A Life of Service: From Liverpool to Local Politics
Howel Jones, a dedicated teacher and prominent Liberal Democrat figure who led his local party for nearly two decades while maintaining strong Methodist faith, has passed away at the age of 96. His remarkable life spanned religious devotion, political service, and an unwavering commitment to his community and family.
Early Years and Religious Calling
Born in the Liverpool suburb of Childwall to Welsh-speaking parents Dilys and Eames Jones, both office clerks, Howel grew up alongside his brother Glyn and sister Gwenda. Despite being taken every Sunday to a Welsh chapel where he didn't understand a single word, Christianity became the foundation of his life rather than pushing him away from religion.
In 1939, his family became founder members of Childwall Valley Methodist church, where at just 16 years old he felt called to become a local preacher. After leaving Holt grammar school the previous year and working in banking, followed by national service and the early death of his father, Howel sought greater meaning in life.
He enrolled in teacher training at Westminster College, London in 1951, qualifying as a teacher before returning to Liverpool to work at Dovedale primary school. It was at church where he met fellow teacher Maxine Headey, whom he married in 1956.
Teaching Career and Overseas Mission
Howel and Maxine felt called to missionary work and, three years after marrying and with a baby daughter, left for Meru in Kenya where their two sons were born. Despite having only six years of teaching experience, Howel took on the significant responsibility of district supervisor of schools.
The family returned to Britain in 1963, where Howel taught at St Thomas' C of E primary school in Kendal, Cumbria, and welcomed their fourth child. Four years later, they moved to Clitheroe for Howel to become deputy head of St James' primary school.
His teaching career continued to advance with positions as head of Daisyfield primary school in Blackburn from 1971-73, followed by leadership of the brand new Brookside primary school in Clitheroe until 1983.
Political Service and Personal Challenges
Retirement enabled Howel to dedicate himself fully to local politics, beginning a 21-year tenure as a Liberal Democrat councillor from 1982, representing both Clitheroe town and Ribble Valley Borough. He served as leader of the local Liberal Democrats for an impressive 17 years while continuing his service to the Methodist church at both local and national levels.
His civic contributions included serving as mayor of Clitheroe (1984-86 and 1993-95) and mayor of Ribble Valley (1990-91). Tragedy struck in 1987 when both his brother Glyn and wife Maxine died within weeks of each other.
The following year, Howel visited Glyn's widow Beverley in Wellington, New Zealand, and they eventually married in 1992, returning to live in Clitheroe. His public service continued as he became honorary alderman of the Ribble Valley council in 2003 and served as consort to Bev when she was mayor of Ribble Valley from 2009-10.
Family Legacy and Lasting Influence
Howel imparted his wisdom and values to younger generations, including advising his niece at age 12 to read the Manchester Guardian - a habit she maintained throughout her life. His devotion extended beyond public service to his family and his lifelong passion for Liverpool FC.
Howel Jones is survived by his wife Bev, his children Helen, Richard, Mark and Hilary, Bev's children Catherine and Alister, 17 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and his sister Gwenda. His legacy encompasses educational leadership, political dedication, religious commitment, and family devotion that touched multiple communities across different continents.
