Leigh Jones, a renowned Chicago hairstylist who shaped the looks of numerous celebrities over a career spanning more than six decades, died Sept. 20 at the Ambassador Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in the Albany Park neighborhood. He was 81.

Born Floyd Leigh Jones in Kansas City, Kansas, in 1944, he moved with his family to Chicago at age four. After graduating from Westcott Vocational High School in 1960, Jones pursued further education at the University of Illinois Chicago, Roosevelt University, and Loop College before enrolling in the American School of Beauty Culture in 1962. He earned his hairstylist license two years later.

Jones broke ground early in his career as the first African American hired by noted stylist Jean-Luc Vercammen, then style director of the salon at Chicago’s I. Magnin department store. He subsequently worked at various prominent salons, including Boulevard Beauty Salon on North Michigan Avenue, Shears and Cheers on the Near North Side, Maximo Salon, and Jean Pierre Coiffures in Streeterville.

In 1983, Jones launched his own business, Leigh Jones Coiffures, initially located in the Gold Coast before relocating to West Oak Street. Over the years, he developed a devoted clientele that included high-profile figures such as Oprah Winfrey, Lena Horne, Heather Bilandic, Natalie Cole, Marlo Thomas, Barbara Eden, Deborah Norville, and Essee Kupcinet.

Winfrey first became a client of Jones in 1984 during her tenure as host of “A.M. Chicago.” Jones also provided hairstyling for a variety of magazine photo shoots, including for fashion designer Donna Karan and actress Diahann Carroll. Former Johnson Publishing Co. chairman and CEO Linda Johnson Rice described Jones as a “master colorist and stylist” and praised his ability to make clients feel valued.

Throughout his career, Jones maintained regular appointments with many clients, some of whom visited him weekly for years. He also worked as a commercial hairstylist for major hair care brands including Johnson Products, Alberto-Culver, Helene Curtis, Revlon, and Clairol.

Jones served as vice chair on the board of the Chicago Cosmetologists Association and judged at the Midwest Beauty Show. He was active in philanthropy, participating in fundraising events for causes such as multiple sclerosis and AIDS. Due to health concerns, he ceased professional work in 2023.

Known for his creativity, impeccable taste, and generosity, Jones was also an avid art collector. He is survived by his brother, the Rev. Morris Jones Sr. Memorial services have been held.