Family, friends and fellow residents gathered at the Eventide Home Care Centre on Tuesday morning to celebrate the 90th birthday of well-known Dundee figure, Peter Jones.

Born in England in 1935, Jones moved to South Africa at the age of 12 when his parents immigrated. He attended several schools before matriculating and later married his lifelong love, Decima, who was closely involved with the tourism office for many years.

The couple were blessed with three children – Sheryl, Gary and Jenny Lee.

A businessman with a love for sport

Jones began his career as a draftsman at Durnacol and later in Ladysmith. In the early 1980s, he launched PJ Estates in Karel Landman Street, running the successful agency for 21 years before selling it to Gert de Lange and retiring.

A man of many interests, Jones enjoyed rugby, gym training, and had been an enthusiastic Boy Scout in his youth. He was also among the founding members of the Diehards historical group, alongside Pat Rungren and Titch Worthington – an organisation that continues to play a vital role in Dundee’s tourism and battle re-enactments.

With his memorable portrayal of General Penn Symons and his meticulous approach to organising events, Jones earned the affectionate nickname “The General.”

Adding to the joy of the day, Jones’s daughter Sheryl and son-in-law Dave Ponton travelled from Scotland to celebrate this milestone with him.

When asked by the Courier how it felt to turn 90, the ever-witty ‘General’ replied:

“Good, Kevin. Tomorrow I’m going horse riding.”

Happy birthday, General – Dundee salutes you!

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