George was born in Victoria and grew up in Vancouver before graduating from Lakefield College School in Ontario. He married his beloved first wife Lou in 1954 and obtained his law degree from UBC in 1958. In 1973 George remarried and leaves behind the light of his life, Linda. He also leaves behind his adored sister Helen “H-Berg” Heaney; his devoted children with Lou and Linda, Lynne (Stewart), Wendy, Cate (Shane), Sue, Brett (Michelle), Scott (Kerry), Sara (Matt); eight grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and numerous other family members.
George practised law for over 50 years, most notably establishing the firm of Jones Emery where he specialized in tax litigation. George loved nothing more than a battle, taking on the “big guys” with delight, always fighting for the underdog. He worked tirelessly and relentlessly for his clients, often working pro bono. He firmly believed that access to the law was a right, which made him a fierce and passionate advocate, if not a wise businessman! George was able to end his illustrious career with the firm of Horne Coupar, to whom we are eternally grateful.
George was also passionate about sports, rugby in particular. Through his life, he started no less than four rugby clubs across Canada including the Ottawa Irish and the Velox Valhallians. He was instrumental in establishing the Canadian Rugby Foundation and the Braefoot Athletic Association. He coached or managed many baseball, soccer and rugby teams over the years and mentored countless people along the way.
George was a pillar of the Victoria community. He was an Honorary Patron of the Edercare Foundation as well as a past board President, he was a member of the Victoria Boxing Commission, and sat on countless other boards and commissions. Many years ago he was given the keys to the City of Victoria (which he promptly lost!). You could not walk down the street with George without someone stopping to say hello.
George acutely understood the unfairness of economic disparity and used his privilege to make a difference where he could. He was a strong believer in social justice and the concept of equity rather than equality. George tirelessly gave his time, his commitment, his expertise and his passion. He made a difference.
George will be missed by so many, no more so than his family. He was our anchor. He was truly one of a kind – there will never be another George Jones. To the very end, he kept his famous charm, sense of humour, love of the “f” word, and the indelible twinkle in his eye.
The care, support and love that the staff at Kiwanis Pavilion and the Cridge provided to George were true blessings to him and our family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Parkinson Canada, the George Jones Scholarship at the Canadian Rugby Foundation, the Kiwanis Pavilion, the Cridge Centre for the Family, or the Victoria Eldercare Foundation.
A Celebration of George’s Life will be held at a later date. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.mccallgardens.com.
23 Responses
Brett, your stories about your father were so vivid that they have stuck with us to this day. Our condolences to you and your extended family. May his memory continue to be a joy and solace for you.
Ruth Annis and Andy Wachtel
My Condolences to the family. George will be surely missed. He was such a guy. I am glad that I had the pleasure of meeting him through sports. Thank you and God bless rest in peace George.
Dear Linda and family,
I am so sorry to hear of George’s passing. My husband and I have known George,Linda and family back to the 70’s. He was such a great help and mentor to my husband and I for many years.He was such an amazing man! His character and sense of loyalty was one of a kind. Georges’s sense of humor was amazing! He will be truly missed. I do hope all the wonderful memories will bring some comfort for all his family. You all, are so blessed to have had, a life with this incredible guy!
I was sad to hear of George’s passing. This year has been a stressful one as a nurse but when I reflect back on my days with George at the Cridge I can’t help but smile. Every nurse has their favourites and George was one of mine. From his desire to learn French and play cards to help keep him sharp , to his laugh and love of his family. May he find peace .
My wife Carla and I have known George for over 50 years. He has been our lawyer and friend. Giving us such wonderful guidance both personally and in or business endeavours. I was so lucky to visit George just before the Covid lock down. We gave him a few sweets fron Pure Vanilla. Which he immediately satisfied his sweet tooth. Still had a laugh and a sparkle. We send our love and condolence to his family.
Ben and Carla
Sue, my heart goes out to you and your family at this time. My wish is that happy memories may give you comfort and smiles. xo
George changed our lives for the better, always questioning to make things better, he will be missed, our lives are better because of George
George was a great guy. He will be missed. He helped and influenced so many people. He had a great sense of humor.
Dear Jones Family,
We are sorry to hear about George’s passing and send our condolences to you all. George was a great lawyer and even a greater friend. We will miss him dearly and his horse racing stories.
Richard,Rod,Helen and Ryan Lee
Linda, Sue and all the Jones Family –
I am so sorry and offer my deepest sympathies on the loss of George. I will always remember his spiritedness – the twinkle in his eye, his humour and the love he had for his family. About 10 years ago I went into to Horne Coupar, and imagine my surprise to see George Jones still working! His sense of purpose and championing of others really was endless. He gave so much. I know he will be missed by so many in his vast community, but none more than all of you. May you be light in your heart with the beautiful memories of having had him so close in your life.