York Minster will host the funeral of Dr Francis Jackson CBE, Organist Emeritus on Thursday 3 February online and in the Minster.

Born in 1917, Francis Jackson spent his childhood in the town of Malton. He first became involved in York Minster’s music as a schoolboy chorister in 1929. After active service as a soldier in the Second World War, he returned to York Minster in 1946 to become Master of the Music, succeeding his teacher and mentor, Sir Edward Bairstow. He served for a remarkable 36 years alongside his illustrious career as an internationally renowned organ recitalist and composer.

His funeral is held in York Minster, which held a deep significance for him; Francis retained an active, humorous and intellectually razor-sharp interest in the musical life of the building. He has been an inspiration to generations of choristers and musicians alike; here in York and across the world. He leaves a lasting, living legacy in the vibrant life of the Choir of York Minster, through a body of work and musical compositions which are sung and played at the Minster on a regular basis.

The service will be sung by the Choir of York Minster and all the music was chosen by Dr Jackson. The collection from the service will go to the Francis Jackson Choral Fund, donations can be made HERE.

Members of the York Minster community and wider public are welcome to attend, no booking is required.

The service will also be livestreamed on our YouTube channel and via this page:

The order of service is available here.