Michaela DePrince's mother Elaine dies one day after adoptive daughter’s unexpected death at 29

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: The DePrince family is mourning a profound double tragedy as Elaine DePrince, mother of renowned ballerina Michaela DePrince, died just 24 hours after her daughter's unexpected death.

Michaela, who was celebrated for her performances with the Boston Ballet, died on September 10 at the age of 29. Elaine, a resident of Cherry Hill, NJ, died on September 11 following a routine medical procedure, according to family spokesperson Jessica Volinski, as reported by People. The cause of Michaela's death has not been disclosed at this time.

Michaela DePrince's mother dies a day after daughter’s sudden death at 29

In a heartfelt Facebook post, Volinski shared the family's devastating news, stating, “The last few days have been even more difficult than most people realize because the family has also been dealing with the death of Michaela’s adoptive mother Elaine.”

Elaine “died during a routine procedure in preparation for a surgery," Volinski mentioned, adding that although, “Michaela died before Elaine,” her mother “did not know of Michaela’s passing at the time of her procedure.”

"As unbelievable as it may seem, the two deaths were completely unrelated,” Volinski wrote, adding that Elaine had previously lost three children, and “was by the grace of God spared the pain of experiencing the loss of a fourth child."

"What the family is going through right now is truly unimaginably painful. Grieving two family members who died within a 24 hour period is tragic and devastating,” the post stated.

Michaela DePrince, known for her extraordinary talent and resilience, was a prominent figure in the ballet world. Her life story, featured in the 2011 documentary 'First Position,' highlighted her journey from an orphanage in Sierra Leone to becoming a celebrated ballerina.

She trained at the American Ballet Theatre's Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School of Ballet, danced with the Dance Theatre of Harlem, and later joined the Dutch National Ballet and Boston Ballet as a principal soloist.

The news of Michaela's death was confirmed via her official Instagram account on September 13. The statement from "Team MDP" praised her as a “beacon of hope,” emphasizing her impact on ballet and her inspiring story. “Her unwavering commitment to her art, her humanitarian efforts, and her courage in overcoming unimaginable challenges will forever inspire us,” the tribute read.

"Though her time with us was far too brief, her brilliance and legacy will continue to shine in the hearts of all who were touched by her story, for generations to come. Love and prayers go to her chosen family, friends, and those who loved her."

Internet reacts to Michaela DePrince and her mother's death

The death of ballerina Michaela DePrince's mother, Elaine DePrince, just a day after Michaela's sudden death has deeply affected many. As news of the double tragedy spread, Facebook users have expressed their profound sorrow and sympathy for the grieving family.

One user wrote, "Just heartbreaking, may God hold them both in his arms forever, rest in peace always dear Angels."

Another commented, "How incredibly sad for their family to lose two loved ones back to back. My sincerest condolences to all of them and their friends. May they Rest Easy Together."

A user shared, "After losing 3 other children, I think God was sparing her this pain for a 4th time. Instead, her children were there to greet her," highlighting the belief that Elaine may have been comforted by the presence of her lost children.

One individual wrote, "So sorry to hear this. Sending heartfelt Condolences and healing prayers for her family and friends," while another added, "So very sorry for this family’s grief, now doubled. Sending them love."

Another user simply noted, "Deepest and sincere condolences to her entire family and friends sleep in sweet peace."

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