The vibrant atmosphere of Montreal’s Little Burgundy neighbourhood resonated with the sounds of jazz and gospel on Thursday, as a community came together to honour the legendary pianist Oliver Jones at his funeral. Friends and family filled the Union United Church, sharing poignant memories of a man celebrated not only for his musical genius but also for his generosity and humility.
“I am mourning an angel,” expressed his widow, Monique Leclerc Jones, during a touching moment at the service. “How can I say farewell, or even goodbye, to the angel who has been my whole life for a quarter of a century?”
A Legacy of Music and Community
Oliver Jones, who passed away on July 22 at the age of 91, was a stalwart of the Montreal jazz scene. He began playing piano at the church when he was just five years old and continued to return throughout his life. His son, Richard Jones, delivered a heartfelt eulogy, recalling treasured memories of travel, friendship, and shared moments on the golf course.
“I like to imagine my dad in heaven now… with a huge smile on his face, joyfully making music with all the other musicians that went before him,” Richard reflected, bringing smiles even through the tears.
The service was a celebration of Jones’ monumental influence on jazz, featuring performances and tributes from notable musicians including Ranee Lee and Kim Richardson. The Dr. Oliver Jones Trio performed one of his own compositions, “Lights of Burgundy,” with bassist Éric Lagacé noting, “It’s great to have his music live on after him.”
A Champion of Jazz and Young Musicians
Emerging from the same impoverished neighbourhood as his mentor Oscar Peterson, Jones’s rise to fame was fueled by his passion for music. He studied under Peterson’s sister, Daisy, and received numerous accolades throughout his career, including being appointed to the Order of Canada.
Jones was not only a celebrated performer but also a dedicated supporter of aspiring musicians, tirelessly promoting the local jazz scene. Alain Simard, founder of the Montreal International Jazz Festival, remarked, “He’s been a pillar. He had such humility and kindness…he couldn’t imagine that he would have that success.”
Jim West, a close friend and long-time producer, shared stories of their adventures together, including a memorable tour in Africa where Jones insisted on organising concerts for children, showcasing his commitment to giving back.
Community Mourning and Celebration
Among the attendees were local dignitaries, including Guillaume Cliche-Rivard, the local member of the provincial legislature, and Chantal Rouleau, the provincial minister responsible for the city. Rouleau fondly recalled her encounters with Jones, describing him as “always attentive, always smiling and kind. A kind man, a good man, and a great musician who made the city and Quebec shine around the world.”
Cliche-Rivard highlighted the profound impact Jones had on the community, stating, “The whole community is in mourning.” Outside the church, a crowd gathered to watch the service unfold on a large screen, reflecting the deep connection Jones had with his neighbourhood.
Vance McKenzie, Jones’ cousin and a musician in his own right, expressed his admiration, saying, “He didn’t have a bad bone in his body. He just was a pure person.”
Despite the heat in the packed church, the audience celebrated Jones’s life, singing and dancing along with the choir, culminating the service with stirring renditions of “Amazing Grace” and “Hymn to Freedom.” In this way, Montreal said a heartfelt goodbye to one of its greatest musical treasures.
Why it Matters
The passing of Oliver Jones leaves a significant void not only in the jazz community but also within the cultural fabric of Montreal and beyond. His legacy of mentorship and dedication to the arts inspires future generations of musicians and artists. In a world where the power of community and generosity is often overlooked, Jones’s life serves as a reminder of the profound impact one individual can have on many, solidifying his place in the hearts of those he touched.