Edward Jones 1945 - 2026

The Society is saddened to record the passing of Edward Jones, one of the visionaries behind the Rull Herd. Since 2000, Edward has been a well known member of the Aberdeen Angus Society and the South West Club. Alongside his wife Claire, they nurtured the Rull Herd into a symbol of excellence, known for their breeding pedigree and quiet nature of their animals. Some of his most cherished memories were made in the show ring, where he took immense pride in showing his cattle alongside his daughter, Katherine.

In the early 2000s, Edward and Claire meticulously selected foundation cows from the Netherton Herd—most notably Evita, Belle, Frances, Pam, and Missie. The introduction of stock bulls Muirhall Top Deal and Netherton Big Edition ushered in a generation of extraordinary offspring that captured titles at Country Shows across the land. Edward’s crowning achievement came in 2007, when he secured the prestigious Aberdeen Angus Royal Show title with Rull Evitus. This legacy of excellence continued through his exceptional female lines, with Rull Pam, Rull Evita, Rull Edwina and her twins earning numerous accolades, including the esteemed Warren Trophy in 2007.

Beyond the show ring, Edward’s heart belonged to the next generation. From 2010 onwards, he opened his farm and his heart to the Youth Development Programme (YDP), hosting countless events to inspire young stockmen and women. As Chairperson of the YDP Committee in the early 2010s, he worked hand-in-hand with Gayle Bersey, pouring his energy into growing the programme into the flourishing success it is today. Edward will be forever remembered for his tireless hard work, his unwavering dedication to youth teams, and the profound generosity he and Claire shared with everyone they met.

To honour Edward’s remarkable life, a funeral service will be held on April 23rd at 2:00 PM at the East Devon Crematorium, followed by a wake nearby where friends and family can gather to share stories and celebrate his enduring legacy.