September 9, 1935 – June 22, 2026
It is with deep sadness and immense love that we announce the passing of Alma Etil Jones, who passed away peacefully on June 22, 2026, after a courageous year-long battle with cancer.
Alma was born on September 9, 1935, in Chauvin, Alberta, to Louis and Mary Hammer. In 1940, Alma moved to Maple Ridge, British Columbia, with her parents and her brother, Bill, all of whom predeceased her. She attended school in Maple Ridge and graduated from Maple Ridge Senior Secondary School in 1953.
Following graduation, Alma entered the Vancouver General Hospital School of Nursing and graduated with the September 1957 class. Her first nursing position was at the newly opened Maple Ridge Hospital in 1958. Adventurous by nature, Alma later moved to Hartford, Connecticut, with several classmates to continue her nursing career. Following an extended tour of Europe with those same friends, she returned home to Maple Ridge Hospital before accepting a position as the trusted nurse and assistant to Dr. Bob Rhodes.
It was in Dr. Rhodes’ office in 1962 that Alma met the love of her life, Ron Jones. They married in 1963 and embarked on a remarkable journey together, raising a loving family and sharing almost 63 wonderful years of marriage.
Alma is lovingly remembered by her devoted husband, Ron; her son Scott (Sonja); her daughter Michelle Jones-Ruppel (Terry); and her cherished Grandchildren, Brenden (Kyra), Taylore (Colton), Jordyn and Rylee and her Great Granddaughter Austyn. Family was always at the center of Alma’s life, and she took immense pride in supporting and celebrating each of their accomplishments.
Throughout their lives together, Alma and Ron enjoyed extensive travel and created many treasured memories with family and friends. After owning homes in Maui and Palm Desert, they fulfilled a lifelong dream in 2000 by purchasing a home in Indian Wells Country Club, where they spent five months each year enjoying the desert lifestyle. Alma loved golfing, entertaining, meeting new friends, and sharing special times with family and visitors. Along the way, she had the opportunity to meet many notable personalities, including Jack Jones, Arnold Palmer, Pat Boone, Steve Garvey, and Frank Sinatra.
An avid golfer, Alma won numerous awards over the years, but nothing compared to the excitement she felt after achieving a hole-in-one, a moment she proudly considered one of her greatest personal accomplishments.
Giving back to her community brought Alma tremendous joy and fulfillment. Her volunteer service was extensive and impactful. She served as President of the Maple Ridge Foundation, was an active member of Beta Sigma Phi and the Maple Ridge Kinnette Club, and dedicated 25 years to the Founders Cup Charity Classic Golf Tournament, which raised more than $3 million for community charities. In recognition of her outstanding service and commitment to others, Alma was honored with the Paul Harris Award from the Haney Rotary Club.
Family was everything to Alma. Nothing brought her greater joy than spending time with those she loved. She was the most loving and caring person, always wearing a warm smile and always thinking of others before herself. Her kindness, generosity, and selflessness touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Whether offering a helping hand, a listening ear, or words of encouragement, Alma made people feel loved and valued.
Her legacy is one of unconditional love, quiet strength, and unwavering devotion to her family and friends. She leaves behind countless treasured memories and a family forever grateful for the love and guidance she shared throughout her life.
Alma faced her final illness with the same strength, determination, grace, and courage that defined her life. While she will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved her, her family takes comfort in knowing she is now at peace.
The family has chosen to hold a private Celebration of Life at a later date. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Alma’s memory are invited to make a donation to the charity of their choice.
The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the many friends, caregivers, and medical professionals who provided support and kindness throughout Alma’s journey.
With love and gratitude, the Ron M. Jones Family.
Expressions of sympathy can be made at gardenhill.ca