In a touching tribute, the music community united to pay tribute to the late soul legend Angie Stone, whose contributions to R&B and neo-soul have made an indelible impact on the world of music. A star-studded memorial was hosted Friday, March 14, at the Word of Faith Cathedral in Austell, Georgia, featuring some of the biggest names in entertainment. Other attendees included Tyler Perry, Kirk Franklin, Musiq Soulchild, Anthony Hamilton, and Keke Wyatt, who came to honor her remarkable legacy.
The cathedral was filled, indicating Angie Stone's significance to fans and other artists. During the ceremony, some touching and musical tributes rendered a portrait of a woman whose love of music and indomitable spirit made an indelible imprint on the industry.
Tyler Perry took the stage for an emotional speech, directly speaking to Stone's children, Diamond and Michael, and offering comfort.
"Thank you for letting us do this, to put her to rest in the manner of the queen that she was," Perry said. "To the family, I want you to hear something, especially the children of hers. My mother died at 64. Angie was a year younger than my mother when she died. As she sang, 'time gets a little better.' So my prayer for you is that time is good to you."
Anthony Hamilton, who had previously performed on stage with Stone many times, called her a guiding force in soul music. Overcome with emotion, Keke Wyatt reflected on Stone's support and wisdom throughout her career. All nine speakers said the same thing: Angie Stone wasn't just a musician; she was a mentor, a friend, and a powerhouse of inspiration.
The memorial to Stone's life was held just days after the horrific crash that took her life. The 63-year-old singer was traveling in a Sprinter van when the vehicle rolled over on March 1; he was driving southbound in Montgomery, Alabama, five miles from Interstate 65. Sadly, his van, along with a tractor-trailer, crashed, resulting in Stone's death. Paramedics arrived quickly, but the beloved singer was pronounced dead at the scene. Miraculously, the other passengers lived.
Stone played in Mobile, Alabama, hours earlier, only hours earlier, before the accident. She did what she loved in her last hours: She shared her voice with the world.
In a statement issued by her family in the wake of the memorial service, which they were still processing, her family referred to her as an inspiring force who would live on through her impact.
"Angie was a role model for Black women and girls everywhere," the statement said. "Diamond and Michael, and Angie's family, would like to thank everyone for reaching out but ask that you please respect their privacy as they mourn the loss of their beloved mother."
A private service with family and close friends has been planned for March 15 at First Nazareth Baptist Church in Columbia, South Carolina. Later that day, a second party honoring her extraordinary life was scheduled at the same site.
And while Angie Stone may no longer be with us, her sound and essence will forever be interlaced within the foundation of soul music. Her voice, words, and impact will resonate for generations to come.
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