In Memoriam
Legendary actress and music icon, Della Reese, passes away at 86
Della Reese, the musical icon and legendary actress who starred in ‘Touched By An Angel’, passed away Sunday evening her family confirms. She was 86.

Della Reese, musical icon and legendary actress, has passed away.
She was 86.
Della Reese Death Details
Reese’s family confirmed the entertainer died Sunday evening her family.
Career
Born Delloreese Patricia Early on July 6, 1931 in Detroit’s Black Bottom neighborhood, Della Reese began singing at just 6 years old at her local church, establishing her roots in gospel music.
Her vocal talent would flourish and by 13, she was tapped to perform with Mahalia Jackson’s gospel group, with whom she’d later tour.
Singer
Reese would later go on to form her own group, the Meditation Singers, in the late 1940s. But being exposed to jazz artists like Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughan sparked a desire to broaden her musical horizons. Now using her famous stage name, she signed a deal with Jubilee Records in 1953, releasing six albums largely composed of jazz standards.
Della Reese as an actor
Though a singing prowess, acting would propel Reese into the big time.
After her first gig as the landlady in 1970s comedy “Chico and man”, lead her into roles that would show off her sass, including Vera, in Eddie Murphy‘s 1989 Harlem Nights.
She continued to star in various films and television, landing the role as Tess a “supervising angel” on Touched By An Angel which ran for 11 seasons.
Della Reese’s health
Reese battled health problems later in life, including diabetes which she blamed on poor diet and exercise. Following two appearances on the television show Signed, Sealed, Delivered in 2014, she retired from acting.
Follow Unheard Voices on Twitter
Discover more from Unheard Voices Magazine
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
-
In Memoriam4 days ago
Army Veteran William Govaniavic Venus dies delivering medicine amid Texas floods
-
Crime & Justice1 week ago
North Carolina detention officer’s slaying devastates community; GoFundMe launched
-
Police7 days ago
North Carolina woman sues police after wrongful arrest
-
News1 week ago
UPS Driver who saved woman’s life becomes lifelong supporter as she battles cancer
-
News2 days ago
Chicago Hero: Earl Abernathy rescues abducted infant amid gridlock traffic; GoFundMe launched
-
In Memoriam7 days ago
GoFundMe launched after Outlawz rapper Young Noble dies at 47
-
Crime & Justice2 weeks ago
16-year-old football star and honor student killed in tragic shooting
-
Social Justice2 days ago
Georgia librarian fired over trans-inclusive display sparks legal fight and community support