Jazz and gospel fill the church in Little Burgundy as Montreal honours Oliver Jones

A tribute filled the modest church in Montreal's Little Burgundy neighbourhood on Thursday, as the jazz world mourned the loss of Oliver Jones. Friends, family and musicians gathered for the funeral, sharing stories of the pianist's generosity, talent and humility. His widow, Monique Leclerc Jones, described him as an "angel" she had lived with for a quarter of a century.

Richard Jones paid tribute to his father, reminiscing about their travels, friendship and love of golf. He imagined his father now "joyfully making music with all the other musicians that went before him."

The service celebrated Jones' impact on the jazz community. Performances by musicians like Ranee Lee and Kim Richardson were interspersed with eulogies. The Dr. Oliver Jones Trio even played one of his compositions, "Lights of Burgundy."

Born in the same impoverished neighbourhood as Oscar Peterson, Jones rose to stardom and became a member of the Order of Canada. He supported young musicians and championed the local jazz scene, performing at the International Jazz Festival for years. Creator of the festival, Alain Simard, praised Jones as a "pillar," noting his "humility and kindness."

Jim West, a longtime friend and producer, recalled their 45-year musical journey together, including a tour of Africa where Jones insisted on organizing concerts for children. His friend and producer, Guillaume Cliche-Rivard, highlighted Jones' kindness and dedication to the community. The entire neighborhood was in mourning, according to Cliche-Rivard.

Outside the church, mourners lined the walls, watching a projection of the service. The audience cheered, sang and danced as the choir and soloists performed stirring renditions of "Amazing Grace" and "Hymn to Freedom." Montreal bid farewell to Oliver Jones, who had given so much to the city and the world.