KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Jamaican government will hold an official state funeral for the late reggae pioneer Jimmy Cliff on Wednesday, December 17, a ceremony befitting his monumental status in the nation’s cultural history. The service is scheduled to commence at 10:00 a.m. at the National Indoor Sports Centre.
The formal announcement was made by Olivia Grange, Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, who emphasized the government’s decision to honor Cliff was a direct recognition of his “immense contribution to Jamaican Culture and Entertainment.” The arrangements are being meticulously coordinated by a collaborative effort involving the Office of the Prime Minister, the Ministry of Culture, and the family of the late icon.
Born James Chambers in 1944, Jimmy Cliff achieved global acclaim as a foundational figure in popularizing reggae music. His passing on November 24, 2025, at the age of 81, prompted an outpouring of grief from fans and dignitaries worldwide.
Minister Grange stated that the memorial service will serve as a national platform for the country to collectively “bid farewell to an outstanding son of Jamaica; an icon.” In a poignant adherence to the artist’s own desires, the ceremony will forego traditional eulogies in favor of a celebration through the art forms he championed: exclusively featuring spoken word tributes, dance performances, and musical renditions.