Molly Brown, a music lover who provided a haven for local artists with her late husband, Hubert Brown, has died at the age of 86.

The couple gave Bermuda two “institutions”, former MP Dale Butler said: Hubie’s Bar, and the popular Fish Hut on Court Street.

Mr Butler added: “They were both hardworking, dedicated and committed working-class people who were humble and unassuming about their contributions through their jazz club and famous eatery.”

Mrs Brown’s love of live music made her a familiar figure to local artists — and the bar’s contribution to the island’s social scene was captured in Mr Butler’s documentary Chilled and Shaken.

She was honoured with a special showing of the film earlier this year, which proved a reunion for patrons and entertainers.

Calling her “an inspiration”, Mr Butler said: “She was one of the group of female entrepreneurs like Maria Benn, June Augustus, Olive Trott and others who created a legacy of kindness and giving.”

Mrs Brown’s love of dancing continued “even with her walking stick”, he said.

Her funeral will be held today at St John’s Church in Pembroke.