The family of Angie Stone has released a heartfelt statement following the Grammy-nominated singer’s sudden passing in a fatal car crash in Montgomery, Alabama on Saturday morning. She was 63 years old.
“It is with heavy hearts that the children of R&B singer Angie Stone, along with her extended family, want to thank you all for your love and well wishes during what is an extremely difficult time,” the statement reads.
Stone’s children, Diamond Stone and Michael Archer, are asking for privacy as they grieve, noting that their mother’s impact on music and the Black community will live on.
“Angie was an example for Black women and girls everywhere. Angie also loved and championed for Black men with her Number One hit entitled ‘Brotha,’” the family said.
A pioneer in rap music, Stone began her career as part of the female hip-hop trio The Sequence, best known for their 1979 hit “Funk You Up.” She later transitioned into R&B, becoming a key figure in neo-soul, with classic records like “No More Rain” and “Wish I Didn’t Miss You.”
Beyond her music, Stone was committed to giving back to the community through her foundation, Angel Stripes, the Angie Stone Foundation. She had also recently been pursuing ministry studies, as her faith played a central role in her life.
Stone’s sudden passing has devastated family, friends, and fans. According to reports, she was traveling back to Atlanta after performing in Mobile, Alabama when her Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van overturned on Interstate 65 and was struck by a semi-truck. She was the only fatality, while eight others in the vehicle were injured.
“We are truly devastated at this unexpected and unfortunate tragedy, and there are simply no words to express how we feel,” said Walter Millsap III, Stone’s longtime manager.
Her record label, SRG/ILS, confirmed that she had been scheduled to perform at a college basketball championship game in Baltimore just hours after the crash. Instead, the CIAA held a moment of silence in her honor.
Stone’s family is currently planning funeral and memorial services so that fans can honor her life, music, and legacy. While she is no longer physically here, they ask that her supporters keep her memory alive.
Rest in peace to a true icon.
