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ST. GEORGE — Former University of Utah quarterback Brandon Jones has died from injuries he sustained in a biking accident earlier this week.
Jones was critically injured Monday while riding his bicycle near St. George. He played for Utah from 1994 to 1996.
The day before, Jones had posted pictures on his Facebook page from a 22-year reunion of his U. teammates that he attended over the weekend during the Utes' football game at Rice Eccles Stadium.
"These guys are truly some great guys and I am honored to have been teammates with them playing for the best coach, Coach Mac. Big thanks to Mac and Vicky McBride for bringing this MAFU family together. We are all better men, husbands, and fathers because of you two. Much love to my MAFU family," he wrote.
MAFU referred to one of coach Ron McBride's favorite mantras, which stood for mental toughness, aggressiveness, fanatical effort and unity.
Jones' last post on his Facebook page before his death was a message honoring his wife.
"Such an awesome weekend with my best friend, Mitzi Woolstenhulme Jones. Had a great time hanging out with friends from 22 years ago! Would not have done it without you Mitzi, I love you more than words can express. Thanks for always being by my side through everything this life has thrown at us. Love you!"
On Facebook Thursday, friends and former teammates posted messages of condolence.
"My heart hurts to hear the pass of my Utah brother n teammate Brandon Jones. I am grateful that I got to know you … to your wife n kids n the rest of your family Ofa Lahi atu," wrote Sione Mahe.
Jones' former coach Ron McBride called Jones "ideal" in everything he did.
“He was the ideal teammate, the ideal player, ideal person, ideal husband, ideal father," McBride told KSL. "The whole thing; he had all of it. He passed way too soon, because he had so many things left he could do for people.”
Matt Heaton changed his profile picture on Facebook to a red "U" in honor of the former Ute.
"Brandon was such a great man. He came to our house twice with Mitzi to bring us coconut bread and jam. He was so helpful with our baby blessing. We felt tremendously welcomed into the ward. Thoughts and prayers are with his family!" wrote Ryan Ruud.
"Brandon Jones is a true example of what a man, husband, father should be! He is an example to us all of a great human being," friends wrote on a GoFundme page* set up to help pay for medical expenses.
Jones was described by some as the pride of Henefer. He graduated from North Summit High School.
Since his days of playing for the U., Jones had been involved in competitive bicycle racing.
On Tuesday, after Jones was injured and before his death, Bountiful Bicycle posted a message on its Facebook page.
"We are praying for Brandon, Mitzi and their family. In a world right now of so much bitterness and hatred, we are reminded of how fragile life is. Please be good to those around you and give the ones you love a hug and a kiss and make sure they know they are loved! Brandon is truly the salt of the earth and we all can learn from his example! God bless you, Brandon Jones!"
*KSL.com does not assure that the monies deposited to the account will be applied for the benefit of the persons named as beneficiaries. If you are considering a deposit to the account, you should consult your own advisors and otherwise proceed at your own risk.
