A ceremony commemorating the life of Oliver Jones is scheduled to be held at Union United Church, located near the jazz maestro’s childhood residence where he showcased his musical talents at a tender age of five, setting the stage for his illustrious career. Jones, who passed away on July 22 at the age of 91, was a revered figure in the world of jazz.
The service at Union United Church, a historic Black congregation established 119 years ago, is a stone’s throw from Jones’s family home in the Little Burgundy neighborhood. Throughout his extensive musical journey, Jones amassed several accolades, including JUNO awards, honorary doctorates, and prestigious appointments to the orders of Montreal, Quebec, and Canada.
Renowned for his association with Little Burgundy and the Montreal Jazz Festival, Jones graced the stage at the festival numerous times, performing consistently from 1981 to 1999. The memorial service, scheduled for Thursday from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. ET, will feature musical tributes, prayers, and speeches in honor of the late jazz legend.
