Jimmy Cliff to be given official funeral

Culture minister Olivia Grange says reggae legend Jimmy Cliff will be given an official funeral and that final arrangements will be announced soon.

Grange told Parliament on Tuesday that the music icon left clear instructions about how he wanted Jamaica to bid him farewell.

She shared that she spoke with Jimmy Cliff shortly before his death and he was eager to return home to help rebuild after Hurricane Melissa. Grange said he was especially focused on helping the parish of his birth, St James.

As Parliament paid tribute, Grange hailed Jimmy Cliff as one of Jamaica's most important cultural figures whose music and work have shaped generations. She noted that his impact stretched far beyond entertainment, calling him a symbol of Jamaican pride and resilience.

Jimmy Cliff, born James Chambers, was known worldwide for classics like Many Rivers to Cross, I Can See Clearly Now and The Harder They Come, and for starring in the landmark film of the same name.

The official funeral will honour his extraordinary contribution to Jamaica and the world.

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