The Notorious B.I.G.'s Mother, Voletta Wallace, Dies At 78

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Post on Feb 22, 2025

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

Los Angeles, CA – Voletta Wallace, the matriarch of the Wallace family and mother of the iconic rapper The Notorious B.I.G., passed away at the age of 78 on Saturday, April 15, 2023, at her Los Angeles home. While the cause of death has not been officially released, reports indicate that she suffered a brief illness. The news was confirmed by her son, Christopher Jordan Wallace, on his Instagram page, where he shared a poignant tribute to his mother. Her death marks a significant loss for the hip-hop community and beyond, as Wallace was not only a devoted mother, but a prominent figure in her own right, known for her tireless work in championing her son's legacy and philanthropic endeavors.

Wallace's life was intrinsically linked to the meteoric rise and tragic fall of her son, Christopher Wallace, better known as The Notorious B.I.G. She played a crucial role in shaping his life and career, offering unwavering support even as her son navigated the complexities of the rap world. While she was protective of her son, she also understood his artistic drive and ambitions, fostering his creativity and encouraging his pursuit of his musical dreams. This close relationship is well-documented in numerous biographies and documentaries chronicling the life of the legendary rapper.

Following her son's untimely death in 1997, Voletta Wallace remained a powerful force, dedicating herself to preserving his legacy. She established the Christopher Wallace Memorial Foundation, a non-profit organization aiming to support underprivileged youth through educational and community programs. This commitment to giving back mirrored the values she instilled in her son and provided a lasting tribute to his memory. The foundation’s work included initiatives to provide educational opportunities, promote positive community engagement, and combat youth violence.

Beyond her philanthropic work, Wallace remained a visible figure in the hip-hop world, frequently attending events and speaking publicly about her son's life and achievements. She was often interviewed, sharing intimate details about her relationship with her son and offering insights into his creative process and personality. These interviews revealed not only a mother's love, but also a sharp and insightful woman who understood the impact of her son's music and his influence on a generation.

The outpouring of grief and tributes following the announcement of her passing underscores the profound impact she had on both the hip-hop community and beyond. Many fellow artists, celebrities, and fans have taken to social media to express their condolences and share memories of her warm personality and unwavering strength. Her contributions extended beyond the realm of philanthropy; she was a symbol of resilience, a mother's unwavering love, and a powerful voice in the hip-hop community. Voletta Wallace's legacy will undoubtedly live on, both through the ongoing work of her foundation and the enduring impact of her son's music, a legacy she tirelessly nurtured and protected. Her death marks the end of an era, leaving behind a void that will be felt deeply by countless individuals who were touched by her life and work. Funeral arrangements have not yet been publicly announced.