Musician Desi Jones' funeral set for June 3 at Holy Trinity Cathedral

The funeral for acclaimed Jamaican musician Desmond 'Desi' Jones will take place on June 3 at the Holy Trinity Cathedral on North Street in Kingston. 

Culture and Entertainment Minister Olivia 'Babsy' Grange says the service will start at 1 p.m. with a tribute from musicians led by saxophonist, Dean Fraser.

Jones, hailed as one of Jamaica's most outstanding musicians, died suddenly on May 11. He was 65.

He was a founding member of the band Chalice before forming his band, Skool.

Jones also toured extensively and recorded with Jimmy Cliff, Barrington Levy, Mutabaruka, Marcia Griffiths, jazz pianist Monty Alexander and guitarist Ernie Ranglin.

For years, Jones was a fixture on the live music scene, where he was in demand as a drummer and jazz musician.

He was also a lecturer in music and wrote the only known book on Reggae drumming, Grange said in her statement. 

In 2019, Desi Jones received the Order of Distinction in the rank of Officer Class for his contribution to the development of Jamaican music through jazz, show music, and reggae. He also received the JARIA Award for Exceptional Musician (Instrumentalist) in 2023.

Jones' widow, Judith, has requested "cheerful colours" at the service. 

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