It’s with heavy hearts that the Bombers mourn the loss of dearly loved club great Jack Jones.
The 95-year-old passed away on Monday afternoon surrounded by his family after a battle with cancer.
The triple premiership player, club Hall of Fame member and war veteran was Essendon’s oldest surviving player behind Harold Lambert, universally adored for his affability, wisdom and decency.
A childhood Essendon supporter who idolised the legendary Dick Reynolds, Jones came to the Bombers’ attention when playing football while stationed in New Guinea during World War II.
In 1946, the dream of donning the sash alongside Reynolds was realised, and there was no looking back for the then-21-year-old.
Boasting a thumping kick, pace, versatility and aerial prowess, Jones burst onto the scene, winning a VFL premiership in just his 20th VFL game and playing in six consecutive Grand Finals for a further two premierships in 1949 and 1950.
He was awarded Essendon’s best utility in 1946, 1947, 1949 and 1954, while also named best clubman in 1953.
Among his 175 games in the red and black, his consecutive streak of 133 between round 11, 1946 and round 14, 1952 remains a club record.
Jones reached the pinnacle on the field, but his contributions off the field were also profound.
Hosting match days and running Windy Hill tours for over two decades – the latter into his early 90s - he was an evergreen figure who would captivate supporters with his aura, passion and legion of stories.
He was a constant at Anzac Day games and in the lead-up to them, visiting the club to share poignant lessons on perspective with players, coaches and staff.
He had a passion for teaching - a legacy that will live on through the club’s Jack Jones Academy, which aids Essendon’s young players in their development off the field.
The club extends its deepest condolences to Jack’s wife Mary and children Anne Maree, Brian, John, Lynn, Peter and Tony during this tough time.
We’ll miss you incredibly, Jack.
