Estell Jones

Estell "Hope" Jones born October 12, 1941 to the union of the late George Sebastian Jones of Henderson NC and the late Virginia Monroe-Scott Jones of Bryn Mawr PA . Estell was the fourth child and the only girl born to the union of five children. Estell was educated in the Lower Merion and Philadelphia Archdiocesan School system, graduating from the historical West Philadelphia Catholic Girls High with academic Honors. After graduation Estell entered the religious order of the Handmaids of Mary on States Island NY, she left the order after taking ill. Estell remained in New York, while there, she attended Fordham University, Hunter College and City College, earning a master's degree in education. After Estell graduated she returned to Philadelphia, where she put her degree to good use working as a teacher in the Archdiocesan school system. Her love for education inspired her to also attend Temple University, where she obtained her teaching certification. Estell's teaching career expanded to the public school system where she retired after years of service as a Principal. During her career Estell was awarded a fellowship to the prestigious Harvard University Graduate School, to study specialized education to infants and toddlers. Upon completing this challenge at Harvard Estell returned to Philadelphia and worked on a committee for the Pennsylvania Department of Welfare, where she helped develop guidelines, for Daycare, Infant and Toddler programs. Her work on this committee was the catalyst used to establish regulations that are used today in the State of Pennsylvania Manuel of Daycare providers. Estell also worked for a short time as a social worker, providing guidance for both children and families. Estell served on many community social services boards. Her volunteerism was endless, developing a community outreach program in North Central Philadelphia, serving children youth, families and seniors. Her volunteerism expanded, giving out Thanksgiving baskets, Coats and Toy drives, and sponsoring Christmas parties for children. Estell established summer enrichments camps for school age children and work internships for both high school and college students. Throughout her life odf service Estell suffered with many health issues, however she never allowed her illness to discourage or stop her drive to make the lives of children better. Estell was known to say "Saving Children Valuing Children's lives" and I Hope I Have Saved them Well" Estell leaves to celebrate her life, Daughter Robyn, Grandson, Justin Phillip, Granddaughters, Camryn and Addison (Jake) and a host of relatives, friends and colleagues.