David Jones, associate director of bands and director of the Big Purple marching band, died Saturday, and he will be honored at the ACU Band Spring Concert on Tuesday.

Dr. Jeanine Varner, provost, notified faculty, staff and students on Sunday morning that Jones had taken his own life the night before.

Jones arranged music for the Big Purple, conducted the concert band and taught instrumental music education courses, according to his faculty biography on the Department of Music Web site. He is survived by his wife, Emily, and a seventh grade son.

Jones earned his bachelor’s degree from Lipscomb University in instrumental music education and business management, and earned his master’s degree in music education from Belmont University. Jones was also a doctoral candidate at the University of Alabama.

Those who knew Jones said he had an infectious, easygoing and friendly personality that put a smile on the faces of everyone around him and impacted those with whom he taught and interacted.

Dr. Sean Pullen, director of choral activities, described Jones as a supportive, positive person in the Department of Music and on campus.

“He was a support as far as the instrumental department; he supported the wind ensemble and the band more than anything,” Pullen said. “He was a behind-the-scenes kind of guy, although he was a big part of the Big Purple band and directed that in a major way. I never knew David to not have a smile on his face.”

Dan Mitchell, adjunct instructor of guitar, worked across the hall from Jones in the Williams Performing Arts Center and said he remembers sitting next to Jones during the Homecoming Musical.

“We were up there every night of the week, and he couldn’t have been more help to me,” he said. “He was really nice, and I know he was an outstanding musician.”

Mitchell said although he and Jones did not work with one another aside from the Homecoming Musical, he remembers a kind, helpful man.

“He was real good to me, and his students loved him.”

Clinton Morgan, junior music education major from Baird, said Jones was his trombone instructor.

“Mr. Jones was an unforgettable friend and mentor to many,” Morgan said. “His spirit will never cease to influence the way we approach and perform music.”

Morgan said he hopes the ACU community will continue to pray for Jones’ family.

A memorial service will take place at 1 p.m. Saturday  at the Williamson County Memorial Gardens Funeral Home in Franklin, Tenn. In addition, the Music Department will present its annual Spring Concert in Jones’ honor at 8 p.m. in Cullen Auditorium on Tuesday. The free event is open to the public and more information is available by calling 674-2199.