The Cattlemen’s Beef Board (CBB) says that Tom Jones, Pottsville, AR, tendered his resignation as CBB chairman today. Jones also notified USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack of his resignation as a member of the CCB, citing personal and family reasons for his decision, including the deteriorating health of his father. Jones was elected CBB chairman in February of this year.

“I remain dedicated to the ideals of the checkoff and will be a strong supporter of the beef industry in the future,” Jones said in a statement. “However, there are times when decisions become very clear and choices are not hard to make. My faith, my family, and my farm come first. With my dad’s illness, both my family and my farm need more of my attention.”

Wesley Grau, CBB vice chair from Grady, NM, will lead the organization until the next convened board meeting, scheduled for Aug. 4 in Orlando, FL, the CBB says. At that time, the board will decide on further action.

Jones’ resignation comes on the heels of the resignation of Tom Ramey, CEO of the CBB, two weeks ago.