(The Root) — Rapper Andre Benjamin, aka Andre 3000, of the group Outkast has suffered a devastating loss. His mother was found dead on Tuesday, Billboard has confirmed — one day after his birthday.
Benjamin's mother, Sharon Benjamin-Hodo, was the founder of the Starlight Camp in Georgia, a program for underprivileged children. The family has encouraged continued support for the foundation in lieu of flowers.
Black celebs sent messages of condolences to the Benjamin-Hodo family via Twitter upon hearing the news. Check out some of the tweets below.
Condolences To Andre 3000 Whose Mother, Sharon Benjamin Hodo, Has Passed bit.ly/13XXsVf via @revolttv.
— Jackée Harry (@JackeeHarry) May 29, 2013
Sending prayers up for my brother Andre 3000. Heard he lost his mother.
— Bun B (@BunBTrillOG) May 29, 2013
Pray for the good brother Andre 3000 and his family…
— 9th Wonder (@9thWonderMusic) May 29, 2013
Tracy Clayton is a writer, humorist and blogger from Louisville, Ky.