Rapper Notorious B.I.G.'s Mom, Voletta Wallace, Dies At 78

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Post on Feb 23, 2025

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Voletta Wallace, Mother of Notorious B.I.G., Dies at 78

New York, NY – Voletta Wallace, the matriarch of the Wallace family and mother of the iconic rapper Christopher Wallace, better known as The Notorious B.I.G. or Biggie Smalls, passed away on Saturday, April 15, 2023, at the age of 78. While the exact cause of death hasn't been publicly released, her passing was confirmed by her son, Christopher Wallace Jr., also known as C.J. Wallace, via a heartfelt Instagram post.

The news sent shockwaves through the hip-hop community and beyond, prompting an outpouring of grief and tributes from fellow musicians, fans, and those who knew Wallace personally. She was not just a mother figure to one of hip-hop's most influential artists, but a significant presence in his life and career, a woman whose strength and quiet dignity helped shape the legacy of her son.

Wallace was known for her unwavering support of her son's musical career, even navigating the complex and often dangerous world of the 90s hip-hop scene with a determined spirit. Beyond her role as Biggie's mother, she became a respected figure in the industry herself. She established the Christopher Wallace Memorial Foundation in 2006, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing educational opportunities to underprivileged youth, reflecting her deep commitment to giving back to the community and honoring her son's memory. This foundation has been instrumental in funding scholarships and various community initiatives in Brooklyn and beyond.

Her advocacy extended beyond education. She actively worked to preserve and celebrate her son's musical legacy, playing a critical role in maintaining his image and protecting his intellectual property. She was frequently involved in discussions surrounding his music, its cultural impact, and its ongoing relevance. This proactive stance demonstrated her insightful understanding of the broader implications of her son’s artistic contribution to the music landscape. Her involvement in documentaries, interviews, and various media appearances ensured her son’s story was told accurately and with the respect it deserved.

While details regarding funeral arrangements remain private at this time, it is expected that the service will be a significant event drawing attention from global media and fans mourning the loss of this influential figure in hip-hop history. Tributes have poured in from artists like Sean "Diddy" Combs, who collaborated extensively with Biggie, and countless others who acknowledged Wallace's profound influence on both her son's career and the broader hip-hop scene.

Beyond the public persona, Voletta Wallace was remembered by those closest to her as a loving mother, grandmother, and a woman of unwavering faith. Her personal life, although largely kept out of the public eye, underscored a strength and resilience that helped her navigate the challenges life presented, particularly the tragic loss of her son to a still unsolved murder in 1997.

Voletta Wallace’s legacy extends far beyond being simply the mother of a famous rapper. Her quiet strength, her fierce dedication to her family, and her tireless work with the Christopher Wallace Memorial Foundation stand as a testament to a life well-lived and a lasting impact on the community and the world of hip-hop. Her passing marks the end of an era, leaving a void in the hearts of many, but her memory and influence will continue to inspire for generations to come.