6-26-2016 Tribute to Jess Flores

Renaigius David Flores (aka Jess Flores)
Sunrise: October 1, 1958
Sunset: June 21, 2016
Jess Flores was one of the first people we had the honor of meeting and getting to know when we came to Hopkins, Belize.
He was an amazing musician who worked hard to keep alive the Garifuna music and culture. He was warm and kind and
generous.  Whether at performances around the village or just hanging out, we saw him at least once or twice a week, and his
friendship is greatly missed.

Our friend Trevor had played music with Jess for several years, so when he heard about Jess' passing he flew in and organized
a tribute concert in the village. Since we're living in Trevor's house right now, everyone came over to practice on our front
porch all afternoon before the concert. The usual musicians, as well as several amazing guests performed.

Jess' young son, "Pappy", played the maracas (locally called shakas - sp?) all afternoon and at the
concert that night.

At just 6 years old he has definite natural music talent!

The music was incredible - especially on the front porch!

It was also incredibly emotional for everyone there.

That night was the concert in the park at the main junction in Hopkins. Pretty much the whole village came out, plus a bus
full of people from Dangriga.

It rained, but that didn't dampen the scene. Everybody loved the really beautiful tribute.

To hear some of Jess' music and read more about him, go to the memorial site we set up at www.jessflores.family/