STOCKBRIDGE, Ga. - The city of Stockbridge is mourning the loss of acclaimed neo-soul and R&B singer Angie Stone, who tragically died at the age of 63 following a car crash on Saturday, March 1, 2025. Rode home from her performance at the CIAA tournament, Stone was involved in an accident on an Alabama highway, resulting from her Sprinter van overturning before being hit by an 18-wheeler.
According to reports by FOX 5 Atlanta, Stone was traveling with her band and backup dancers when the accident occurred around 4 AM. She was the only casualty of the crash, leaving behind two children, Diamond and Michael. Stone’s daughter, Ladi Diamond, confirmed the heartbreaking news on Facebook, writing, "My mommy is gone," alongside several crying emojis.
Born Angela Laverne Brown on December 18, 1961, in Columbia, South Carolina, Stone rose to prominence as one of the earliest female acts in hip-hop as part of the group The Sequence. Their 1979 hit "Funk You Up" helped to pave the way for female artists in the rap industry. Transitioning to R&B, Stone released numerous acclaimed albums, including her breakout 1999 project "Black Diamond" featuring the memorable track "No More Rain (in This Cloud)".
Her other well-known track, "Wish I Didn’t Miss You," released on her 2001 album "Mahogany Soul," solidified her status as a solo artist. Throughout her lengthy career, Stone released ten solo albums and received three Grammy nominations for her contributions to music, which included collaborations with renowned artists such as D’Angelo and Alicia Keys.
The Stockbridge City Council paid tribute to Stone at their meeting on Monday night, March 3, 2025. Councilmember Anthony Ford read a proclamation recognizing Stone's immense talents and contributions to the music world, stating, "We are all shocked and saddened by the loss of Angie Stone, but, with deep gratitude, we have wonderful memories as she leaves us with a legacy of great music," acknowledging how deeply she impacted her community during her life.
Angie Stone's contributions extended beyond music; she also explored acting and reality television, showcasing her versatility. She appeared on shows such as VH1's "Celebrity Fit Club" and "R&B Divas: Atlanta," and made her Broadway debut in 2003 playing Matron Mama Morton in the musical "Chicago." Stone was also inducted last year, 2024, as a significant figure in music, joining the Women Songwriters Hall of Fame for her achievements.
Following her passing, plans for Stone’s memorial services have been put in motion. Reports indicate the family is organizing a public memorial to honor her life and legacy, which will occur in Atlanta, alongside private funeral services planned for her burial later on.
The venues and dates for both ceremonies have yet to be announced, but her community is grieving the loss of someone who became synonymous with soulful music and artistic expression. Stone’s legacy as not only an artist but also as a mother and friend will continue to resonate as those who loved her gather to celebrate her life.
Angie Stone's tragic departure has shocked fans and the music community both locally and nationally. She is remembered not just for her contributions to the musical world but also for the warmth and tenderness she shared with family and friends. Her legacy will undoubtedly remain alive through her music, which has touched countless lives.
Stone's impact on R&B and hip-hop continues to inspire newcomers to the genres. The celebration of her life will bring together her fans, friends, and family, as they share their memories and reflect on the vast career she cultivated over the decades. Her songs will keep her memory alive, prompting future generations to appreciate the soulful artistry she embodied.
The tragic event serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing those who have made significant impacts on our lives.