Rashida Jones reveals Quincy Jones prepared his honorary Oscar speech before passing

Rashida Jones paid an emotional tribute to her late father, music legend Quincy Jones, while accepting his honorary Lifetime Achievement Oscar at the 15th Governor Awards. Quincy, who passed away from pancreatic cancer on November 3 at the age of 91, had been preparing to attend the ceremony and had written a speech expressing his gratitude and reflecting on his groundbreaking career.

Rashida, joined by her siblings, read his words, sharing how he dreamed of composing for films as a teenager in Seattle and proudly celebrated his impact on the evolution of diversity in Hollywood.

The family’s attendance marked their first public appearance since Quincy’s death, which was followed by a private funeral in Los Angeles. Rashida described her father’s legacy as one of love, urging the audience to honor him by listening to his music. “He infused love into every single second of music he made,” she said, emphasizing how Quincy lived his life fully and inspired others to do the same. Plans for a larger public memorial are currently underway.