A Biography of Lilian Waters Grosvenor Jones

Lilian Waters Grosvenor Jones was a remarkable woman who lived a life of adventure, diplomacy, and philanthropy. Jones was a prominent socialite and philanthropist who belonged to one of America’s most influential families. She was born on April 8, 1907, in Washington, D.C., as the daughter of Gilbert Hovey Grosvenor, the first full-time editor of National Geographic magazine, and Elsie May Bell, a granddaughter of Alexander Graham Bell.

Lilian grew up in a family that valued exploration, education, and service.Lilian grew up in a privileged environment surrounded by famous people and exotic places. She traveled extensively with her parents and siblings, visiting places like Japan, China, India, Egypt, and Europe. She attended Bryn Mawr College and graduated in 1929 with a degree in history.

In 1927, she married Cabot Coville, a Foreign Service officer who devoted much of his career to U.S.-Japan relations. They had two sons: Cabot Jr., who was born in Tokyo in 1932 but died tragically in an airplane crash in 1965; and Gilbert Grosvenor Coville, who was born in Washington D.C. in 1934.

Lilian supported her husband’s diplomatic work and became involved in various charitable causes. She was especially active in promoting cultural exchange between Japan and America through organizations such as the Japan Society and the Asia Society. Lilian accompanied her husband to his diplomatic postings around the world, including Japan (twice), China (twice), Switzerland (twice), France (twice), Canada (once), and Germany (once). She was an active participant in cultural exchange programs and humanitarian efforts. She also supported various causes such as education, health care, environmental protection, and peace.

Lilian divorced Cabot Coville in 1948 after 21 years of marriage. She later remarried Joseph Marion Jones Jr., a lawyer and businessman, in 1976 . She continued to be a generous patron of arts and education until her death on January 17, 1985. She was buried at Rock Creek Cemetery in Washington, D.C..

Lilian died on January 17th 1985 at her home in Washington D.C., at age 77. She was buried at Rock Creek Cemetery alongside her husband Cabot Sr., who had passed away two years earlier. She left behind a legacy of generosity, curiosity,
and courage.

Lilian Waters Grosvenor Jones was a remarkable woman who lived an extraordinary life. She left behind a legacy of service, philanthropy, and friendship that spanned continents and generations.

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