024 after a valiant battle against cancer. He was 85 years old. I had last seen Dick in August at coach Fausto De La Torres’ Pasadena Boxing Club show at City Hall. While we caught up between matches, Dick spoke of his illness and told me he was still working out every day as it helped ease his pain. I had a nice long chat with him as he regaled me with stories about back east and all the boxing through the years. The boxing aficionado knew tons of amateurs who grew up to become Olympians and champions in the professional ranks. Jones witnessed lots of Silver Gloves, Golden Gloves, PAL championships, Junior Olympics, Blue and Gold tournaments, etc. He witnessed Oscar De La Hoya, Fernando Vargas, Shane Mosley, Randy Caballero, Ryan Garcia, Jose Navarro, Javier Molina and Oscar Molina and myriad of other local kids who became Olympian medalists, pro champs and stars in the sport.
And the USAB vet never let his passion for boxing fade; he even laced up in the Masters Division against his fellow senior opponents in their seventies! He was a very unique individual and a one-of-a-kind man.
And his crew of associates, volunteer officials, former fighters, boxing coaches, family and friends all gathered at the Jones family home on Saturday, December 14. They paid tribute to the boxing stalwart and shared special memories and remembrances with each other during this special “Celebration of Life.” There were photos, videos, and souvenirs showcasing a full life–and a life well lived. Joining the memorial were Joe Zanders, Pat Zanders, Steve Harriman, Steve Harpst, Javier Mora, Jarret Jeter, Cliff Rayman, David Gonzalez, Hector Morales, Jairo Gonzalez and many more.
The Southern California Association’s LBC 33 has been a loyal and dedicated group though the years with President Joe Zanders, Chief of Officials/Chair Delilah Rico, Vice President Raymond Morales, Secretary Pat Zanders, Assistant Chief of Officials Michele Serna, the late Dominic Serna, Sam Larios, Stella Livingston, Sonya Livingston, the late Don Livingston and so many more.
There was a huge outpouring of love and respect for “Mr. Jones” once the news spread of his passing.
Jones really was a huge part of the amateur boxing circuit in SoCal. The chairman mentored and encouraged countless boxers and trainers through his long stint with USAB. The humble official was instrumental in shaping the lives and careers of the youth. And many times, his “good deeds” flew under the radar as he kept his generosity and kindness very discreet. Local boxing trainer Danny Zamora mentioned to me that Dick would often help out underprivileged kids who needed a boost by buying a book or other things they may have needed. Others also told me of how Mr. Jones often lent a helping hand to those in need.
During the live boxing shows, he was known as a stern figure who ran a tight ship. But if you had the privilege of getting to know him, Dick had a great sense of humor and was also a classy and kind gentleman.
And now he is gone. He will certainly leave a large void in the LBC 33 landscape.
But Dick will be reunited with his beloved wife Maggie who passed away from cancer in 2018.
Condolences to the Jones family.
Rest in peace, Champ!
Photos by Steve Harpst and Michele Chong
