Original Posts: June 28, 2009 - June 29, 2009 - June 30, 2029
Updated/Merged Post: February 5, 2026
Beloved Hamilton Blues legend Jackie Washington passed at the age of 89 at Joseph’s Hospital at 1:22pm on Saturday, June 27, 2009 with family and friends by his side. The cause of death was complications from a heart attack.
He was an inspiration to generations of musicians and a Canadian treasure.
He was an inspiration to generations of musicians and a Canadian treasure.
Reaction
On the Monday, June 29, 2009 edition of the Hamilton Spectator, Jackie Washington received the recognition he deserved. His life and career was the front page story.
Graham Rockingham's touching article included a description of his final moments, Jackie's biography, highlights from his career, and quotes from important Hamilton figures such as Lincoln Alexander, Sheila Copps, and more.
The legend's passing has also been felt on the Internet as many musicians and fans have posted their thoughts on different web sites.
Here is a sampling:
Mark McNeil (Musician & Spectator Reporter)
I've never known anyone who had more of a positive outlook on life and so genuinely loved being around people. He was a pleasure to spend time with and he was a treasure of information about the jazz world and local history. We all learned by his example and our lives were enriched by his musicianship.Alfie Smith
The world seemed a little brighter with Jackie Washington in it. Your music and the joy you brought to so many people will always live on. I feel lucky to have known you. Rest in peace my friend.
John Crawford (aka Big Johnny Blue)
I am devastated, I just found out that the great Jackie Washington of Hamilton Ontario died yesterday. My heart goes out to the Washington Family. I was deeply moved by Jackie's music and he influenced my music for the better. Thanks Jackie and God bless you.!!!!!!!!Lily Sazz
A Hamilton icon gone. Jackie Washington's memory will live on. Special mention to all of his dear friends who helped him in his final years.
Media Articles
Memorial & Tributes
July 6, 2009
On Monday, July 6, 2009 at 7:30 pm, a New-Orleans style band was joined by many performers at the Jackie Washington Rotary Park on at Wellington and Simcoe. All musicians were invited to join in.
There were some tears but also a lot of music, fun and laughter at the tribute.Jackie Washington Rotary Park was packed with friends, family and fans remembering the life of this late, great Hamiltonian. Trains tooted as they passed the park, reminding everyone of Jackie's fascination with locomotives.
There were some tears but also a lot of music, fun and laughter at the tribute.Jackie Washington Rotary Park was packed with friends, family and fans remembering the life of this late, great Hamiltonian. Trains tooted as they passed the park, reminding everyone of Jackie's fascination with locomotives.
Local politician, and radio personality Bob Bratina hosted as poems were read, songs were sung, and stories were told.
Close friend and former manager, Bill Powell spoke of how Jackie's live music helped bring a woman out of catatonic state at a retirement home.
Organizers from various Ontario festivals spoke of the dedication the legend had to their events.
Poet and co-writer of Jackie's biography, James Strecker, read a poem he wrote in memory of his friend. Poet Holmes Hook also followed suit.
Jackie's frequent musical partners, Mose Scarlett (now deceased) and Ken Whiteley played amazing songs as did many other performers.
The evening ended with a big jam session of When the Saints Go Marching In. The performers marched into the crowd as people grabbed tambourines, harmonicas and kazoos to join in. A great sendoff for a wonderful man whose laughter and music brightened many people's lives.
July 8, 2009
Over 300 people packed Stewart Memorial Church, on July 8, 2009 to pay their respects.
Among the attendees were former Ontario Lieutenant Governor Lincoln Alexander, whom the Spectator quoted saying that there would never be another like him again.
In the article, former manager Bill Powell spoke about how Jackie turned down a lucrative deal opening for Harry Belafonte because it would take him away from his family.
Also,
Among the attendees were former Ontario Lieutenant Governor Lincoln Alexander, whom the Spectator quoted saying that there would never be another like him again.
In the article, former manager Bill Powell spoke about how Jackie turned down a lucrative deal opening for Harry Belafonte because it would take him away from his family.
Also,
Videos
Video above courtesy of highorhurtin
Video above courtesy of Vinyldrome
Links: Jackie Washington, More Jackie Washington Stories, Video above courtesy of MOCM - Museum of Canadian Music
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Posts
Sorry to hear! Wishing all my love to the family and to all the love ones..
ReplyDeleteBe safe luv always.
Petra
Beautiful Québec City
I offer my condolences to Jackie's family and friends.
ReplyDeleteHe was a great man, and I feel honored to have had the chance to know him and even jam with him on one or two occasions back in the 70's.
He was a very sweet man, and a living encyclopedia of Jazz and Blues, I learned from him about stage composure, and tips on playing rhythm guitar.
Rest in peace Jackie.
Eli Dr. Blues Marcus,
Toronto/Tel Aviv