Queen Latifah Mourns Death Of Beloved Mother: She Was ‘The Love Of My Life’
March 22 2018, Updated 1:50 p.m. ET
Queen Latifah’s beloved mother has died after more than ten years of battling a debilitating heart condition.
“It is with a heavy heart that I share the news my mother, Rita Owens, passed away today,” the actress said in a statement to PEOPLE. “Anyone that has ever met her knows what a bright light she was on this earth. She was gentle, but strong, sweet, but sassy, worldly 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, 48, continued. “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.”