MONTREAL — Montreal will pay a final tribute to legendary jazz pianist Oliver Jones in a public funeral service today. The service is scheduled for this afternoon at Union United Church in Little Burgundy, where Jones began playing at five years old. The award-winning pianist died July 22 at age 91 and grew up in the impoverished Montreal neighbourhood before he became a star. Jones became a member of the Order of Canada and earned many other awards and distinctions in his life. He was known for his lightning-fast right hand, a phenomenal technique and a hard-swinging style. Representatives of the provincial and municipal governments as well as members of the jazz scene are expected to attend the funeral on Thursday. This report by The Canadian Press was first published August 20, 2026. Marieke Glorieux-Stryckman, The Canadian Press
