Ben Jones, the actor who became a household name as mechanic Cooter Davenport on the classic television series The Dukes of Hazzard, died on Sunday, August 9, 2026. He was 84 years old. His wife, Alma Viator, confirmed the news in a social media post, sharing that Jones suffered a massive heart attack while at home. The passing of the actor-turned-politician has prompted many to look back at his life, particularly his long marriage and his role as a father.
Married to Alma Viator for Over Three Decades
Ben Jones was married to Alma Viator for 33 years. The couple tied the knot on October 10, 1992. Viator was by his side until his final moments. She announced his death on Facebook on Sunday, sharing the sad news with the public.
In her post, Viator described Jones as the “love of my life”. She wrote that he was at home, resting in his favorite chair, waiting to watch the Atlanta Braves play the New York Yankees when he suffered the heart attack.
“I lost the love of my life today. Ben passed from a massive heart attack. He was home resting in his favorite chair waiting for the Braves to come on and whoop the Yankees. Ben had the most amazing, rich, full life. He loved and was loved by so many. He will be missed. I loved him so so much.”
The couple’s marriage lasted more than three decades, a significant part of Jones’s life that included his later acting projects, his political career, and his business ventures.
Ben Jones’s Children: Rachel and Walker
Jones was a father to two children: a daughter named Rachel and a son named Walker. These children came from his previous relationships before he married Viator.
While Jones kept much of his family life away from the public eye, his role as a father was an important part of who he was. His children, along with his wife, are among the survivors he leaves behind. The actor’s family life, though not always in the spotlight, remained a steady part of his journey through Hollywood and politics.
From Cooter Davenport to Congressman
Ben Jones was born on August 30, 1941, in North Carolina. He became a familiar face to television audiences for his role as Cooter Davenport, the friendly mechanic and honorary member of the Duke family. He appeared in 142 episodes of The Dukes of Hazzard, which ran for seven seasons from 1979 to 1985.
Jones later moved into politics. He was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives for Georgia’s Fourth Congressional District in 1988 and served two terms until 1993.
His acting career also included roles in films like Smokey and the Bandit and Moonrunners. He returned to his famous role in TV movies and even voiced the character in video games.
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Tributes from Co-Stars and Fans
Following the news of his death, tributes poured in from former co-stars. Tom Wopat, who played Luke Duke on the series, shared a tribute on social media.
“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… Denver Pyle frequently said to Ben, ‘I’m not your Uncle Jesse!’ But I feel like we lost a Duke cousin today.”
Fans of the classic show also expressed their sadness online, remembering Jones for the joy he brought to the screen as the lovable Cooter. His death came just weeks before what would have been his 85th birthday.
Jones’s life was a mix of Hollywood success and public service. He is survived by his wife, Alma Viator, and his two children, Rachel and Walker.
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