State Funeral: Gov't To Honour Departed Legend, Burial Date To Be Announced Soon

Reggae fans around the world are mourning the death of Jimmy Cliff, the Jamaican music icon whose influence helped shape the global reggae sound. 

The Jamaican government has announced that Cliff, who died on Monday, November 24 at the age of 81, will be honoured with an official state funeral.

The confirmation came from Jamaica’s Minister of Culture, Olivia Grange, who addressed Parliament on Tuesday, November 25. 

She noted that preparations were underway and that full details would be released once discussions with the late musician’s family were completed.

The announcement was made as lawmakers paid tribute to the singer, actor and songwriter, whose career spanned more than six decades. 

Grange revealed that Cliff — born James Chambers — had left clear instructions on how he wanted his final farewell handled.

According to the minister, the Prime Minister and the late musician’s wife, Latifa, had held a 45-minute conversation earlier that day to discuss Cliff’s final wishes.

“He is one of Jamaica’s greatest artistes and one of our beloved sons,” Grange told the House. 

“The Prime Minister has given me the honour of confirming that Jimmy Cliff will receive an official funeral. His wife shared that he had specific instructions on how he wanted Jamaica to remember him, and those details will be shared with the public at a later time.”

Prime Minister Andrew Holness also mourned the reggae legend, calling him a towering figure in Jamaican culture.

“Jimmy Cliff has taken his final bow, but his voice will continue to echo for generations,” Holness said.

“His life shows that Jamaica’s creativity is world-class. His music — told in our rhythm and our language — has touched hearts across the globe.”

Cliff is regarded as a cornerstone of reggae, best known for hits like “Many Rivers to Cross,” “Sitting in Limbo,” 

“The Harder They Come” and “You Can Get It If You Really Want.” His music not only popularised the genre internationally but also opened doors for other Jamaican artistes.

News of the state funeral sparked emotional reactions online, with fans praising Jamaica for honouring one of its most influential musicians.

One fan wrote that Jamaica was right to celebrate Cliff with dignity, noting that countries should preserve their cultural icons. 

Another highlighted Cliff’s immense contribution to the industry, claiming that he had a hand in shaping the careers of other big names — including Bob Marley in his early years.

Others suggested establishing an annual “Jimmy Cliff Day” to celebrate his legacy, while some wondered whether the funeral would include full state honours such as the traditional 21-gun salute.

Cliff’s wife broke the news of his passing through a heartfelt message posted online. She revealed that the legendary singer suffered a seizure, which was followed by pneumonia. 

She thanked fans and medical staff for their support and asked for privacy as the family mourns.

Jimmy Cliff’s Influence stretched beyond music. He acted in the classic Jamaican film The Harder They Come, a production widely credited with introducing reggae to international audiences. 

His work has inspired musicians across continents, and his songs remain deeply rooted in global pop culture.