Della Reese Dead, Dies
Della Reese Dead At 86
Source: Axelle/Bauer-Griffin / Getty
Hollywood lost another legend. Musician and actress Della Reese peacefully passed away in her home Sunday evening. She was 86.
Sign Up For Our Newsletter!
“On behalf of her husband, Franklin Lett, and all her friends and family, I share with you the news that our beloved Della Reese has passed away peacefully at her California home last evening surrounded by love. She was an incredible wife, mother, grandmother, friend, and pastor, as well as an award-winning actress and singer. Through her life and work she touched and inspired the lives of millions of people,” her costar Roma Downey confirmed to PEOPLE in an exclusive statement.
Della Reese began her singing career when she was tapped, at 13 years old, to perform with Mahalia Jackson’s gospel group. She eventually went on to release six jazz albums and produce a top 20 hit. Reese played the beloved Tess on Touched By An Angel and appeared on other influential shows like The Mod Squad, The Love Boat, Sanford and Son, MacGyver, Night Court, and The Young and the Restless. She was the first Black woman to co-host The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson.
Source: John Springer Collection / Getty
Della famous scene in Harlem Nights remains a classic Black moment in film.
Della is survived by her three children and husband Franklin Lett.
The Latest:
- Cardi Says Mum’s The Word On Her And Stefon Diggs’ Baby Name, Shuts Down One Rumor Specifically
- Paul George Suspended 25 Games For Violating NBA’s Drug Policy & The Jokes Follow
- The Best In The World, CM Punk, Lands Cover of ‘WWE 2K26’ Standard Edtion
- Snoop Dogg’s Daughter Cori Broadus Shares The Loss Of Her Baby Girl
RELATED STORIES:
Rest In Power: ‘Cosby Show’ Actor Earle Hyman Dead At 91
26 Girls Migrating From Nigeria And Niger, Found Dead At Sea
Della Reese Dead At 86 was originally published on hellobeautiful.com
