The news of Ronald Fenty, the father of renowned artist Rihanna, has emerged, revealing that he has sadly passed away at the age of 70. This tragic event marks a significant moment for the family and fans alike, as Ronald was a prominent figure in Rihanna’s life.

According to reports from Starcom Network News, a radio station located in Barbados, Ronald Fenty died following a brief illness. While the precise cause of death and the exact date remain undisclosed, sources indicate that he was surrounded by his loved ones during his final moments. This detail highlights the importance of family support during such difficult times.

Billboard has reached out to representatives of Rihanna for further comments regarding this unfortunate news. The family’s public response is awaited as fans and followers express their condolences and share memories of Ronald’s impact on their lives.

On May 28, a notable moment occurred when Rihanna‘s younger brother, Rajad Fenty, was spotted arriving at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. Reports from TMZ indicate that Rihanna was also present in the vehicle, although she was not visible in the photographs taken at that time. This sighting underscores the family’s unity during a challenging period.

The relationship between Rihanna and her father, Ronald Fenty, has been complex and has evolved over the years. Currently expecting her third child with A$AP Rocky, Rihanna has had a tumultuous relationship with her father, which included a period of estrangement before they managed to reconcile. This journey of reconciliation is significant, reflecting the challenges many families face.

After the highly publicized incident in 2009, when Rihanna was assaulted by her then-boyfriend Chris Brown, Ronald Fenty made statements regarding the situation without her consent. In a subsequent interview with Vogue in 2011, Rihanna expressed her deep disappointment in her father’s actions, emphasizing the emotional impact of such public disclosures on their relationship.

“You grow up with your father, you know him, you are a part of him, for goodness’ sakes!” she reflected during her interview. “And then he does something so bizarre that I can’t begin to wrap my mind around it.” Her words indicate the struggle of processing personal and public trauma intertwined with family dynamics.

In a later interview with Oprah in 2012, Rihanna revealed that she had worked on mending her relationship with her father, whom she described as having exhibited violent behavior during her upbringing. However, in 2019, she filed a lawsuit against him and his business partner, Moses Perkins, accusing them of attempting to exploit her name by launching a company called Fenty Entertainment. This claim alleged that they misled investors about her involvement in the enterprise, demonstrating the complexities of their relationship.

Ronald Fenty is survived by his three children: Rihanna, Rajad, and Rorrey, whom he shared with his ex-wife, Monica Braithwaite. The couple’s divorce took place in 2002. The family, rooted in Bridgetown, Barbados, experienced significant changes when Rihanna moved to the United States at the age of 16. Ronald is also the father of three additional children from previous relationships: daughters Samantha and Kandy, and son Jamie, according to reports from People.