In February 1970, Rena Jones (Mrs. Fletcher Jones) died. She and Fletcher had been married for 48 years and had three children, Ralph, Lois and David. The February note of 1971 below, written in Fletcher's hand and printed, gives a clear sense of his deep grieving at her loss while also showing us something of his resilient character. Each year a stylish family Christmas card from Fletcher and Rena and family went out to friends and staff (1965 example below) and this February 1971 note is Fletcher's apology for not sending Christmas greetings in 1970.
In October 1971, FJ and Aida Wells married. The poignant letter below was written by FJ to some of his trusted staff and friends announcing his intention to marry again and asking for them to keep the secret until the marriage.
"I worked in the main office at FJ's & still remember the day FJ arrived after his honeymoon with his new wife Aida for a visit...such a wonderful man - he escorted Aida before him & called out at the top of his voice 'Hey everyone..meet the new wife!' Poor Aida - she was a little shy at the time being confronted with so many strange faces - but we soon made her feel welcome. It was so lovely to see them so happy."
Sallyann Hall