Dukes of Hazzard Star Ben Jones Dies at 84: Remembering Cooter the Mechanic and Former Congressman

Ben Jones, the man who brought the beloved character Cooter to life onDukes of Hazzard, passed away Sunday at his home in Georgia. He was 84. His wife Alma Viator shared the news, saying he died of a massive heart attack while resting in his favorite chair, waiting for the Braves to take on the Yankees. For generations of country fans, Jones was the dependable, quick-witted mechanic who always had the Duke boys’backs.

But Jones’s story didn’t end when the General Lee’s engine cooled. He successfully ran for Congress in 1988 and served Georgia’s 4th District for two terms. Later, he led the state’s film commission and was instrumental in building Georgia into the production powerhouse it is today. Co-star Tom Wopat led tributes, calling Jones“a fine friend and a fierce advocate of all the best things we can offer in the entertainment business.”

His death marks the end of an era for fans of the classic show, and it’s a reminder of the mark one person can leave both on screen and in their community. Do you have a favorite Cooter moment or aDukes of Hazzardmemory you hold close? Share it with us in the comments.