JONES, Elizabeth “Liz” Hannah Jones

Passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at Sakura House, with family by her side. Born in London, Ontario, Elizabeth “Liz” Hannah Jones (Prior) grew up in Malden Centre. After graduating from Windsor Teachers College, she settled in Woodstock, Ontario, where she built her home, raised her family, and dedicated her life to education and community.

Elizabeth “Liz” Hannah Jones was the devoted wife of Arthur for 61 wonderful years, and a loving mother to Brian and Brent (Andrea). She was a proud grandmother to Trenton, Devin (Jess), Danica, and Preston, and a cherished great-grandmother to Hailey. Liz will be deeply missed by her sisters, Margaret Prince (Roger) and Judy Rayner (late Leonard), her brother Rick Prior (Heidi), and her sister-in-law Marjorie Lassaline (Bryan), along with many extended family members, friends, colleagues, and former students. She is also lovingly remembered by her sole surviving aunt, Gwen Welsh. She was predeceased by her parents, Milton and Mirth Prior.

Liz always wanted to make a difference—and she did. Teaching was never simply a career for her; it was her calling. Even after “retirement,” she continued to supply teach and tutor for as long as she was able, often teaching or tutoring multiple generations within the same family. Liz was recognized everywhere she went: “You’re Mrs. Jones—you taught me, do you remember?” And she always did. She remembered the student, the classroom, the desk, and the story. Many told her, “You were my favourite teacher,” or “You were the best teacher I ever had,” words that reflected the lasting impact she made.

Liz began her teaching career in 1964 at Tollgate Public School, and went on to teach at Victoria St., Northdale, Hickson, and Oliver Stephens Public Schools. She later joined a pilot program at Annandale in Tillsonburg for a number of years, before returning to her elementary classroom roots at D.M. Sutherland, and finishing her long and meaningful career at Hillcrest Public School. Throughout her years with the Thames Valley District School Board and the former Oxford County Board of Education, she touched the lives of thousands of students and worked alongside hundreds of colleagues—always with passion, humour, and deep care for learning.

While raising two children, Liz earned her B.A. from Brock University, and later completed her Bachelor of Education at the University of Western Ontario, a testament to her determination and belief in lifelong learning.

Above all, Liz wanted her life remembered with joy. In her words, she wished for a celebration—a party—with her favourite music, food and beverages shared, and time for family, friends, and all those she influenced to gather and enjoy one another’s company.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the Woodstock General Hospital Palliative Care Unit and Sakura House for their incredible care, compassion, and support. Special thanks to Dr. Kocsis, Dr. Regis, and Tiffany Plunkett for the kindness and guidance shown to Liz and her family. The family is also grateful to Madison and Smith-Leroy Funeral Home for their assistance with arrangements.

A Celebration of Liz’s Life will be held at Craigowan Golf Club, 595838 Hwy 59 N., Woodstock, on Saturday, April 18, 2026 between 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. At Liz’s request, a few words will be shared by selected guests at approximately 3:00 p.m.