Report: Ronald Fenty, father of Rihanna, dies at 70

Ronald Fenty, the father of Barbados’ National Hero, Robyn “Rihanna” Fenty, has died at the age of 70. According to a report from Starcom Network News, the patriarch passed away early Saturday morning in Los Angeles following a brief illness.

The Barbados-based radio station, citing sources close to the family, reported that relatives have gathered in California to mourn his passing. An official cause of death has not yet been disclosed.

Rihanna, who is currently expecting her third child with partner A$AP Rocky, has not issued a public statement regarding her father’s death. U.S. celebrity news outlet Page Six also reported the news, but said “Rihanna’s rep did not immediately respond to Page Six’s request for comment.”

Ronald Fenty, a Barbadian native, played a visible role in Rihanna’s early rise to stardom. He was born in Barbados and of Barbadian, African, Irish, English, and Scottish descent. He worked as a warehouse supervisor and played a significant role in the early life of his daughter, Robyn, known globally as Rihanna.

Ronald’s family includes his former wife, Monica Braithwaite, an Afro-Guyanese accountant, and their three children: Rihanna, Rorrey, and Rajad. Additionally, Ronald had three children from previous relationships: daughters Kandy and Samantha, and son Jamie.

Rihanna has often spoken about the complexities of her family life, including the impact of her father’s addiction on her childhood. Despite past difficulties, she has worked towards rebuilding her relationship with her father in recent years.

The Fenty family has remained close-knit, with siblings supporting each other’s endeavors. Rorrey and Rajad, in particular, have been involved in various aspects of Rihanna’s career and personal life, often appearing alongside her at events and on social media.

The local report has struck a chord in Rihanna’s homeland, where news of Fenty’s passing is being met with an outpouring of condolences.