Montrealers will get a chance to say goodbye to legendary jazz pianist Oliver Jones Wednesday. Montreal’s city hall is hosting a public viewing in the afternoon, while a public funeral service is scheduled for Thursday at Union United Church in his old neighbourhood of Little Burgundy. The award-winning pianist died July 22 at age 91 and grew up in the impoverished Montreal neighbourhood before becoming 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 Aug. 19, 2026.
