Wendy Williams Loses Father At 94 As Personal And Legal Battles Mount

The death of Thomas D. Williams was announced by journalist Alex Finnie, niece of Wendy Williams. Finnie shared the news in an emotional Instagram tribute on Feb. 8, posting family photos honoring her grandfather.

In her message, she reflected on his 94 years of life, describing him as loving, wise, and deeply devoted to family. She said she believes he is reunited in heaven with his wife, Shirley.

Finnie praised her grandfather as an intellectual, author, and educator who valued history and community. She expressed profound grief, calling him a guiding presence in their lives.

According to People Magazine, Thomas’ wife, Shirley Williams, passed away in 2020 at 85. Wendy Williams previously shared that her mother died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.

Wendy, 61, was last seen publicly with her father in Miami in February 2025 during his 94th birthday celebration. At the time, she expressed uncertainty about whether her legal guardian would allow her to travel.

The former host of The Wendy Williams Show remains under court-ordered guardianship related to alleged cognitive concerns. She has consistently denied impairment and continues to challenge the arrangement.

Born in 1964 in New Jersey, Wendy Williams rose to fame in radio before launching her long-running daytime program in 2008. Despite recent health and legal struggles, she remains a prominent figure in modern talk television.