Howell cheer director remembered for energetic personality, love for family

HOWELL — A local cheer director is being remembered for her energetic personality, unwavering support for the athletes she coached and love for her family.

Dana Jones, 36, died Thursday, June 6, according to her obituary. Jones, of Fowlerville, was the cheer director for the Howell Area Junior Football League.

Jones became cheer director last fall, but served as finance director prior to that, according to League Vice President Chuck Moubray. In a post on social media, HAJFL described Jones as the “vibrant heart and soul” of the league. 

“Dana was a very happy, smiling, energetic person — always saw the best in people. ... Very encouraging, down-to-earth,” Moubray said. “Always a hug and kind words for anyone.” 

As cheer director, Jones was tasked with selecting coaches and mentoring them to lead the league’s cheer teams. She also assisted coaches with creating cheer routines and practice plans.

Jones was willing to help with any cheer team in the league, Moubray said. HAJFL has eight teams, with more than 165 cheerleaders participating. 

“She really grew the department not only with size by numbers, but also with the coaching," Moubray said. "Everything she did was above and beyond what was needed."

HAJFL hosted a candlelight vigil June 9 at Three Fires Elementary School. There were roughly 300 attendees. Cheerleaders from third graders to college students shared memories about Jones without being asked to do so, Moubray said.

“No matter what challenges life threw her way, Dana faced them head-on with an unwavering positivity that inspired us all," Moubray said at the vigil.

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Jones is survived by her husband, Michael, and two children, Dane and Michaela. 

“She put her family first always,” Moubray said. “I don’t know any school event she wasn’t at for her kids.” 

Moubray said HAJFL plans to memorialize Jones in a variety of ways. The league hopes to create wristbands in Howell school colors with “#DoItForDana” on them. The organization also hopes to create a scholarship fund in Jones’ name for high school cheerleaders going to college. 

“Our hearts go out to Dana's family during this incredibly difficult time,” Moubray wrote social media. “We pledge to honor her memory by carrying on her legacy of joy, kindness and unwavering dedication to our athletes.” 

— Contact reporter Evan Sasiela at esasiela@livingstondaily.com. Follow him on Twitter @SalsaEvan.