Mr Jones was a keen supporter of the 2003 invasion of Iraq, and pushed for the name change in protest against France’s opposition to the war.
But he later had a complete change of heart, becoming one of the most vocal critics of the war in his party.
His office confirmed that he died on 10 February, his 76th birthday.
Mr Jones represented his district for 34 years, first in the North Carolina state legislature, then in Congress.