Straight-talking minister was an expert diver 

(first published in the 'Irish Times' of August 2nd 2014)

Stewart Jones – born September 8^th 1957, died July 12^th 2014

The Reverend Doctor Stewart Jones, who has died in a diving accident in Donegal Bay, was a straight-talking Presbyterian minister who combined academic distinction with a love and aptitude for the pastoral care of his flock: and with being an expert diver.

At the time of his death he was minister of Donemana, Co Tyrone, and Presbyterian chaplain to Derry’s Altnagelvin Hospital. His work helped make Donemana a vibrant congregation, reaching out into the community.

Reverend Jones held Masters degrees in Theology, Information Technology and Arts, and a D.Phil in History. He had written books on the history of Ulster Unionism: the history and politics of the Middle East: and on Biblical Studies, ‘Through The Bible in 365 Days’.

Additionally, he was among the best-qualified divers in Ireland. He took up the sport in his early 40s, mastering it to become a top-class instructor. On the week after his death, he had been due to undertake another training course.

Stewart Robert Jones was born in September 1957 in Bessbrook, South Armagh, eldest of three children to Jimmy Jones, a landscape gardener and scout leader, and his wife Bea (née Stewart). He received primary education at Bessbrook Primary School, where a teacher inspired his future studies – by disparaging his academic ability. His secondary education was at Newry High School. On leaving school, he felt the call to the Ministry, combining studies at Queen’s University and Union Theological College.

He began his ministry in East Belfast. Then he became minister of Second Castlederg, Co Tyrone, and Alt, Co Donegal. His Castlederg congregation had suffered badly in the Troubles. That ministry was followed by Kilcooley in Bangor, a deprived Loyalist estate. Donemana and the chaplaincy to Altnagelvin were his final charges. He participated in building a relationship between the Donemana congregation and the Mtunthama congregation in Malawi. He served as Moderator of the Foyle Presbytery. He was also very involved in Churches Together and the Irish Churches’ Peace Project. Through his many activities he made close friendships across denominational and sectarian divides.

His last words summarise the man. He was diving with a younger friend when the two were caught by a freak wave. He told his companion: “I’m done. Save yourself.”

He is survived by his wife, Patricia; daughters Anna, Esther and Rachel: and grandchildren Josh and Lily.