Vanessa Williams‘ mother Helen has died during a birthday trip to London to see her daughter perform in the West End.
The 61-year-old actress has been plunged into mourning following the loss of her mom, who died at The London Clinic on Dec. 28 due to complications from “acute liver failure” after flying to the British capital for a special holiday to celebrate her 85th birthday to see Vanessa on stage in a musical adaptation of the film The Devil Wears Prada. The London Clinic, established in 1932, is one of Britain’s largest private hospitals.
“On December 28th, the world lost a powerhouse, dynamo and force of nature packed into a 5-foot frame,” Vanessa confirmed the sad news in a statement posted on Instagram which read.
“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. It’s impossible to describe all she meant to everyone because each person saw a different facet of her. Loyal friend to many, icy stares to a chosen few. We will miss it all.” The heartfelt tribute garnered thousands of supportive responses from fans and fellow performers.
Her message added: “During her visit [to London] she suffered a major decline in health which ended her life.” The West End production had been a highly anticipated event in London’s theater season.
The actress went on to add “some reflections” on Helen’s “remarkable life” after working as a teacher and college professor before retiring in 1996. Her educational career spanned over three decades, impacting countless students’ lives.
The statement revealed Helen would tell her students: “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.” This philosophy of determination and excellence was reflected in her own life achievements.
It added that she was a “shopping devotee”, loved travel and was a devoted grandmother. Her passion for travel had taken her to over 30 countries throughout her lifetime, experiencing diverse cultures and creating lasting memories with her family.
As well as being mom to Vanessa, she was also mother to a son named Christopher. Her husband of 45 years, Milton, died in 2006. The family maintained strong bonds throughout their lives, often supporting each other’s endeavors and celebrations.
Helen will be remembered at “intimate private memorial services” in January and the family has asked for donations to be given to the Helen Tinch Williams Vocal Performance Fund. This fund continues her legacy of supporting education and the arts.
Helen’s impact extended beyond her immediate family, touching many lives through her work in education and her community involvement. She was known for her dedication to advancing educational opportunities, particularly in the performing arts, and her commitment to excellence in teaching.
Throughout her career, she advocated for arts education and cultural awareness, establishing programs that continue to benefit students today. Her work as an educator helped shape the futures of many young people, inspiring them to pursue their dreams with the same determination she exemplified.
The timing of her passing, during what was meant to be a joyous celebration of her life and her daughter’s achievements, adds a particularly poignant note to her story. She had traveled to London not only to celebrate her birthday but to witness her daughter’s success in one of the West End’s most anticipated productions.
Her legacy lives on through the Helen Tinch Williams Vocal Performance Fund, which provides opportunities for aspiring performers and continues her lifelong commitment to education and the arts. The fund serves as a testament to her belief in the transformative power of education and the performing arts.
