Howell Wayans, the Wayans family patriarch, has died at the age of 86. His son and comedian Marlon confirmed his death with a heartfelt post on social media on Saturday. Born in 1936, Howell worked as a supermarket manager.
He and his wife, Elvira Alethia, had 10 children together, all of whom are working in the entertainment industry. Continue reading to know more about Howell Wayans’ life.
Wayans Family Patriarch Howell Wayans Dies at 86
Marlon Wayans shared the news of Howell’s death on Instagram. He posted a sweet throwback photo with his father and wrote, “Legend. When i was a child I asked my Dad what did you want to be when grew up? He simply said ‘I wanted to be a man’ I said ‘not a lawyer? A doctor? An actor?’ He said ‘just a man.’”
“I said ‘but every boy becomes a man,’ Dad said ‘Not true,’ I asked ‘then what’s a man?’ My Dad said ‘A man takes care of himself and his responsibilities. His family is always FIRST,’ From that day on I wanted to be a MAN. Thank you Pop for being an example of a Man to all your boys. I pray all young black boys can grow up to be a Man like you.”
“Baby boy loves you. And if ever i need you i know exactly where to find you… in my Bible that now sits by bed. Rest well. Kiss Ma for me. Tell her her babies miss her. I got two angels. I feel y’all lifting me already. If there’s a heaven i know you sitting in VIP sippin’ the best wine jesus can mae,” he added.
Howell is Survived by his 10 Children
Howell and Elvira raised their 10 children in New York City. Apart from Marlon, the Wayans children include Dwayne, Diedra, Keenen Ivory, Damon, Kimberly, Elvira, Nadia, Devonne Chaunté and Shawn. Howell was preceded in death by his wife, who died in July 2020 at the age of 81.
Diedra also mourned her father’s death by writing, “My Heart is Heavy. I thank God for allowing Us to have so many years of love, memories and great parents. The kind that never gave up on their kids. I know I was a handful but through y’all tough love, discipline and devotion, I became a phenomenal woman just like you Momta.”
“Thank you for teaching me about the Lord. I know he will give us strength and courage during our time of mourning. Sine Momta left Dad, you kept saying you want to be with your girl. And so it ends with a beautiful love story. Back together again,” she added.
Marlon Wayans Received the News During his Live Show
The 50 year old comedian was in the middle of his gig in Burbank, California, when he received the news of his father’s death. He had two shows at the Flappers club and was notified of the tragedy after the first gig.
However, he decided to continue with the show and got extremely emotional while performing. At the end of the show, which also had a set about his deceased mother, he revealed that his father had passed away three hours ago and wept on stage. The audience gave him a standing ovation.
Our condolences to the Wayans family! Stay tuned for more news and updates.
