The entertainment and radio community is mourning the loss of legendary comedian, actress, writer, and radio personality Jetta “Ms. Dupree” Jones, who passed away on July 29, 2026, following a long illness. She was 73 years old.
Best known for her unforgettable portrayal of “Ms. Dupree” on the nationally syndicated The Tom Joyner Morning Show, Jones became one of the most beloved voices in Black radio. Her razor-sharp wit, hilarious storytelling, and unmistakable New Orleans charm made her a fan favorite for decades.
Born August 8, 1952, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Jones was the eldest daughter of the late Audrey Lieteau and Louis J. White. She graduated from Xavier University Preparatory School in 1970 before earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from Tulane University in 1974. After beginning her career as a corporate trainer for BellSouth, she eventually pursued her passion for comedy and entertainment full-time.
Jones joined The Tom Joyner Morning Show in 1994, where she occupied the show’s famous “funny chair” every Wednesday. She was also one of the creators and lead writers behind the immensely popular radio soap opera It’s Your World, helping shape its unforgettable characters, humor, and storylines.
Her portrayal of the wise-cracking, advice-giving voodoo priestess Ms. Dupree became one of the show’s most iconic characters and left an indelible mark on generations of listeners.
Beyond radio, Jones built an impressive career in television and film. She worked as one of the lead writers for The Marsha Warfield Show alongside legendary comedian Paul Mooney. As an actress, she appeared in films including Talkin’ Dirty After Dark (1991), Indecent Proposal (1993), CB4 (1993), Bulworth (1998), and the Academy Award-winning biopic Ray (2004). Her television credits included appearances on Murphy Brown, Coach, and Sister, Sister.
ones remained a respected figure throughout the entertainment industry despite ongoing health challenges. In September 2023, she was honored with the Living Legend Award at Hope Flood’s Comics Rock Convention, presented by her longtime friend and fellow comedian Marsha Warfield.
She was also a proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated, and was widely admired for mentoring others while continuing to inspire audiences with her humor and authenticity.
Following news of her passing, tributes poured in from friends, colleagues, and public officials. Louisiana State Representative Delisha Boyd wrote, “New Orleans lost a true legend. Rest in peace, Jedda Jones. The world knew her as ‘Ms. Dupree’; we knew her as family.”
Radio stations that carried The Tom Joyner Morning Show also honored Jones’ legacy, remembering the joy and laughter she brought to listeners across the country. Many reflected on her memorable community appearances, including Mardi Gras celebrations in her native Louisiana.
Jetta “Ms. Dupree” Jones leaves behind a remarkable legacy that spans radio, television, film, and comedy. Her ability to make audiences laugh while delivering wisdom with heart made her a true original whose influence will continue to be felt for generations.
The Y’all Know What family extends our heartfelt prayers and deepest condolences to the family, friends, colleagues, and countless fans of Jetta “Ms. Dupree” Jones. May her legacy continue to inspire laughter, love, and joy, and may she rest in eternal peace.
