LaToya Malcolm’s light will continue to shine—not only through the memories of those who loved her, but in the dreams of young Jamaicans who display the same courage and resilience that marked her life.
Loved ones gathered at the Central Assembly of God on Lincoln Road on Saturday to celebrate the life of the former beauty queen and actress, who died last month at age 35.
The service was filled with tender reflections on Malcolm’s character, accomplishments and enduring impact.
One of the most moving tributes came in a written message from her mother, who remembered Malcolm as a precious daughter raised with love, faith and a firm understanding of her worth.
“From the moment you came into my life, you were precious to me,” the tribute read. “I wanted nothing more than to raise you with love, dignity, pride, respect and strong values.
“I wanted you to know who you were, whose you were and the worth God placed inside you. And you became exactly that—a beautiful woman.”
Her mother said that although Malcolm grew up in different spaces and encountered a variety of environments, she never allowed her circumstances to determine her identity.
“I will always be proud that you never allowed your surroundings to define you,” she said.
Malcolm’s brother, Giovanni, also shared a heartfelt reflection as the family remembered a woman whose beauty extended far beyond the pageant stage.
During the service, Minister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce Delano Seiveright announced the establishment of the LaToya Malcolm Scholarship for Resilience.
Under the initiative, two qualifying students will each receive $100,000, ensuring that Malcolm’s name becomes permanently associated with perseverance, education and opportunity.
Malcolm competed in the 2024 Miss Universe Jamaica pageant and later captured the 2024 Miss Jamaica Bikini International title. She also pursued acting, carving out a place for herself in Jamaica’s creative and entertainment circles.
Her death was announced by the Miss Universe Jamaica organisation on July 18. A cause of death has not been disclosed.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Miss Universe Jamaica alumna LaToya Malcolm, who proudly competed in the 2024 Miss Universe Jamaica competition,” the organisation said at the time.
“Our heartfelt condolences are with her family, friends and loved ones. Rest peacefully, LaToya. You will never be forgotten.”
Current Miss Universe Jamaica titleholder Gabrielle Henry also paid tribute to Malcolm, describing her death as a profound loss to her family, community and country.
“After many years of experiencing loss and hardship, I’ve learnt the deep relevance of pausing and reflecting on the lives of those who lived fully, unapologetically and with great passion,” Henry wrote on Instagram.
“To hear of LaToya’s passing is a great loss to her family and the wider community. Jamaica, her impact will always be remembered and her voice will not be forgotten.”
Henry extended condolences to Malcolm’s family, adding: “May she rest in peace.”
As mourners said their final farewells on Saturday, the prevailing message was clear: LaToya Malcolm’s journey may have ended far too soon, but her voice, values and fighting spirit will live on through those she inspired—and the students who will now rise in her name.
Although the public cause of death had not been disclosed, Dancehall Mag understands that she died of a major stroke that first paralyzed one side of her body before she died suddenly a few days later.
