Rihanna's father Ronald Fenty dies at 70.
Image: Instagram
Barbados, along with the Fenty family, is mourning the loss of Ronald Fenty, the father of global superstar Rihanna, who passed away in Los Angeles (LA) on May 31, at the age of 70, following a brief illness.
According to “Starcom Network News”, a radio station based in Rihanna’s native Barbados, Ronald was surrounded by his loved ones when he died.
In addition, Rihanna’s brother Rajad Fenty was seen arriving at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in LA, with Rihanna reportedly in the vehicle.
Ronald leaves behind three children with ex-wife Monica Braithwaite, Rihanna, born Robyn Rihanna Fenty, as well as sons Rorrey Fenty and Rajad Fenty.
He also had three children from previous relationships: daughters Samantha Fenty and Kandy Fenty, and son Jamie Fenty.
Born in 1954 in Barbados, Ronald worked as a warehouse supervisor and businessman, providing for his family with dedication and hard work.
He was married to accountant Monica Braithwaite, Rihanna’s mother, for over 15 years before they divorced in 2002 due to financial difficulties and personal issues.
Additionally, the Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley, extended her condolences to the “We Found Love” singer and paid tribute to her father after his passing, citing his impact and role in Rihanna’s life.
“It is with deep sorrow that, on behalf of the Government and people of Barbados, I extend my sincere condolences to our beloved National Hero, The Right Excellent Robyn Rihanna Fenty, on the passing of her father, Ronald Fenty.
“Ronald Fenty was a son of Barbadian soil, whose life story reflected the resilience and spirit of our nation.
"While he may be known for playing a significant role in shaping the woman our National Hero Rihanna has become, the truth is that his journey here on earth has touched many more lives,” said Mottley.
She described Ronald as a multifaceted individual. A father, friend, neighbour, and proud Barbadian whose life journey was marked by both struggles and love, shaped by his community and heritage.
“To Rihanna, her mother Monica, her brothers Rorrey, Rajad and Jamie, sisters Kandy and Samantha, and all members of the Fenty family, I offer my deepest sympathies.
"I equally extend my condolences to Ronald’s friends and loved ones, both here in Barbados and abroad,” she added.
Ronald’s relationship with Rihanna was complex, marked by periods of reconciliation and conflict. However, his influence on her life and career has been instrumental.
In 2019, she filed a lawsuit against him and his business partner, Moses Perkins. Rihanna’s lawsuit against her father and his business partner stemmed from their launch of “Fenty Entertainment” without her consent.
The Barbadian singer claimed they used her name to mislead investors and the public into believing she was involved with the company, which damaged her reputation.
The lawsuit, filed in 2019, alleged false advertising, invasion of privacy and unauthorised use of her name.
Rihanna Robyn Fenty with her father Ronald Fenty.
Image: Instagram
Rihanna initially sought $75 million (over R1.3 billion) in damages but dropped the lawsuit shortly before it was set to go to trial in 2021, according to the BBC.
Even through their conflicts, he was still a devoted father; he supported Rihanna’s early beginnings in music and encouraged her to pursue her dreams. His love and guidance helped shape the strong, confident woman Rihanna has become.
While his passing leaves a void in the lives of those who loved him, his legacy lives on through his daughter, Rihanna, the singer and entrepreneur who is currently expecting her third child with rapper A$AP Rocky.
According to reports, A$AP Rocky rushed out to be with Rihanna after the tragic news.