A commemorative service for the late Oliver Jones is scheduled to take place at Union United Church, located in close proximity to the jazz legend’s childhood home where he gave his first concert at the tender age of five, marking the beginning of his illustrious career. Jones, who passed away on July 22 at the age of 91, will be honored during the service on Thursday.
The service at Union United Church, a historic Black congregation established 119 years ago, holds significance as it is situated just minutes away from Jones’s family residence in the Little Burgundy neighborhood. Throughout his extensive musical journey, Jones garnered multiple 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 with his performances year after year, notably appearing every year from 1981 to 1999. The upcoming service, scheduled from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. ET on Thursday, will feature various musical tributes, prayers, and speeches in honor of the legendary jazz musician.
The public paid tribute to Jones during a visitation at city hall the day before. Oliver Jones, a celebrated jazz pianist, collaborated closely with the Montreal Jazz Festival and was posthumously inducted into the Canadian Hall of Fame in 2023. The article includes a video tribute commemorating the life and achievements of Oliver Jones.
