At 78, Voletta Wallace, Mother Of Notorious B.I.G., Passes Away

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Post on Feb 25, 2025

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At 78, Voletta Wallace, Mother of Notorious B.I.G., Passes Away

New York, NY – Voletta Wallace, the matriarch of the Wallace family and mother of the iconic rapper Notorious B.I.G., passed away peacefully at the age of 78 on Saturday, April 22nd, 2023. While the exact cause of death has not been publicly released by the family, reports indicate that she passed away in her sleep at her home. Her passing marks the end of an era for hip-hop fans and a significant loss for those who knew and loved her.

Wallace wasn't just a mother; she was a pivotal figure in the life and career of her son, Christopher Wallace, better known as The Notorious B.I.G., or Biggie Smalls. Beyond her personal influence on the legendary rapper, she played a vital role in preserving his legacy after his tragic death in 1997. Her unwavering support and guidance shaped Biggie's early life, nurturing his talent and providing a grounding presence amidst the burgeoning hip-hop scene. Following Biggie's murder, Voletta became a fierce advocate for his memory, actively participating in the creation of the Christopher Wallace Memorial Foundation. The foundation’s goal is to support underprivileged youth through educational and community outreach programs. This dedication to her son's legacy extended to actively participating in numerous events celebrating Biggie's music and influence, often sharing personal anecdotes and memories that offered a deeply humanizing perspective on the larger-than-life figure her son had become.

Her impact extended beyond her son's success. Voletta Wallace was known for her quiet strength and unwavering determination. She raised her children in Brooklyn, navigating the challenges of raising a family in a sometimes-difficult environment, while instilling in them a strong sense of family and resilience. Those who knew her described her as a devout Christian, a pillar of her community, and a woman of immense grace and fortitude, characteristics that likely shaped Biggie’s own personality and values.

News of her death sparked an outpouring of grief and tributes from across the hip-hop community and beyond. Fans, fellow artists, and public figures took to social media to express their condolences and share memories of the woman who played such a significant role in the life of one of hip-hop’s most influential figures. Many noted her resilience and unwavering love for her son and family, emphasizing her enduring legacy beyond Biggie's music.

While the details surrounding her funeral arrangements have yet to be fully disclosed, the family is expected to release information in the coming days. The passing of Voletta Wallace leaves a void in the hearts of many, but her legacy as a mother, a community member, and a steadfast guardian of her son's memory will continue to live on. Her influence, both direct and indirect, remains imprinted on the landscape of hip-hop culture, serving as a reminder of the profound impact of family and the enduring power of a mother's love. The impact of her loss is undoubtedly felt widely, not just within the Wallace family, but by the countless fans whose lives were touched by the music and the enduring legacy of her son, the Notorious B.I.G.