HEARTFELT tributes have been paid to a Pershore centenarian who played an instrumental role in the local community.
Evelyn Jones, born in Astwood Road, Worcester, lived in Mill Lane and then Cherry Orchard, before moving to South Hayes Care Home eight years ago, where she passed away on May 6, aged 101.
Last year the former Pershore Carnival committee member, born in 1913, celebrated her 100th birthday by leading the procession through the town.
It was the first time someone had been allowed to lead in front of the fire engine, something carnival chairman Colin Shepherd told the Observer he would never forget.
“My abiding memory was last year when she was in her wheelchair and was waving to the 10,000 people that had lined the streets of Pershore,” he said.
“She was the lead in our carnival, she led us through the streets and you would not believe the amount of people who went up and said hello to her, and she remembered them all.
“She was lovely, she worked tirelessly and I can see her now sat in her office. She was a truly fantastic lady.”
Mrs Jones spent almost three decades working at Pershore High School and was secretary from 1948 to 1977.
On her 100th birthday last year, she was visited by former colleagues Shelia Smith and Sue Jeavons.
Then head girl Beth Goode, Jamie Smith, Bethany Ireland and headteacher Clive Corbett also attended the special event.
Mr Corbett told the Observer: “All at Pershore High School are very sad to learn of the recent passing of Evelyn Jones at the
age of 101.
“Evelyn became secretary here in the late 1940s, working until her retirement in 1977.
“She will be sadly missed and we would like to offer our condolences to Evelyn’s family.” he added.
