The Wayans Brothers Honor Late Patriarch Howell Wayans After Death At 86

The Wayans family, one of the prominent families in Hollywood, are deep in the throes of mourning after their patriarch Howell Wayans died.

On March 3, the Wayans family was hit with the tragic loss of the patriarch, who passed away at 86 and had a long-standing career in showbiz. The unfortunate news was shared on social media by his children, who paid tribute to their father in heartfelt messages.

Marlon Wayans, one of Howell's ten notable children, took to Instagram to share the monumental loss with his fans, using two posts to bid farewell to the father-of-ten. 

In one post, he shared a loving picture of him embracing his father, who planted a kiss on his head while they gave peace signs to the camera. In the first part of the accompanying caption, the "Sextuplets" star reflects on how his father inspired him to become a man, noting that his father would always respond with "just a man" whenever he quizzed him about what he wanted to be.

In addition, he noted, "My Dad said, 'A man takes care of himself and his responsibilities. His family is always FIRST.' From that day on, I wanted to be a MAN."

He thanked his father for being an example for his sons, writing, "I pray all young black boys can grow up to be a Man like you." Finally, he concluded his caption with a shout to his late mother and a toast to his father, saying that he knew where to find his father if he ever needed him – in his Bible that now sits by his bed.

"If there's a heaven, I know you are sitting in VIP sippin' the best wine Jesus can make…" he concluded his tribute. The doting son sent out another tribute post that showed his daddy sitting while a tall glass of wine was in front of him. The upload was captioned, "My man 50 grand. Every time I sip good wine, I'll think of you."

Marlon's tribute was followed by his sister Deidra Wayans who began her emotional message, writing, "My Heart is Heavy," before noting how grateful she was to have "so many years of love and memories" with great parents and wonderful siblings. 

She recognized how difficult she was to handle but thanked her parents' tough love, discipline, and devotion for making her a phenomenal woman like her mother. Also, Deidre's son Craig Wayans was not left out as he paid tribute to his grandfather, saying that he had a firm seat next to Jehovah and that God had gained another strong soldier.

TMZ first broke the news of Howell Wayans' passing, revealing that Marlon learned of his father's passing during a gig in Burbank, CA. Reportedly, he was scheduled for two different standup comedy shows at a club called Flappers and was done with his first set when he was notified. 

However, the "Little Man" actor decided to go on with his second show, where he incorporated the tragic event into his comedy material. The star comedian shared his father's death with his audience at the end, and he was met with a standing ovation and some teary eyes.

Howell, who built the foundation for his sons' successes, was also a father figure to many other African American actors in the industry. Actor Omar Epps was one of such who felt the impact of the late patriarch, and his pain was heavily reflected in his tribute.

Epps, who is known for his role in "Love & Basketball," "House," amongst others, shared a sweet photo of the late industry giant alongside touching words that began, "Words can't even describe how I'm feeling right now. This man was a GIANT amongst giants. Pop Wayans was a true father to me throughout my life."

He continued, "Always teaching me, giving me jewels I walk with to this day. I love you, Pop! Thank you for taking me under your wing as if I was one of your own. We're all devastated, yet somehow, you prepared us for this moment." Epps concluded, declaring his love for the late icon.

"I LOVE YOU!! #RIPPOPWAYANS Prayers up for the entire Wayans family!!???? I love you all immeasurably!"

His ten children and several grandchildren survived Howell. His wife, Elvira, passed away in July 2020 at 81.