Mr John Rhaiadr-Jones and his wife, Ellen, were appointed Manager and Matron of the College in 1929.
In Dame Agnes’ own words, her “prayers were answered” early that year when Mr & Mrs Rhaiadr-Jones were appointed Manager and Matron of the College.
Dame Agnes continued to devote herself to Derwen College until her death in 1948.
Ellen Jones worked as Matron of the College for over 30 years. In 1946 she was awarded an MBE in the New Year’s Honours. She remained as matron before her sudden death on 17 October 1961.
John Rhaiadr-Jones was manager of the College for 37 years. During this time he was appointed Honorary advisor on Rehabilitation to the Ministry of Health in 1940; in early 1949 he was “invited by the Ministry of Health to serve on the Advisory Council for Handicapped Persons“, and later that year he was “invited by the Ministry of Health to serve on the Committee of the British Standards Institute, dealing with Surgical Appliances.”
Despite being due to retire in 1950, he was persuaded to continue as the College Manager, eventually retiring in 1966. J. Rhaiadr-Jones died on 3 January 1970, and his portrait (right) was commissioned by the College as a tribute.
* Quotes from Derwen College Committee Meeting minutes.