Frank Mingo (also known as Mingo Jones), one of the last living musicians to have played at the renown jazz clubs of Indiana Avenue, passed away this Monday in his home at the age of 88.
He is survived by his wife Brenda, daughter Karen Lynette McGhee, three step-children, five grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.
According to his wife, Brenda Jones, the cause of his death was throat cancer, which he had been battling since 2014. The cancer resurfaced in January, and Jones declined treatment.
Jones was an influential bassist and trumpeter who performed regularly at Indiana Avenue jazz clubs, such as George’s Bar, the Ritz Lounge, the Cotton Club, and the Grenadier Club.
The musician got his big break when he went to Henri’s nightclub to see Wes Montgomery perform. When Montgomery’s bassist was a no-show, Jones offered to perform, and Montgomery agreed. He was asked back to play the next night. Jones’ career as a professional musician skyrocketed from there.
Jones will be sorely missed by jazz enthusiasts and his fellow musicians alike.
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