Ron Jones passed away at home on Sunday, 26 January 2025, at the age of 79. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Sue, his sons Andrew and Matt, his grandson Edwin, granddaughters Page and Lila, and his great-granddaughter Florence. He is also survived by his brother Edwin and his sister Sue. He was predeceased by his sister Jean.

Born on 29 May 1945, Ron grew up alongside his brother and sisters, navigating a childhood that was not always easy. Through those early years, he developed the resilience and independence that would define much of his life. At just 15, he began his career in the kitchen at the prestigious Dorchester Hotel on Park Lane, London. His talent and creativity quickly shone through, earning him awards for his innovative approach to cuisine. This passion eventually led him to run his own restaurant in Ross-on-Wye. Over the years, his expertise in hospitality gave him the privilege of catering for and meeting celebrities and members of royalty, both in England and South Africa. One of his most treasured memories was having the opportunity to chat with Nelson Mandela, a moment he held dear for the rest of his life.

In the early 1980s, Ron and his family moved to South Africa, where he took on new opportunities managing hotels and restaurants. In Empangeni, Zululand, he was able to combine his love of animals and business, opening a pet shop that he ran for many years. His passion for animals extended beyond the pet shop—he kept many birds over the years, including parrots and parakeets, having shown birds in his younger days. Later, he went on to manage a well-known bird park near Johannesburg, a popular tourist attraction where visitors could see a wide range of exotic species up close. His work at the park led to television appearances, where he spoke about the animals under his care, and some of the birds even featured in commercials.

Alongside his love for birds, Ron had a deep fascination with tropical fish, particularly the many varieties of plecostomus, which he took great pride in collecting. His tanks were always carefully maintained, filled with a diverse array of species that he enjoyed observing and tending to.

After many years in South Africa, Ron returned to the UK to be closer to his grandchildren. Retiring at 60, he embraced another lifelong passion—plants—spending his days cultivating greenery and enjoying the simple pleasures of gardening.

Ron was a natural storyteller, collecting and sharing tales from his rich and varied life. His deep appreciation for African culture earned him the affectionate nickname ‘Mzilikazi,’ after the 19th-century Zulu king known for his leadership and spirit of independence. He was also honoured with the title of ‘White Zulu,’ a testament to the deep connections he formed with the people and places that shaped his journey.

Beyond his many interests, Ron’s greatest pride was his family. He was incredibly proud of his sons and grandchildren and was deeply grateful to have been there to see both Page and Edwin marry, to meet his first great-grandchild, Florence, and to attend his first Pride march in support of Lila.

In his later years, Ron faced health challenges with courage, undergoing treatment for prostate cancer while also living with COPD and suspected Parkinson’s Disease.

Ron’s final resting places will reflect the two worlds that meant the most to him. His ashes will be scattered in Much Marcle, Ledbury, where his parents and sister Jean are laid to rest, and in Hluhluwe, Zululand, a place he loved so dearly.

His warmth and presence will be deeply missed—but most of all, his stories.