Notorious BIG’s mother Voletta Wallace dies at 72 as fans honor her devotion to late rapper's legacy

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA: Voletta Wallace, the mother of the iconic late rapper Christopher George Latore Wallace, known by the stage names the Notorious BIG and Biggie Smalls, has died at the age of 72.

She died peacefully in hospice care at her home in Pennsylvania on the morning of Friday, February 21, from natural causes, according to a report by TMZ. There is a discrepancy over Wallace's real age, as some media reports have mentioned she died at the age of 78. 

For more than 28 years, Wallace devoted herself to preserving the legacy of the Notorious BIG, who was tragically murdered in 1997 at the age of 24.

Voletta Wallace remembered for unwavering dedication to preserving son’s legacy

Voletta Wallace is remembered for her unwavering dedication to preserving the memory of her son. She played a crucial role in ensuring that his multi-million dollar estate was passed down to his family, including his daughter, T’yanna Wallace, The Sun reported.

As a dedicated Jehovah's Witness, Voletta referred to herself on her social media profiles as "Protecting the Legacy of my son Christopher Wallace. Grandmother, Avid Gardener and a faithful servant of God."

She often used her Instagram to celebrate her son's accomplishments, sharing memories and moments that paid tribute to his influence on music and culture.

Biggie, whose real name was Christopher Wallace, was tragically killed in a drive-by shooting in Los Angeles in 1997. His murder remains unsolved. Despite the immense loss, Voletta worked tirelessly to keep her son's legacy alive, making sure his work and impact were never forgotten.

In a poignant tribute to Biggie's posthumous album 'Life After Death' (released in 1999), Voletta expressed her deep love for her son, sharing a heartfelt message: "If I could sum up Christopher in one word the word would be generous," the mom said.

She added, "The thing that my son loved most about life was the fact that he was in a position to help, position to share."

Voletta Wallace reflects on Biggie’s legacy and accomplishments

In 2020, Voletta Wallace celebrated her son’s induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. “Today, I’m feeling great,” she told Billboard at the time.

"As a mother, I’m extremely proud of his accomplishments. You know, I still see such a young man at a young age, and sadly, he’s not here to witness all this. But it’s an astute honor, and as a mother, I’m just elated for that," she said.

She added, “Many of [his songs] speak truth. It might be gritty, and maybe the language is so out there, but he was honest. There was nothing fake about what he was doing. I think for such a young man to resonate such honesty in his lyrics is awesome.”

Voletta’s love for her son continued to shine through in her messages to fans. In September 2024, when Biggie’s music surpassed 2.5 billion all-time plays on Apple Music, Voletta posted an emotional message on Instagram, thanking the fans for keeping his legacy alive.

Her most recent post was about Biggie’s millions of listeners on Spotify.

Fans reflect on Voletta Wallace’s strength and dedication following her death

Social media users have been sharing heartfelt tributes to Voletta Wallace, remembering her as a strong, devoted mother who tirelessly sought justice for her son, the late rapper Notorious BIG.

An X user said, "Voletta Wallace had to have been a strong woman, after hearing about her son, Christopher Wallace being assassinated. Plus, I've been told that she was doing whatever was necessary to solve her son's murder. Well, at least she can rest in peace and see her son again."

Another added, "May she rest in peace now she can see her son again."

A third commentator remarked, "She did everything in her power to find justice and answers for her son's murder, as a mother (parent) should. I tip my cap to her!"

"I truly hope biggie was waiting for her at the gate of heaven to welcome her," said a fan.

A person said, "Send my deepest condolences to the family. Praying that god gives the family strength guidance through this difficult time."

Another added, "Wow she was the sweetest person I have ever met and talk w !! Rip she will be missed."

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