Faith Evans, Lil’ Kim, and Jay-Z’s mother Gloria Carter were among the loved ones and hip-hop figures who gathered to honor the late Voletta Wallace, mother of the legendary Notorious B.I.G., at her funeral service on Wednesday. Wallace, who dedicated her life to preserving her son’s legacy, passed away last month at the age of 78.

A Final Farewell

 

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Held at the Frank E. Campbell Funeral Chapel on New York City’s Upper East Side—the same location where Biggie’s service was held in 1997—the intimate ceremony saw family, close friends, and music industry icons come together to pay their respects.

Arriving early to the chapel, Biggie’s son Christopher Jordan “C.J.” Wallace was among the first to enter, followed by his mother, R&B singer Faith Evans, who wore a cream Gucci tuxedo blazer. Biggie’s daughter, T’yanna Dream Wallace, arrived shortly before the service began.

Guests included Lil’ Kim, Mase, and RCA Records president Mark Pitts, who played a pivotal role in Biggie’s career. Jay-Z’s mother, Gloria Carter, also attended, showing support for the Wallace family.

Sean “Diddy” Combs, who helped launch Biggie’s career, was notably absent due to his ongoing legal troubles. His son, Christian Combs, attended in his place, quietly paying his respects.

Voletta Wallace’s Lasting Impact

Born in Jamaica, Voletta Wallace moved to Brooklyn, where she raised her only son, Christopher Wallace. After his tragic and unsolved murder in 1997, she became the guardian of his legacy, ensuring that his music and memory endured. She managed the Christopher Wallace Memorial Foundation, helping to channel millions into community projects, scholarships, and artistic initiatives.

A public viewing was held the night before the funeral, giving fans a chance to pay tribute to the woman often referred to as “the mother of hip-hop.” One attendee, Brooklyn-born artist Young Jefe, wiped away tears as he left the chapel.

“She was like a mother figure,” he shared. “She did everything in her power to keep her son’s legacy alive.”

Another mourner, hip-hop artist D-Boogz—who identified himself as a cousin to Biggie’s daughter—reflected on Wallace’s lasting influence.

“She was always part of anything that had to do with Biggie,” he said. “That’s the OG’s mother. She had a big heart.”

As loved ones said their final goodbyes, Voletta Wallace’s impact on hip-hop and her unwavering devotion to her son’s legacy remained undeniable. Through her dedication, Biggie Smalls’ music and influence will continue to inspire generations to come.