Born in Ottawa, ON, 5th daughter of the late Amy (Scott) and Lt. Col. John James (Jack) Harris, departed this life at her retirement residence in Victoria, BC at the age of 102. Predeceased by her husband Alvin Burns Jones in 1998, her sisters and brothers-in-law Effie (Edward Lawrence), Edna (Alex James, Archie Sims), Grace (Edgar Sibbitt), Marjory (Jack Hollebone), Eileen (Dr. Pierre Wolfe), Betty (John Kirby) and Joan (Rex Carr). Survived by her daughters and sons-in-law Heather, Eileen (Efstratios Zouros) and Lynda (Guy Charron); grandchildren Nikki Partridge, Jean-Guy Charron (Jenny), Christopher Charron (Amy) and Sean Charron (Jayne); six great grandchildren Kody, Quintin, Ayden, Tristan, Bryant and Mason Charron; nieces and nephews across Canada, and extended family around the world.
Avenel’s first 12 years were spent in Halifax, NS and Roseneath, PEI, before the family was transferred back to Ottawa. After graduation from Normal School, she taught for two years in one-room schools at Plevna and Rosenthal in the upper Ottawa Valley. When WWII arrived, she returned to Ottawa to become a government clerk, retiring from that position to become a full-time homemaker once the family expanded. After Alvin retired, they moved to Victoria to be near her mother and several of her sisters. She was active in church activities throughout her life until her later years, and was a member of Rainbow Girls, CGIT, and UCW, taking her turn at leadership roles.
Thanks to all who contributed their skills and care so that she was able to enjoy a long and active life – physicians, nurses, support workers, and the staff of Somerset House and Amica on the Gorge. There will be no service at this time due to Covid restrictions and the difficulty for family and friends to travel to such an event. A future gathering of family to celebrate her life is anticipated.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Amelia
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Terry David and Terry Hutton of Pietermaritzburg in South Africa send our condolences to Heather, Eileen, Lynda and families as well as friends.
We were privileged to meet Avenel on a number of occasions both in Canada and South Africa, happy memories of a lovely lady.
I hope that all the memories you have of Avenel will give a measure of comfort as you remember and grieve for your loved one.
Sincere condolences and heartfelt thoughts sent to all the family of dear Avenel, from distant relatives in Yorkshire, England. We never met however I have heard a lot about what a lovely, special lady she was. I hope your precious memories continue to make the whole family smile. Love Amelia Chermside and family.