Sat Mar 15 10:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Hip-Hop Mourns as Voletta Wallace, Mother of Notorious B.I.G., Laid to Rest

**New York, NY** – A star-studded funeral service was held Wednesday for Voletta Wallace, the mother of the late rap icon Notorious B.I.G., at the Frank E. Campbell Funeral Chapel in New York City. Wallace, who passed away at age 78 on February 21st of natural causes, was remembered by family, friends, and prominent figures in the hip-hop community as a pillar of strength and a key figure in preserving her son’s legacy.

The service, held at the same location as Biggie Smalls’ funeral in 1997, saw attendance from Faith Evans, Lil Kim, Mase, and members of Biggie’s family, including his children C.J. Wallace and T’yanna Wallace. Other notable attendees included Jay-Z’s mother, Gloria Carter, and RCA Records president Mark Pitts. Even in the absence of Sean “Diddy” Combs, currently facing legal proceedings, his son Christian paid his respects.

Voletta Wallace, a preschool teacher, became a tireless advocate for her son’s memory following his tragic murder. She played a crucial role in managing the Christopher Wallace Memorial Foundation, which has grown to an estimated $160 million, supporting local communities through art and education initiatives.

Many attendees described Voletta as a mother figure to the hip-hop community, praising her unwavering dedication to preserving Biggie’s legacy. Several mourners shared emotional tributes, highlighting her warmth and the significant impact she had on their lives. One attendee called her the “mother of hip-hop,” emphasizing the profound connection between Voletta and the culture she helped shape. The family previously released a statement acknowledging the importance of this public memorial to pay tribute to the matriarch who preserved her son’s legacy. A public viewing was held the evening prior to the funeral service.

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