Montreal is hosting a final farewell for legendary jazz pianist Oliver Jones

Montreal hosted a final farewell for legendary jazz pianist Oliver Jones on Wednesday at city hall. People lined up to pay their respects to the family of the iconic musician. The city's flags were lowered to half-mast from early morning until the end of the day to honor Jones, who championed Montreal's jazz scene and its musicians.

His son, Richard Jones, placed an urn with his father's ashes at the front of the hall, alongside a picture of Oliver and flowers from well-wishers. Jazz musician Daniel Clarke Bouchard, who met Jones at age seven, was among the first to visit. Clarke Bouchard credits Jones with taking him under his wing and becoming his mentor, playing together in concerts and for Clarke Bouchard's first album.

Oliver Jones, known for his lightning-fast right hand and hard-swinging style, died at 91 on July 22. He grew up in the impoverished Montreal neighborhood of Little Burgundy before becoming a star. He supported young musicians and was an important figure in the jazz community, earning an Order of Canada and numerous other awards.

Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada described Jones as a great Montrealer and an exceptional musician. Jazz singer Ranee Lee, who played with Jones for many years, remembered his buoyant nature and his role in helping jazz shine in Montreal.