Robert Earl Jones (February 3 1910 – September 7 2006) was an American actor and the father of actor James Earl Jones. While born in Mississippi, the actual location of his birth is unclear as some sources indicate Senatobia, while others suggest nearby Coldwater. Additionally, his date of birth has been reported by different sources as anywhere from 1900 to 1911. The most likely date is 1910 as reported by the United States Social Security Administration.
Father of James Earl Jones and Matthew Earl Jones, and had one grandson.
Ran in the New York City Marathon several times, including in 1996! (source: New York Amsterdam News).
Was at one time a boxer.
Dropped out of school in the third grade to work as a sharecropper. Also worked on the railroad until the Depression caused him to lose his job.
One-time sparring partner for world heavyweight champion Joe Louis in 1937.
Was blacklisted in the early 1950s and called before the House Un-American Activities Committee because of his involvement in the leftist movement of the late 1930s.
Honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Black Theatre Festival; also received an Oscar Micheaux Award and was inducted into the Black Filmmakers Hall of Fame.
Divorced twice.
Had a deep, mellifluous voice like that of his son.
Appeared on stage with his son in "Infidel Caesar" (1962), "Moon on a Rainbow Shawl" (1962) and "Of Mice and Men" in 1967.
