Trade Unionist and former steelworker, Gary had represented the Llangennech ward of Carmarthenshire County Council since 2017.
Writing on social media, his family announced Gary’s passing, saying they will miss the “kindest, gentlest, most modest and generous man that ever was”.
“Gary Robert Jones, husband, father, uncle, campaigner and socialist passed away on Tuesday 27th May 2025 at Prince Philip Hospital, Llanelli.
“Gary had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer some 3 years ago, but had continued to live a full and active life until quite recently.
“He leaves his wife of 40 years Cara, daughters Molly and Rowen, sister Dawn, brother David, son-in-law Matt.
“Gary was raised in Beaufort, Gwent and on leaving school followed his father Bob into the steelworks at Ebbw Vale, as a tin plater.
“He was a trade unionist, Labour Party stalwart and loved rugby. Most of all, he was an avid and informed reader, and a collector of military paraphernalia.
“When the Ebbw Vale steelworks was closing the family relocated from their home in Church Street, Ebbw Vale, to a new life at Llangennech and the Trostre steelworks.
“His passion for his new village community became evident with his election as a Labour Councillor to the local Community Council, and he spent a year as chair of the Community Council. He was also a dedicated member of Carmarthenshire as a unitary councillor for Llangennech and Bryn.
“He was an active campaigner and was always seen around the ward on litter picks, problem solving and helping anyone in need.
“His many friends on from Beaufort, Trostre, the Labour Party, Laugharne, Llangennech and across the country will miss the humour and good conversation on a huge range of subjects.
“His constituents will miss his tireless work on their behalf.
“The family will miss the kindest, gentlest, most modest and generous man that ever was.”
Llanelli Labour MS, Lee Waters paid tribute to Gary saying: “Gary Jones was a very good man. Kind and thoughtful, and full of integrity.
“He served his community of Llangennech in a way that reflected his values – it was never about being someone, it was about doing something. He helped people because he cared.
“I know his family will feel his loss the most and they have all my love.
“Diolch Gary, it was a privilege to know you.”
