Wendy Williams is mourning the loss of her father, Thomas Williams, who passed away at the age of 94. His death comes as the former Today Show host continues to battle her court-ordered guardianship.
The sad news was shared by Wendy’s niece, journalist Alex Finnie, on February 8 via an emotional Instagram tribute. The post included a series of family photos with Thomas, set to the song “As” by Stevie Wonder. 
Alex’s heartfelt message read: “It is with an extremely heavy heart that I share—after 94 years of extraordinary love, strength, brilliance, and wisdom, my grandfather Thomas D. Williams has passed. I know he is in heaven with Nana, watching over our family and continuing to guide us as he always has.”
Describing her grandfather as “a man of great intellect—an author, educator, and keeper of historical facts,” Alex said, “Papa poured into both family and community. I miss him tremendously.”
Thomas Williams’ wife, Shirley, passed away in 2020 at the age of 85, a loss that Wendy publicly shared on The Wendy Williams Show. Wendy described her mother’s passing as “beautiful” and “peaceful” as she was surrounded by “love.” 
Wendy, 61, was last seen with her father in February 2025, celebrating his 94th birthday in Miami. However, the former talk show host, who is currently under a guardianship due to claims of cognitive impairment, expressed uncertainty about being allowed to visit him during a January interview. “My dad is going to be 94 next month. I don’t know if I’m able to fly to Miami to say happy birthday to my dad,” she said at the time, revealing that her legal guardian, Sabrina Morrissey, might prevent her visit.
In the wake of her father’s passing, Wendy has been vocal about her ongoing battle to dissolve the guardianship, which she continues to deny is necessary. She has repeatedly denied claims of cognitive impairment and is actively fighting to regain her independence.
The guardianship was upheld as of August 2025 following a new medical evaluation of Wendy, as per documents obtained by PEOPLE.
