Former Kentucky Gov. Brereton C. Jones passes away at 84

Brereton C. Jones, Kentucky’s governor from 1991-95 and lieutenant governor from 1987-91, has passed away at the age of 84.

Governor Jones moved to Kentucky in the early 1970’s from his native West Virginia, where he had served in the West Virginia House of Delegates. He founded Airdrie Stud in Woodford County in 1972, a farm that to this day still operates as a renowned Thoroughbred breeding operation.

As governor, Jones pushed the legislature to create an ethics commission for executive branch officials and employees. A major priority for Jones’ administration was improving access to health care and controlling the cost of health coverage. But the initiative, which essentially was a push for universal health care in Kentucky, fell short of passage in the General Assembly.

Following his time in office, Jones was instrumental in forming the Kentucky Equine Education Project (KEEP), an advocacy organization promoting the state’s signature equine industry and all the economic benefits that it brings to Kentucky. To this day, the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce works with KEEP in supporting legislation to strengthen and protect the equine industry in the Commonwealth.

“Governor Jones was a kind and passionate Kentuckian, who dedicated much of his life to moving the Commonwealth and its people forward,” said Ashli Watts, president and CEO of the Kentucky Chamber. “We appreciate his commitment and service, and join in offering our prayers and condolences to his family.”

Gov. Andy Beshear’s administration has said the family of Gov. Jones has asked for privacy at this time, but that more details would be shared at a later date.