Rihanna’s cousin dies aged 28: Tanella Alleyne dies suddenly – six years after her brother Tavon was shot
Rihanna’s cousin Tanella Alleyne died suddenly at the age of 28, just six years after her brother Tavon was fatally shot on Christmas Day.
The superstar’s beloved relative, who had more than 55,000 Instagram followers, tragically lost her twin sister when they were just 14 years old.
On Monday, Alleyne’s loved ones packed St. George Parish Church to mourn her death.
Accordingly Loop Barbados NewsDuring the home service, Rihanna’s powerful ballad “Lift Me Up” was played.
During the eulogy, Tanella’s adoptive mother, Julie-Ann Bryan, remembered Tanella as a woman who “lived a life of gratitude with an incredible attitude and full of confidence.”
“Nella had something special about her,” she told her loved ones. “She was bold and bold. Our love for each other was kindled.’
Gone Way Too Soon: Rihanna’s cousin Tanella Alleyne died suddenly at the age of 28, just six years after her brother was fatally shot on Christmas Day
Rihanna had previously announced the death of her cousin Tavon with a post shared on her Instagram account in 2017.
At the time, the singer wrote a message to share her feelings about the tragic shooting with the public.
She wrote: “RIP Cousin…I can’t believe I held you in my arms just last night!” I never thought this would be the last time I felt the warmth in your body!!! I love you always man! #endgunviolence.’
Tavon was murdered by an as yet unidentified gunman while out walking in Lake Close, Eden Lodge, St Michael, the day after Christmas.
The actor’s cousin was only 21 at the time and passed away after being taken to hospital.
Tavon had spent Christmas with Rihanna and her family in the hours leading up to his death.
It was not known if the singer’s relative was targeted or if the shooting was entirely accidental.
Barbadian Police later launched an investigation into the murder, but it is unknown if the findings were ever released to the public or to Alleyne’s family.
