Following the tragic death of former Supremes’ member, Mary Wilson, many are taking a moment to pay their respects to the legend.
Diana Ross, a co-founding member of The Supremes, was one of the first to acknowledge Wilsons’ death and also brought up that she would always “cherish the wonderful memories of our time together.”
Wilson, one of the original members of The Supremes, passed away suddenly on Feb. 8 at age 76 in her Las Vegas home. Ross, 76, co-founded the iconic singing group with Wilson and the late Florence Ballard.
“I just woke up to this news, my condolences to you Mary’s family,” Ross tweeted shortly after the announcement. “I am reminded that each day is a gift, I have so many wonderful memories of our time together ‘The Supremes’ will live on, in our hearts.”
While Wilson’s family has yet to reveal the circumstances of Mary’s death, her publicist confirmed that she was with her daughter, son, grandchildren, sister, and brother at the time of her passing. Due to COVID-19 precautions, the funeral services will be held privately for close family and friends.
Mary Wilson Was Working on New Material Before Death
Motown Records founder, Berry Gordy, said he was “extremely shocked and saddened” to hear about Mary’s death, according to Variety.
“I was always proud of Mary, he added. “She was quite a star in her own right and, over the years continued to work hard to boost the legacy of the Supremes. Mary Wilson was extremely special to me. She was a trailblazer, a diva, and will be deeply missed.”
Just two days before her death, Mary posted a video announcing she was collaborating with Universal Music on new solo material.
“Hopefully, some of that will be out on my birthday, Mar. 6,” Wilson said.
She also added that never-before-seen interviews about the Supremes’ experiences with segregation would be premiering for Black History Month.
The group soon became one of the most successful R&B acts and one of the world’s best selling groups.
Throughout their reign, the Supremes had 12 No. 1 hit singles on the “Billboard Hot 100,” including “Baby Love,” “Stop! In The Name Of Love,” “Back In My Arms Again,” “You Can’t Hurry Love,” and “You Keep Me Hangin’ On.”
In 1970, Ross left the group to pursue a solo career. Wilson remained until the group parted ways in 1977.
