Vicki Jones was a very well loved and respected celebrant in Papakura, says fellow Celebrants Aotearoa member Patricia Cosford.
"She was remarkable and battled illness and even did a funeral three weeks ago," says Patricia.
Vicki passed away peacefully at home on 24th October 2025, surrounded by her family.
Her death notice said, "Vicki lived a life filled with joy and a commitment to live by her school motto 'By Love Serve'.
The Papakura Rotary Club paid tribute to Vicki on their website farewelling "a pillar of the community".
"The Rotary Club of Papakura mourns the loss of a truly exceptional lady."
"Vicki's passing leaves a deep void in our club, and she will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside her.
"Vicki was the epitome of 'Service Above Self', embodying the Rotary motto in every facet of her life. Her unique blend of professional expertise, boundless compassion, and sheer dedication created a special place for her within our Rotary family.
"Many will fondly recall Vicki's calm and capable presence as our club's go-to First Aid/Nurse at major events. Whether it was at the adrenaline-fueled Bike Show, the festive atmosphere of the Christmas Parade, or our large Karaka Concerts—which she also helped to organise—Vicki was always there, ensuring the safety and well-being of our community.
"Her commitment to youth development was extraordinary. For many years, she was a loving and indispensable presence as 'Camp Mum' at RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards), offering care and guidance to the next generation of leaders. Furthermore, she was an incredible host to several Rotary Exchange Students and served as a thoughtful Counsellor to others, opening her home and heart to the world.
"Vicki was a true global citizen. She bravely travelled to India to participate in the life-saving PolioPlus vaccination campaign. She also journeyed to Tonga with our club team, where she not only assisted with local projects but also spearheaded the wonderful effort to collect and send bras for the women there.
"Back home, she extended her care to international humanitarian efforts, tirelessly helping with the local arrangements for the young Tongan child who came to Auckland for ROMAC surgery on his cleft lip and palate.
"Vicki was a force for good in countless local initiatives as well: She was a dedicated volunteer, packing food parcels for the Salvation Army during the challenging COVID-19 lockdowns and meticulously packing Emergency Response Kits (ERK boxes) for disaster relief.
"Her lifelong commitment to the health and education of youth was evident in her many years as the School Nurse at Papakura High and her involvement with the Breakfast in Schools program at Edmund Hillary School, as well as her work with Girl Guides locally.
"The wider Papakura community benefited from her tireless work with the Day Care program for the elderly at Selwyn Homestead.
"Vicki Jones was more than just an active member; she was a vibrant heart in the life of the Papakura Rotary Club. Her dedication, her kindness, and her incredible willingness to step up whenever needed have left an indelible mark on our club and the wider community. We are all better for having known her.
"Our deepest sympathies go out to her family and loved ones. May her legacy of extraordinary service continue to inspire us all."
Celebrants Aotearoa extends our heartfelt love to Vicki's family at this truly sad time.
What a life well served.
