The world mourns the loss of Voletta Wallace, the mother of legendary rapper The Notorious B.I.G., who passed away at the age of 72. Known for her unwavering dedication to preserving her son’s legacy, Wallace’s passing marks the end of an era for fans and the hip-hop community alike.

According to Monroe County Coroner Thomas Yanac, Wallace died on Friday morning in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, while in hospice care. Her cause of death has been attributed to natural causes, bringing a solemn close to a life filled with both triumph and tragedy.

Born in Trelawny, Jamaica, Voletta Wallace was a strong and resilient woman who immigrated to the United States in search of a better future. She settled in Brooklyn, New York, where she raised her son, Christopher Wallace, who would later become one of the most influential and celebrated rappers of all time under the stage name The Notorious B.I.G. As a single mother, Wallace worked tirelessly as a preschool teacher to provide for her son, instilling in him the values of hard work and perseverance that would later define his career.

Following Christopher’s tragic murder in 1997, Wallace dedicated much of her life to preserving and honoring his legacy. She became the overseer of Biggie’s estate, a role that required immense dedication and strategic planning. Under her stewardship, the estate grew from an estimated $10 million at the time of Biggie’s death to approximately $160 million today. This growth was largely attributed to Wallace’s business acumen and her commitment to ensuring that her son’s music, image, and name continued to generate income for his family, including his daughter, T’yanna Wallace.

A steadfast advocate for her son’s legacy, Wallace worked tirelessly to keep his memory alive. She played a key role in organizing numerous tribute events, overseeing the release of posthumous albums, and maintaining a strong social media presence dedicated to celebrating Biggie’s contributions to music and culture. Her influence extended beyond the business aspect of Biggie’s estate; she also spearheaded charitable initiatives in his name, ensuring that his impact reached communities in need.

One of Wallace’s most significant accomplishments was her involvement in the production of the 2009 biopic “Notorious,” a film that chronicled the life and career of her son. She served as an executive producer, ensuring that the story was told with authenticity and respect. Wallace often spoke about the importance of sharing Christopher’s story with the world, emphasizing the need for young artists to understand both the highs and lows of the music industry.

Her efforts to immortalize her son’s legacy extended to his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2020, a milestone she celebrated with great pride. Wallace frequently shared updates on Biggie’s streaming milestones, tribute concerts, and cultural honors, solidifying her role as the guardian of his legacy.

Biggie, whose real name was Christopher Wallace, was tragically killed in a drive-by shooting in Los Angeles on March 9, 1997, just months after the murder of his fellow rap icon Tupac Shakur. His death remains one of the most infamous unsolved murders in hip-hop history, a painful reality that Wallace had to endure for over two decades. Despite her grief, she remained a dignified and outspoken advocate for justice, consistently calling for answers in her son’s case while refusing to let his contributions to music be overshadowed by his untimely demise.

The hip-hop community, celebrities, and fans have taken to social media to express their condolences and share memories of Voletta Wallace. Her impact was far-reaching, not just as Biggie’s mother but as a woman who turned her pain into purpose, ensuring that her son’s influence continued to inspire generations.

As the world bids farewell to Voletta Wallace, her legacy remains intact. She was more than just the mother of The Notorious B.I.G.—she was a pillar of strength, a businesswoman, and an unwavering advocate for her son’s artistic and cultural contributions. Through her work, she ensured that Biggie’s name and music would live on forever, leaving an indelible mark on the world of hip-hop and beyond.

Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced, but tributes continue to pour in from those who admired Wallace’s resilience and dedication. Fans are encouraged to honor her memory by continuing to celebrate the music and legacy of The Notorious B.I.G., just as she devoted her life to doing.