Two years after Christina Grimmie was murdered by a fan, her mother, Tina Grimmie has lost her battle with breast cancer.
“We are saddened to announce the loss of our beloved Tina, also affectionately known as ‘Mama Grimmie’ to the millions of fans of Christina Grimmie around the world. She will be missed immensely,” the Grimmie family said in a statement via social media on Sunday.
“Tina fought a courageous and brave battle with cancer for many years, even until her final hours with family by her side,” the statement continued.
“While this is a bittersweet moment for us as a family, particularly after losing Christina two years ago, we rejoice at the thought that Tina and Christina are united once again in the presence of our Lord and Savior.”
In June 2016, Christina was shot by Kevin James Loibl after performing as the opening act for Before You Exit at The Plaza Live in Orlando.
The singer was signing autographs for fans when the gunman opened fire.
Christina was hospitalized following the shooting but died from the gunshot wounds. Her killer turned the gun on himself shortly after Christina’s brother Marcus tackled him.
Loibl died at the scene as a result of his injuries.
“Tina Grimmie was a powerful and shining example of motherhood, being an amazing wife while giving love and encouragement to others. Her laugh, energy, passion and joyful spirit will eternally be a part of all of us,” the statement added.
“Tina was truly a one of a kind soul and our hearts are heavy. We respectfully ask for some private time to process her passing. In lieu of flowers, we invite you to make donations to the Christina Grimmie Foundation in Tina’s honor,” the statement continued.
Prior to her passing, Christina had been open about her mother’s health woes, admitting that she had survived breast cancer four times.
“My mom has had breast cancer four times, now. And she just got put back on chemo again,” she told AXS in October 2014.
Christina shot to fame in 2009 when she began uploading videos of her singing to her Youtube channel. The account racked up over 375 million views by 2013, further solidifying the fact that she was a talented young woman.
She went on to appear on NBC’s The Voice in 2014, and immediately struck a chord with viewers thanks to her vocal range and bubbly personality.
She ultimately finished in third place, behind winner Josh Kaufman and runner-up Jake Worthington.
Since Christina’s death, her family has kept in touch with fans by releasing previously recorded music, and by launching a foundation in the star’s name.
The foundation was started with the aim of supporting families who lost a loved one to gun violence and families with relatives diagnosed with breast cancer.
We extend our thoughts and prayers to the Grimmie family at this difficult time.
