Veronica Ethel Jones

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our dear mum, Veronica Ethel Jones (nee White), affectionately known as Rona. A longtime resident of Barrie, Ontario, Rona passed away peacefully at Roberta Place Long-Term Care on Sunday, October 4, 2026, at approximately 7:38 p.m., in her 98th year, with her two children, Graham and Vicki, devotedly by her side.

Rona was predeceased by her beloved husband, Edward Harris Jones, on January 20, 1997. Their love and the life they built together remained an important part of her story. Born in Stoke Mandeville, England, Rona immigrated to Canada by boat in 1956 with her husband and her best friend, Cynthia, beginning a new chapter of life for them all.

She was a devoted and loving mum to Graham Harris Jones (Cindy) and Vicki Jones, and a cherished Nanny to Nicole, Jessica, Chenley, Kelby and Riley. Thrilled to be a Great-Nanny to Kinley, Ayla, and Elliot. Rona was the sixth of nine children. She was predeceased by her sisters, Joan, Norma, Kathleen and Molly, and her brothers, Francis, Rob, and John. Her brother Peter is well and resides in Australia.

Those who knew Rona will remember a woman who seemed to carry a smile with her wherever she went. She approached life with a cheerful spirit, rarely complained, and never seemed to have an unkind word for anyone. Of course, one of Rona’s favourite simple pleasures was a good cup of tea. Everyone who knew her understood just how much she enjoyed one. Whenever she was offered a cup, her familiar response was always, “That would be lovely”.

Rona had many interests and talents, but tennis was perhaps her greatest sporting love. She was a very good player and, even on the hottest days in Florida, could often be found out on the court. She also enjoyed playing Bridge and was a formidable opponent, making sure that winning was never quite so easy for those sitting across the table from her.

Her love and pride for her family were evident in everything she did. Rona made a point of attending her children’s and grandchildren’s activities, cheering them on through hockey, baseball, figure skating, gymnastics, dance and so many other accomplishments. At home, she enjoyed the quieter pleasures of life, including puzzles, crosswords and watching her favourite television programs, Jeopardy, Wheel of Fortune, and Coronation Street. She also loved playing charades with the children, sharing laughter and creating wonderful memories.

In their earlier years together, Rona and Edward enjoyed going to musicals in downtown Toronto, often making a special evening of it with a nice dinner at Honest Ed’s before the show. They were also members of a bowling league, attending weekly and enjoying the friendship and camaraderie that came with it. Edward loved making his mum’s Welsh cakes, and Rona would lend a helping hand by carefully weighing and measuring the ingredients. These simple moments of togetherness were part of the life they shared, filled with love.

In her later years, Rona continued to find joy in being surrounded by others. She loved socializing, and whenever music began to play, it was often time to dance. Even when she could no longer get up onto her feet, she would happily move her arms to the music and sing along. Rona lived with dementia for four and a half years while residing at Roberta Place. She fell two and half years ago, healed well after major surgery, however that ultimately became the beginning of a rapid decline. Throughout her time at the home, she became a favourite among so many members of the staff, who cared for her and grew deeply attached to her. It comes as no surprise that her passing has left many of them heartbroken; she will never be forgotten.

Rona radiated beauty from the inside out. Her kindness, gentle heart and bright spirit touched the lives of so many, and her legacy will live on in the countless memories and people she leaves behind. If there is one thing we could all take away from Rona’s life, it would be kindness. She showed us that happiness can be found in the simplest things, that a smile can brighten someone’s day, and that treating others with warmth and compassion is one of life’s greatest gifts. She was a gem, the finest treasure, and "our" prize. If everyone could be just a little kinder, what a wonderful world it would be.

Mum, you fought so hard to stay with us until there wasn’t much left of you to fight, so we fought for you, but you were too tired. So just as you would say to us children, and now we say to you, “sleep well”. We will miss you and love you forever.
-Graham and Vicki

Psalm 34:18 – “The Lord is Close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

Family and friends are invited to the Innisfil Funeral Home (7910 Yonge Street, Innisfil) on Saturday, November 28, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. for a memorial service. All are invited to stay afterwards for a time of fellowship, where light refreshments will be served and fond memories and stories of Veronica can be shared.