World War II veteran, 102, honoured with Quilt of Valour in Beamsville

A 102-year-old World War II veteran was honoured in Beamsville Thursday as she was presented with a Quilt of Valour.

Elizabeth Jones, or Miss Janey, is nearing her 103rd birthday and says the key to her longevity is love.

“If you love anyone, and everyone, regardless of what colour they are and how they talk, then you’ve already got it made.”

That’s it, that’s Elizabeth’s secret. At 102-years-old she’s seen it all and hasn’t met a dog she didn’t like, especially Gracie, a service dog she shares with her friend Cindy Weir.

Jones, who everyone has come to know as Aunt Janey, met Gracie two years ago.

“Before she came to visit me I was morbid. I wanted a pet but I couldn’t have one on my floor. I kept going down down down…I lived with animals all my life.”

At the age of 100, Elizabeth had been living alone in Grimsby until she fell and broke her hip two years ago. Since then, she’s been living in Beamsville.

“She’s always been very healthy in mind, body and soul. It’s only been the last few years she’s had issues. It’s incredible what she’s been through the last couple years.” said relative Susan Calwell Lawson.

Elizabeth is a World War II veteran who served as a leading aircraft woman after enrolling in the air force in 1943.

On Thursday, she was given a “Quilt of Valour” for her service by an organization that has been giving out handmade quilts to veterans since 2008.

It was a moment that was without a doubt meaningful to Elizabeth.

“How special were you when you were born to your mother…that’s how special it was.” she said.