Billy Porter Announces Devastating Family Loss: 'We Are Heartbroken'
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NEW YORK, NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 15: Billy Porter during a rehearsal for the new Encores! City Center production of "Jelly's Last Jam" at City Center Rehearsal Studios on February 15, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Bruce Glikas/Getty Images)
Billy Porter and his sister, Mary, are mourning a devastating loss in their family.
The actor announced that the pair recently lost their mother, Cloerinda Jean Johnson Porter-Ford, in an Instagram post to honor her uploaded on Thursday, Feb. 29. She was 79.
"With heavy hearts we announce the passing of our loving mother," he wrote alongside several photos and videos featuring his late mom. "We were right beside her when she took her last breath, wrapped in our arms."
The Broadway legend shared that his mother "lived life to the fullest despite physical limitations pressed upon her," and described her "fight" as "long and hard," though he did not elaborate on any specific conditions.
"She was the personification of true Christianity and her unconditional love is a template that the world could benefit from employing," he continued, emphasizing that they "continue to strive" to follow her example.
"We are heartbroken she is no longer here with us, but find solace that her suffering has ended," he added. "Mommy will remain forever in our hearts as she continues to guide us from above, as she has done on this Earth."
The trio had just celebrated Cloerinda's birthday the month prior, sharing a sweet childhood photo of her with another snap of the brother-sister duo sandwiching kisses on their mom's cheeks.
"We are so grateful to have our beautiful mother with us for another turn around the sun," the caption read, encouraging followers to "hold your loved ones close."
"We love you, Mommy! 🎂🎉💐💗," they added.
