A devoted member of a Wrexham service that works with charities and community groups, has passed away.

John Leece-Jones was doing one of the things he liked best, volunteering for AVOW in a meeting, when he died on June 1, aged 72

John became a trustee of the Association of Voluntary Organisations in Wrexham (AVOW) back in March 2011.

Since then he has been company secretary and chair of most of its committees, and as AVOW executive chair, has guided the organisation through many developments from the days of Community First.

John always showed a personal pride and has been a tremendous asset to AVOW, and will be sadly missed by all staff, volunteers and trustees who knew him in various roles.

His knowledge about Wrexham and voluntary organisations was first rate.

His time and devotion to AVOW was always unstinting, offering a cheery smile whenever he came to Ty AVOW, and took many opportunities of singing the praises of trustees, staff, and volunteers.

A local lad, John was educated at Grove Park School for Boys, Wrexham, and Manchester University, where he gained a Law degree.

He was a gentleman from the “old school” - warm hearted and much-loved by all for his kindness, consideration, and supportive nature.

He also embraced technology, as demonstrated with his much-used iPad and knowledge, and more recently the willingness to accept Zoom as a new ‘norm’.

John entered public service with Wrexham Rural District Council and then, following Local Government reorganisation in 1974, he was appointed Principle Legal Officer with the new Wrexham Maelor Borough Council.

He later moved into private legal practice with a family firm of local solicitors.

John was also a governor of Coleg Cambria, chair of Rofft CP, governor Tanyfron CP, trustee of Maes-y-Pant and Wrexham League of Friends, as well as informal links with numerous other Third Sector organisations over the years.

These included chairman of Wrexham CAB, Gresford Community Council, Gresford Trust and TCC with their work on Town of Sanctuary.

Previously he served for several years as a non-executive director of the North East Wales Health Board, Midwifery Council, and other national appointments.

John’s devotion to public service was an example for all in the Third Sector and for public life in Wrexham, and he will be fondly remembered for his valuable contribution to Wrexham and the wider community.

He is survived by his wife Sali and son John (Jnr).

AVOW have opened a book of condolences for anyone to share a memory or leave a message, that will be shared with Sali, John (Jnr) and family.

You can leave your tribute at https://www.mykeeper.com/profile/JohnLeeceJones/

Many have already paid tribute to John via the book of condolence.

Andy Williams, former Mayor of Wrexham, said: "John was an amazing man who just loved helping and giving to others.

"He was the face of AVOW and will be sadly missed by everyone, and will have left a massive hole in the AVOW team. He was a true gentleman."

Jane Wilkinson said: "I have very fond memories of working alongside John at Coleg Cambria.

"He was a true gentleman who always made the time and effort to engage in conversation and was genuinely interested.

"I was saddened to hear of his passing as he was an inspiration to many thanks to his time and commitment to many causes."

Vicky Barwis said: "John was a true gentleman who would always find time to take an interest, with a smile for everyone.

"A pleasure to work with him during his time at Cambria."

Rona Griffiths said: "Thank you John for your unstoppable interest and belief in young people and their potential, and for your love of learning: truly infectious! You will be truly missed."