Queen Latifah’s mother, Rita Owens, passed away on Wednesday after struggling with a heart condition for more than a decade. Queen Latifah announced her mothers condition in a statement to PEOPLE magazine.
“It is with a heavy heart that I share the news my mother, Rita Owens passed away today,” says Latifah. “Anyone that has ever met her knows what a bright light she was on this earth. She was gentle, but strong, sweet, but sassy, worldy but pragmatic, a woman of great faith and certainly the love of my life.”
“She had struggled with a heart condition for many years and her battle is now over,” Latifah shares. “I am heartbroken but know she is at peace. Thank you for your kindness, support and respect for our privacy at this time. Much Love, Dana Owens (aka Queen Latifah), forever Rita Owens’ daughter.”
In September, the Girl’s Trip actress opened up about her mother’s years-long battle.
“I’ve just learned how much you can love a person and just how strong my mother is,” she shared of her mother during a sit-down with PEOPLE Now. “I’ve come to respect her in ways you can’t even imagine.”
Rita Owens has been a major part of Queen Latifahs Life. She even made vistits to the set of her old show “Living Single”. In that small scene it’s obvious of the bond they shared.
Queen LatifAh praises her mom for raising her and her brother. As well as showing some childhood photos.
[/video]Along with others we are sharing some of these unforgettable, amazing memories of Rita Owens.
