The mom of actresses Debbie Allen and Phylicia Rashad, Vivian Ayers, handed away on Monday, August 18, simply weeks after celebrating her 102nd birthday.
S.W.A.T. star Allen shared the information on her Instagram web page on Wednesday (August 20), writing, “Mommie you have got reworked into that cosmic hen Hawk that lives and breathes Freedom,” referencing considered one of her mom’s most well-known works, her 1957 long-form poem Hawk.
“We are going to observe your path of golden mud and proceed to climb increased. We promise “to be true be stunning be Free,” Allen continued earlier than together with the names of her siblings and different relations. Alongside the message, she shared a gallery of candy household images set to Stevie Surprise’s “Golden Woman.”
Born on July 29, 1923, in Chester, South Carolina, Ayers had an extended and diversified profession, identified for her work as a poet, playwright, cultural activist, museum curator, and classicist. She additionally printed the literary journal The Adept Quarterly, organized group arts tasks for the native Black group in New York, and was the founding director of the Brainerd Institute Heritage.
Her household beforehand celebrated her one centesimal birthday with an occasion on the grounds of the Brainerd Institute, the place This Is Us alum Rashad learn Hawk with musical accompaniment from the Claflin College Choir. One other celebration was held on the Rhimes Performing Arts Middle in Los Angeles, with readings from Allen and different celebrities, together with Angela Bassett, Jesse Williams, and extra.
A number of of Allen and Rashad’s well-known associates flooded the newest Instagram put up with tributes and condolences.
“Sorry to your loss praying for your loved ones,” Octavia Spencer wrote.
Storm Reid added, “Mrs Debbie I’m sending you and your loved ones a giant hug full of love and prayers.”
“Relaxation properly Queen 🕊🕊🕊🤍🤍🤍,” stated Taraji P. Henson.
“Sorry for the lack of your pricey mom. Might her reminiscence be a blessing 🕊️,” Karen Pittman wrote.
Susan Kelechi Watson stated, “What a light-weight on this world. Sending my love and deepest condolences 🙏🏽💜.”
Final month, Allen shared a video marking Ayers’ 102nd birthday, exhibiting her mom sitting in entrance of a cake whereas her household gathered round her. “Mommy, it’s your 102nd birthday,” Allen stated within the clip earlier than everybody began singing “Joyful Birthday” to her.
“Celebrating 102 Years with MaTurk! ✨💐🎂,” Allen wrote within the caption. “My massive brother, Tex created a jazz live performance for her. 4 generations confirmed as much as rejoice and @iamBrandonONeal despatched a gorgeous bday tribute. Thanks to all of those who despatched flowers to point out their love! The celebration continues…💋”