Image by Photo credit: Reese Moore

Updates are at the bottom:

It has been nearly a year since the passing of local jazz legend Jack McCray.

A writer, musician and historian, McCray was heavily involved in the Charleston jazz scene. His friends and co-workers at the Jazz Artists of Charleston have put out a "save the date" notice for an upcoming event that will both honor and celebrate his life. Below is the newsletter sent out to subscribing members of the JAC mailing list: 

Dear Friends and Family,

Jack McCray spent the last thirty years of his life building strong and relevant relationships with many people around the world. He had a love for family, history, research, writing, food, music, jazz, people, life and his beloved Charleston. He was a man of great vision and is a man whose legacy lives on in the work he brought to life. Jack's Charleston Jazz family has spent the last nine months continuing to execute and build upon many of the ideas, projects and programs that he had a significant hand in creating. We invite you to celebrate the life and legacy of Jack McCray. Join us as we pay tribute to our dear friend - a true visionary, founding board member, colleague, and stranger to no one.

We will announce additional information as it is available. Thank you for your love and support throughout this very difficult time. We - together - shall move forward ever.

Jazzingly Yours,

Leah M. Suárez Executive Director

The event is scheduled for October 7, 2012 at the Memminger Auditorium.

Update September 17: The JAC has released some additional information on the Jack McCray tribute event on October 7.

Here's what's new:

• Tickets are on sale now. Individual reserved seating is available in floor risers and the balcony for $25. Table seating (6 seats per table) tarts at $50 per seat. Tables sold by seat or table.
• Guests are encouraged to match their ticket price, or more, with a contribution to the Jack McCray Memorial Fund. The Fund will benefit the missions of JAC, CJO, CJI and the Jack McCray Literary Fund.
• The event will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. and will have a cash bar. Doors open at 3 p.m.

Update September 30: The very special guest for the Jack McCray tribute event has been announced.

In combination with her small ensemble - one of Jack's favorites - internationally renowned vocalist, René Marie will be performing.

Back in 2009, Jack wrote a feature on Marie which was published in The Post and Courier. Read it here.

Update October 30:To celebrate what would have been Jack's 65th birthday today, October 30, the Jazz Artists of Charleston have are sharing the tribute video produced by Farrah Hoffmire and Mitchell Davis with Organic Process Productions.

Jack Arthur McCray Video Tribute from Jazz Artists of Charleston on Vimeo.

View the full video below: