The music world is mourning the loss of Quincy Jones, the iconic producer and cultural trailblazer, who passed away on November 3 at his Los Angeles home due to pancreatic cancer. He was 91. According to his death certificate, obtained by PEOPLE, Jones’s death was caused by complications related to the disease, a diagnosis that the family had kept private until now.
Jones’s family shared their heartbreak in a statement, describing his passing as an “incredible loss” but choosing to honor his legacy with gratitude. “Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones’ passing,” they said. “He is truly one of a kind, and we will miss him dearly; we take comfort and immense pride in knowing that the love and joy, that were the essence of his being, were shared with the world through all that he created.”
The private funeral, held a week after his death, was attended by his close family members, including his seven children and siblings. A larger public memorial is in the works to give fans and the industry he transformed a chance to pay their respects and celebrate the legacy of a man whose music has impacted generations.
Quincy Jones, often hailed as one of the greatest music producers of all time, spent decades shaping the sound of modern music. With a career spanning over seven decades, he produced some of the most defining records of the 20th century. His work on Michael Jackson’s groundbreaking album Thriller, which remains the best-selling album of all time, solidified his place in music history. He also played an instrumental role in bringing jazz, pop, and R&B to the forefront of popular culture and earned 28 Grammy Awards, a testament to his unparalleled influence.
The Jones family expressed their deep appreciation for the outpouring of support from fans worldwide. “We are enormously grateful for the condolences and tributes that have come in from friends, fans, and colleagues around the globe,” the family said, hinting that additional details for a public memorial would be announced soon.
Rashida Jones, Quincy’s daughter and a respected actress, shared a heartfelt tribute to her father on social media, describing him as “a giant. An icon. A culture shifter. A genius.” Her words reflect the deep admiration she held for him, not just as an influential public figure, but as a father. “I was fortunate enough to experience this love in close proximity,” Rashida wrote. “I’ll miss his hugs and kisses and unconditional devotion and advice. Daddy, it is an honor to be your daughter. Your love lives forever.”
Beyond his extraordinary career, Jones leaves behind a legacy marked by his commitment to humanitarian causes, mentorship of young musicians, and a relentless pursuit of artistic innovation. He was known for his boundless love and joy, qualities that his family says will live on through the music he created and the lives he touched.
As the world prepares to say a final goodbye to Quincy Jones, his contributions to music and culture will remain a source of inspiration. In the words of his family, “Through his music and his boundless love, Quincy Jones’ heart will beat for eternity.”
