Jones, Ethel Deborah-Lee (June 25, 1954 - February 17, 2012)
Debby Jones, educator, mentor and friend, passed away suddenly and peacefully at approximately 4:20 PM, February 17, 2012, in QEII Hospital, Halifax, N. S. surrounded by family and friends. Born and raised on Ford Street (affectionately known as the "Marsh") in Truro, she was the daughter of the late Willena Beatrice and the late Elmer Alvin Jones.
She completed the Transition Year Program (TYP), obtained her Bachelor of Arts and her Bachelor of Education. She continued her formal academic scholastic education by working on her Masters degree in French all at Dalhousie University, Halifax, N.S. She was the recipient of many scholarships, awards, bursaries and citations. Prior to studying and teaching in France, Debby worked for several years at Canada Employment Student Manpower and was a Housemother to many young women at Dalhousie University. Debby taught in Truro, France, and Halifax metro. Several years ago, she retired from teaching. Fueled by her lifelong affection for children and youth, she passionately campaigned to save St. Pat’s-Alexandra School in Halifax from education cuts that threatened to close the school where she served as vice-principal. Debby was a devote Christian with an unwavering faith in God. Debby had the unique ability of seeing death as opening a gateway to heaven. She was a lifelong member of Zion United Baptist Church, Truro, N.S., former member Pilgrim Baptist Church, Winnipeg, and attended Cornwallis Street Baptist Church, while in Halifax. Debby loved music! She sang and toured for many years with the acclaimed acappella group Four the Moment. They performed at numerous events and festivals, including Expo 67 in Montreal, recorded music and a soundtrack.
She had a beautiful soprano voice and played the clarinet and flute. A great lover of travel, Debby recently returned from a cruise in the eastern Caribbean. Debby was a natural leader, and a very caring and compassionate person, who spent much of her time helping others and connecting people. If you were in need, you could always expect a supportive phone call from her to encourage you. Debby is survived by her sisters Marie Francis (Truro, N.S.), Janis Jones (Burnaby, B.C.), Luella and Lynn Jones (Halifax), brothers Burnley "Rocky"(Sharon) (Halifax),and Roger (Burnaby, BC).
Debby was predeceased by her parents, sisters Elaine Maxwell, Wilma Jones and brother Alvin Jones. Visitation on Wednesday evening February 22, 7:00 PM at Colchester Community Funeral Home, 512 Willow Street, Truro, N.S. will be a musical celebration of Debby's life. Visitors are encouraged to bring musical instruments and to participate in the singing. Funeral service will be held Thursday, February 23, 2:00 PM at the Colchester Community Funeral Home, 512 Willow Street, Truro, N.S. Live web-casting of the service will begin at 1:58 pm (Atlantic Time) on Thursday for those who cannot attend the ceremonies at www.colchestercommunity.com
Special thanks to the staff at the QEII and to Dr. Amy Gillis. Debby has been cremated and her internment will be at a later date in the Robie Street Cemetery, Truro, N.S. Donations to: Zion United Baptist Church, 458 Prince Street, Truro, N.S., B2N 1E7, Cornwallis Street Baptist Church, P.O. Box 47046 Gottingen Street, Halifax, N.S., B3K 5Y2 or a charity of choice.
By special request, family flowers only.