In a devastating blow to the world of music and motherhood, Alice Anne Ridley, the powerhouse mother of Oscar-nominated actress Gabourey Sidibe, has passed away at the age of 72. Known for her soul-stirring performances in New York City subway stations, Ridley’s voice resonated with raw emotion, captivating countless commuters and tourists alike. Her loss is not just a personal tragedy for Sidibe but a monumental loss for a community that admired her tenacity and spirit.

Ridley’s funeral, held in a quiet chapel in New York, transformed into a powerful tribute, drawing in friends, family, and fellow performers who celebrated not just her life but the legacy she leaves behind. Sidibe, dressed in royal blue—her mother’s favorite color—was not just a celebrated actress; she was a daughter mourning a woman who had poured her life into music and motherhood. The service featured moving tributes, including a surprise performance by Jennifer Hudson, who sang “His Eye is on the Sparrow,” echoing Ridley’s own performance on “America’s Got Talent.” Tears flowed as mourners remembered a woman who sang not for fame, but for survival and connection.

In the wake of her passing, the world has erupted in tributes, with fellow artists and fans sharing their grief and admiration for a voice that had been overlooked for far too long. Gabourey Sidibe, keeping her mother’s final months private, has now publicly vowed to ensure her mother’s legacy lives on through the launch of the Ridley Foundation for Underground Artists. This nonprofit will support overlooked musical talent, particularly older women and unrecognized vocalists.

Alice Anne Ridley may have left this world, but her voice—once echoing through subway tunnels—now resonates globally. This is not just a story of loss; it is the ignition of a movement that honors those voices that demand to be heard. As the world mourns, Alice Ridley’s legacy continues to inspire, reminding us that it’s never too late to be seen or heard.