Television personality Wendy Williams is mourning the loss of her father, Thomas D. Williams, who has died at the age of 94. The news was shared publicly by his granddaughter, news anchor Alex Finnie, who is also Wendy’s niece and goddaughter.

Finnie announced his passing with an emotional tribute on social media, posting a montage of family photos and videos that highlighted Williams’ long life and close bond with his children and grandchildren. In her caption, she described him as a source of “extraordinary love, strength, brilliance, and wisdom” and said her heart was “extremely heavy” as she confirmed his death.

She remembered her grandfather as a man of intellect and purpose, noting that he was an author and educator with a deep appreciation for history. According to Finnie, Williams was known within the family as “Papa,” a patriarch who invested in both his relatives and his wider community. She wrote that he had “poured into both family and community” and that his influence would continue to guide them.

Finnie also reflected on the enduring love story between Thomas and his late wife, often referred to by the family as “Nana.” She said she took comfort in believing the couple had been reunited, adding that he was now “in heaven with Nana, watching over our family.”

In the comments beneath her post, friends, colleagues, and viewers offered condolences and shared memories of Williams. One follower described him as “a sweet and dapper man with a special sparkle in his eyes,” while another noted how deeply Wendy would feel the loss of her father, writing, “Wendy will miss her dad dearly. Rest in Peace Mr. Williams.”

Wendy Williams, who has faced significant health and personal challenges in recent years, has long spoken about the importance of her parents in interviews and on her former talk show. She was last publicly photographed with her father during a family celebration in Miami, where she marked his birthday with relatives.

As the Williams family grieves, tributes continue to highlight Thomas D. Williams not only as the father of a famous broadcaster, but as a devoted family man, educator, and community figure whose legacy extends far beyond the spotlight.