Vanessa Williams has confirmed the passing of her beloved mother, Helen, describing her as “remarkable.” Helen, aged 85, passed away on December 28 at The London Clinic, following complications from acute liver failure.
Helen had traveled to the UK to celebrate her milestone birthday and to see Vanessa perform in the stage adaptation of The Devil Wears Prada. The tragic loss occurred during what was intended to be a joyous occasion.
Vanessa Williams shared the heartbreaking news of her mother’s passing in a heartfelt Instagram post, paying tribute to Helen Williams as a “loyal friend and powerhouse.”
In her statement, Vanessa wrote: “On December 28th, the world lost a powerhouse, dynamo, and force of nature packed into a 5ft frame. Our mom, Helen Williams, aka Gaga to many, took her final bow in London 20 days after celebrating her 85th birthday surrounded by family and friends.”
The tribute highlighted Helen’s vibrant spirit and the profound impact she had on those around her.
Vanessa Williams shared additional reflections on her late mother, Helen Williams, highlighting her multifaceted personality and profound impact on those around her.
“It’s impossible to describe all she meant to everyone because each person saw a different facet of her,” Vanessa wrote. “Loyal friend to many, icy stares to a chosen few. We will miss it all.” She revealed that Helen’s health significantly declined during her visit to London, ultimately leading to her passing.
Vanessa paid homage to Helen’s remarkable life, noting her career as a dedicated teacher and college professor before her retirement in 1996. Known for her empowering advice to students, Helen often said, “Work the best you can and don’t let anyone tell you that you cannot do something—ever! Make up your mind, prepare yourself, study hard, and be very, very confident.”
Described as a travel enthusiast, shopping devotee, and loving grandmother, Helen leaves behind her daughter Vanessa, son Christopher, and the legacy of her late husband Milton, to whom she was married for 45 years until his passing in 2006.
The family has planned intimate private memorial services in January and has requested donations to the Helen Tinch Williams Vocal Performance Fund in lieu of flowers.
Vanessa, currently starring as Miranda Priestly in the musical adaptation of The Devil Wears Prada, continues to honor her mother’s vibrant spirit while navigating this profound loss.
