On March 14, 2025, the music world gathered to say a final farewell to the legendary R&B singer Angie Stone. The funeral, held at Word of Faith Cathedral in Austell, Georgia, drew hundreds of family members, friends, fellow artists, and devoted fans. It was a touching celebration of Stone’s life, legacy, and the profound impact she left on the music industry.
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A Life Cut Short
Angie Stone tragically passed away on March 1, 2025, following a devastating car accident in Montgomery, Alabama. She was traveling with her band when their vehicle was struck by a semi-trailer truck, leading to her untimely death at the age of 63. While her band members survived with injuries, the loss of Stone left a deep void in the hearts of those who loved her and admired her work.
A Legacy of Soul and Resilience
Born Angela Laverne Brown on December 18, 1961, in Columbia, South Carolina, Stone’s journey in music began in the late 1970s with the pioneering female rap trio The Sequence. Their hit song “Funk You Up” laid the foundation for women in hip-hop. However, it was in R&B and neo-soul that Stone cemented her place as a legend, with critically acclaimed albums like Black Diamond (1999) and Mahogany Soul (2001).
Her rich, soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics resonated with millions, making her one of the most beloved voices in the genre. Stone’s influence extended beyond music—she was also an actress and advocate for artists’ rights, continuously pushing for fair representation in the industry.
A Star-Studded Memorial Service
Angie Stone’s funeral was a moving tribute, filled with music, love, and memories. The service opened with a stirring performance of His Eye Is on the Sparrow by gospel singer Keke Wyatt, bringing many attendees to tears.
Renowned figures in the entertainment industry, including Tyler Perry, Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, and Anthony Hamilton, were present to pay their respects. Perry delivered an emotional eulogy, emphasizing Stone’s perseverance in an industry that often overlooked her contributions. “She gave so much to the world through her music, yet she never received the recognition she truly deserved,” he said, his voice heavy with emotion.
Family’s Emotional Farewell
Stone’s children, Diamond and Michael, gave heartfelt tributes, reflecting on their mother’s love, wisdom, and strength. Her son, Michael Archer Jr., whom she shared with fellow R&B star D’Angelo, said, “My mother was more than just a singer—she was a guiding light. Her music was her gift to the world, but to me, she was simply Mom.”
Members of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., of which Stone was a proud member, also honored her with a special ceremony, celebrating her dedication to service and sisterhood.
Musical Tributes from Peers
The funeral was not just a time for mourning but also a celebration of the music Angie Stone left behind. Performances by Anthony Hamilton, Kirk Franklin, and Ledisi filled the cathedral with the same soul and passion that Stone embodied throughout her career.
Jill Scott performed a heartfelt rendition of No More Rain (In This Cloud), one of Stone’s biggest hits, while Ledisi sang Wish I Didn’t Miss You, leaving the audience in awe of the lasting impact of her music.
A City’s Tribute
The city of Stockbridge, Georgia, where Stone resided, issued an official proclamation honoring her contributions to music and the community. Meanwhile, a second memorial service is planned in her birthplace of Columbia, South Carolina, allowing her hometown to pay tribute to one of its most celebrated artists.
A Lasting Influence on Music
With a career spanning over four decades, Angie Stone helped shape the neo-soul movement and influenced countless artists. From her early days in The Sequence to her celebrated solo career, her voice and songwriting touched lives across generations.
Even beyond music, Stone explored acting, with roles in movies like The Fighting Temptations and on Broadway in Chicago. Her artistic versatility was a testament to her talent and dedication.
The Call for Greater Recognition
At her funeral, many spoke about the lack of industry recognition Stone received during her lifetime. Despite Grammy nominations and a dedicated fan base, mainstream awards often overlooked her contributions.
Following her passing, fans and fellow artists have called for a posthumous Grammy Award or a Lifetime Achievement Award to honor her groundbreaking career. Social media has been flooded with tributes, with messages such as, “Angie Stone was one of the greatest voices of our time. She deserves every bit of recognition now and forever.”
Preserving Her Legacy
Stone’s family has announced plans to launch The Angie Stone Foundation, dedicated to supporting aspiring musicians, particularly Black women in R&B and soul. The foundation will provide scholarships, mentorship programs, and industry resources to continue Stone’s mission of uplifting artists.
Additionally, a posthumous album featuring unreleased songs and collaborations is rumored to be in development, ensuring that her voice continues to inspire future generations.
Final Resting Place
Following the funeral service, Angie Stone was laid to rest in Columbia, South Carolina, during a private ceremony attended by close family and friends. As part of the farewell, doves were released into the sky, symbolizing her peaceful transition to eternity.
Fans gathered outside the cemetery, lighting candles and singing her songs as a final tribute to a woman whose music had been the soundtrack to their lives.
A Goodbye That Will Never Be Final
While the world has lost a legend, Angie Stone’s legacy will continue to thrive through her music, her influence, and the love she left behind. Her soulful melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and unwavering spirit will never be forgotten.
Rest in power, Angie Stone. Your voice will live on forever