News November 16, 2021
Keyshia Cole’s Adoptive Father Passes Away from COVID-19 Complications
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Keyshia Cole’s adoptive father Leon Cole Jr. has passed away from COVID-19 complications.
On Saturday, the singer’s adoptive mother Yvonne shared a statement from the family that said her husband had passed away after he was in the ICU for “several health challenges” related to the virus.
“With a heart of sadness and sincere condolences, we solicit your prayers for Dr. Yvonne Cole and the Cole family in the passing of Mr. Leon Cole, Jr.” the statement read.
“You are welcome to leave your prayers and any heart warming [sic] messages as they deal with the passing of Mr. Leon Cole Jr, due to COVID 19 complications. We appreciate the support for our family from around the world.”
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The “Love” singer also confirmed the news Sunday after a fan offered their condolences to her and her family.
Thank you🙏🏽 https://t.co/nvAfnewvgy
— Keyshia Cole (@KeyshiaCole) November 15, 2021 @KeyshiaCole
On Tuesday, Keyshia released a full statement on Leon’s passing, remembering him as “the only father I knew, he did such a great job here on earth!!!!!”
“He made sure (even tho he wasn’t my biological father) to keep a stable foundation and roof over all of our heads during our upbringing!!!!,” she wrote, adding, “My child hood was filled with 40L and 52L rides along side my father!!! I loved having a bus pass until I was 18 years old. He was a very wise man. Taught me and my siblings that knowledge is power!! He was very dedicated to learning and sharing his strong thoughts and opinions on the Bible and religion.”
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Leon’s passing comes months after Keyshia lost her biological mother Frankie in July.
In October, the Alameda County Coroner’s Office confirmed that Frankie passed away on her 61st birthday from an accidental overdose.
Keyshia has been open about Frankie’s addiction struggles, and in March of last year, she announced that Frankie was 60 days sober.
“Frank Da Bank 60 Days sober looking aaaah,” the musician wrote on IG Story at the time. “QUEENS SUPPORTING QUEENS.”
Per People, Leon and Yvonne gained custody of Keyshia when she was two years old after Frankie and Keyshia’s biological father, Virgil Hunter, gave her up for adoption.
Our condolences go out to Leon’s family and loved ones for their loss.
