The story of Ray Jones, a talent taken too soon

The story of Ray Jones, a talent taken too soon [VIDEO]

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Death is a commonality we all share.

It causes us to feel sadness and pain, yet despite the negatives it can also bring people together. When looking at the passing of young athlete, this is clear.

Often thought to have more life than most, young, talented men and women have been tragically taken from many sporting arenas. Though, the communities they leave behind never take their passing lightly. They are remembered through tales of their exploits, praised through quotes of their character and honoured through celebration of the sports they loved.

This is the story of Ray Jones, just one of those young people gone too soon from this life.

One of Queens Park Rangers’ most promising talents, Ray Jones would have celebrated his 27th birthday in just a days’ time. But a tragic car accident in East Ham eight years ago denied Jones of this chance.

Jones was immensely talented, bursting into the first team at the age of 17. He was a true marvel to watch. Showing tenacity and cunning, Jones sought to put the ball in the net no matter the situation. His famous goal against Southampton demonstrated what could have been after he plucked the ball from Kelvin Davis and steered it home from the byline. Jones was even in line for the England U19s, having earned his place the year before his passing. He had a bright future ahead of him.

Unfortunately it was not to be.

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Ray Jones tragically passed away in 2007.

His death was sudden and unexpected. It was a moment that few fail to remember. If you were to ask most Rs fans, they would recall exactly where they were as news of Jones’ death arose. Many believed Jones to be not just a player but also a friend, a hero of their community. This belief gave them a great sense of connection with the young man.

The supporters’ sentiments reflect the nature of sporting clubs like QPR. They are places that value people and what sport, in this case, football, can do for them. The retirement of Jones’ number 31 jersey further demonstrated what members of QPR’s team and their community mean to the club. And though nothing could be done to ease the pain of his passing, this act of solidarity reminded people why they love football: people. For it is people who excite and dazzle crowds with effort and skill, people who show bravery, commitment and heart. People like Ray Jones.

Remembering Ray Jones is a tradition now at Rangers. Each year, Jones’s life is celebrated on 25 August. It is a timely reminder that we should appreciate every moment we have and everything we experience. And in a community, like QPR, or football or even sport in general, we have plenty of wonderful moments to experience.

RIP Ray Jones.

A moment in our lives, a lifetime in our hearts.

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