The TV world is mourning the loss of Ben Jones. The actor and former politician died Sunday at the age of 84 after suffering a heart attack. According to Variety, his wife, Alma Viator, shared the news in a Facebook post, along with a photo of Jones with his dog.

For many fans, Jones will forever be remembered as Cooter Davenport from The Dukes of Hazzard. But his life and career extended far beyond the cult series. After finding fame on television, he also went on to make his mark in U.S. politics.

Alma Viator Says Goodbye to Her Husband

Alma Viator shared deeply personal words following her husband’s death. “I lost the love of my life today. Ben passed from a massive heart attack."

She explained that Jones had been resting at home in his favorite armchair, waiting for the Atlanta Braves to face the New York Yankees.

In her tribute, Viator described her husband’s life as rich and fulfilling and emphasized how deeply he was loved. She also reflected on the enormous loss his death represents for his family, friends, and colleagues.

Ben Jones Played Cooter Davenport in 142 Episodes

In the cult series The Dukes of Hazzard, Jones portrayed mechanic Cooter Davenport, a close friend of the Duke family in Hazzard County. He appeared in 142 episodes, sharing the screen with Tom Wopat, John Schneider, Catherine Bach, Denver Pyle, Sorrell Booke, and Waylon Jennings.

The series ran for seven seasons from 1979 to 1985 and turned many of its cast members into household names on American television. Jones later reprised his role in the 1997 and 2000 film adaptations.

Tom Wopat Pays Tribute to His Former Co-Star

Tom Wopat also shared heartfelt words following the news of Jones’ death.

“The Dukes of Hazzard lost another integral part of their cast today. Ben Jones was a fine friend and a fierce advocate of all the best things we can offer in the entertainment business. He will be sorely missed,” Wopat wrote on Instagram, according to the report.

He added that Jones would be deeply missed. His tribute reflects the close bond the two actors shared, both as co-stars and friends.

From TV Star to U.S. Congress

Jones’ career extended well beyond Hollywood. In 1988, he ran for Congress in Georgia and won a seat representing the state’s 4th congressional district by a wide margin. He was re-elected in 1990, serving two terms in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Four years later, he lost his seat following redistricting and was subsequently defeated by Newt Gingrich.

Jones’ death has hit The Dukes of Hazzard fan community particularly hard. His passing comes after fellow cast member Rick Hurst died the previous year, marking another painful loss for the beloved series. With Jones gone, the show’s original cast has once again lost one of its most recognizable figures.