Ohio State associate athletic director Bill Jones died today at OSU Medical Center of an apparent heart attack. He was 48.

Jones, who was in his 14th year with the OSU athletics department, was in charge of ticketing.

“We have lost a dear friend, a wonderful co-worker and a great ambassador for Ohio State,” athletic director Gene Smith said in a statement. “His genuine enthusiasm, calm demeanor and lifelong love for the Buckeyes made him a valuable part of every project he touched. Our family is in shock today. Our loss is a profound one. Our prayers and thoughts are with the Jones family in this time of sadness and loss.”

Jones was a Columbus native. He earned a bachelor's degree in finance from Ohio State in 1986 and a master's in sports administration from Ohio University in 1991. For the next seven years, he worked as director of operations and media for the PGA's Memorial Tournament as well as other professional golf events.

He joined the OSU athletics staff in 1998. In 2009, he was named associate athletics director for external affairs.

Jones is survived by his parents, Jim and Linda Jones, and a sister, Lynnae. Jim Jones was OSU athletics director from 1987-94.

Funeral arrangements are pending.

brabinowitz@dispatch.com