Lionel Jordan W.I.S.E. (Hons)
(100 years Young)
Lionel was born in Gloucester on the 24th October 1921. At school he made a little pocket money running errands for the local butcher but his first real job after leaving school was as at The Carpet Works where he became floor manager at the tender age of 16.
He was always a keen sports person and enjoyed athletics and cricket. He joined the Royal Gloucestershire Hussars and was called up to serve his country in 1939. During the war-time, Lionel learnt to ride a motor-bike, drive a tank, lead on manoeuvres and train others.
He was posted to London, Clyde, Bury St. Edmunds and then Taranto in Italy. He was diverted to Austria via Rome and eventually set up camp in Graz near the Russian border. He learnt to ski in Austria and eventually returned home in 1946,
After the war, Lionel became an apprentice mechanic for the Post Office and he married Mary Maggs a trainee SRN at Gloucester hospital in 1950. They had 2 children Elaine and Terry. Lionel went on to driving and HGV instructing for the GPO whilst Mary became a district nurse.
Lionel played cricket well into his 70’s and after retiring from his position as assistant manager of the South West Head Office for BT he embraced retirement. He and Mary enjoyed many long cruises around the world. He also took camper vans and drove all across Australia and Canada.
Lionel has always been family orientated and from 2 children now finds himself with eight grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. He can still give them a run for their money when playing chess. On 11th February 2020 Lionel and Mary celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary but sadly, Mary died just a month later aged 94.
This year Lionel celebrated his 100th birthday. He received a card from the Queen, he was presented with a “This is Your Life Book” compiled by son Terry and his daughter and son organised a wonderful celebration in the Church where he was once a choir boy. It was attended by his extended family and friends.
Lionel has always been a gentleman, a kind and proud parent and a very dear friend and is loved by many.
Entry written by Dee Russell-Thomas Director GGAF