Voletta Wallace Dies at 78: The Legacy of The Notorious B.I.G.’s Devoted Mother

Voletta Wallace, the devoted mother of Christopher Wallace—widely known as The Notorious B.I.G.—passed away on February 21, 2025, at the age of 78. As a single mother, she played a crucial role in shaping the future rap icon, later dedicating herself to preserving his name, music, and influence in hip-hop. From managing Biggie’s estate to advocating for justice, Voletta Wallace’s remained focus for the industry and community.

Raised in Jamaica, she immigrated to the United States in search of better opportunities. Settling in Brooklyn, New York, she worked as a schoolteacher, emphasizing discipline and education in her household. Despite financial struggles, she created a stable environment for her son, ensuring he had access to a strong moral foundation. Enrolling Christopher in Catholic school, she encouraged his academic pursuits, hoping he would follow a conventional career path. However, as his passion for music grew, she supported his ambitions, unaware that he would become one of hip-hop’s most influential artists.

On March 9, 1997, tragedy struck when The Notorious B.I.G. was fatally shot in Los Angeles at just 24 years old. His murder remains an unsolved mystery, leaving the hip-hop community in mourning. Devastated but determined, Voletta Wallace became an advocate for justice, continuously pushing for answers in her son’s case. Instead of letting grief define her, she channeled her energy into safeguarding his legacy, ensuring that his contributions to music would never fade.

Taking charge of his estate, she managed his assets, licensing deals, and music rights, growing his legacy into an estimated $160 million empire. Under her guidance, The Notorious B.I.G.’s name remained synonymous with hip-hop excellence, his influence stretching across generations. In 2009, she played an integral role in producing *Notorious*, a biographical film depicting her son’s rise to fame. Angela Bassett portrayed her on screen, further solidifying her pivotal role in his life and story.

Beyond business, she established the Christopher Wallace Memorial Foundation, dedicated to supporting underprivileged youth through education and empowerment. Her commitment to community development reflected the same values she instilled in her son, ensuring that his name represented more than just music—it symbolized opportunity, resilience, and growth.

In 2020, she proudly accepted The Notorious B.I.G.’s posthumous induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, a moment that cemented his place in music history. Her heartfelt speech resonated with fans worldwide, reinforcing the lasting impact of his artistry.