Who was Nipsey Hussle’s mom? All about Angelique Smith amid slain rapper’s death anniversary

As fans and loved ones commemorate the anniversary of Nipsey Hussle’s untimely death, many reflect on those who helped mold his life, including his mom, Angelique Smith. A wellspring of wisdom and strength, Smith was a guiding force in the life of the late rapper, who was shot fatally outside his Marathon Clothing store in Los Angeles on March 31, 2019.

A strong maternal influence

Hussle, whose birth name was Ermias Joseph Asghedom, was raised in the Crenshaw District of South Los Angeles by Angelique Smith, an African-American woman, and his father, Dawit Asghedom, an immigrant from Eritrea. Nipsey was raised by both his parents, but his mother, in particular, instilled in him intellectual curiosity and some discipline.

Smith assured her son was well-read, often urging him to read a lot. In interviews, Nipsey spoke about how, while growing up, his mom would be the first to encourage reading, leading him to form a mentality that appreciated reading, growth, business endeavors, and criminal reform.

Her tearful farewell at his funeral

Angelique Smith delivered a moving tribute at Nipsey Hussle’s public memorial service in April 2019 following the rapper’s tragic murder. In an emotional address at the Staples Center, she characterized her son as a “humble, spirited and respectful man” with an “extraordinary and unlimited intellectual capacity.”

She also offered comfort for the grieving, saying she believes death is not an end but a transition to another stage. Her message of resilience and peace clearly resonated with those in attendance as well as those watching around the world, and she encouraged Nipsey’s fans to celebrate his life and not dwell in sorrow.

Continuing Nipsey’s legacy

The years that followed Nipsey Hussle’s death have not been without struggle for Smith, but the content creator has remained an inspirational presence and continues to carry out her son’s values.

Jones has spoken extensively about health, wellness, and personal growth, encouraging a vegan lifestyle in place of her late partner’s self-described “plant-based” dishes to honor Nipsey’s stance on nutrition, health, and community empowerment.

In addition to her advocacy, she also carries on her son’s legacy of entrepreneurship and activism. The Nipsey Hussle Foundation was established to continue Nipsey's mission to help his community and empower the youth, using the money raised to put programs into place that will help at-risk youth.

A lasting impact

On Nipsey’s death anniversary, there’s Angelique — a living testament to the strength and wisdom that molded him into the icon that he’s become as the world reflects on Nipsey’s legacy. Her words, actions, and unwavering belief in her son’s purpose live on through the countless people inspired by Nipsey, who used his artistry and talent to be a leader and community architect.

Though the pain of Nipsey Hussle's loss is still fresh, his mother's strength amidst tragedy provides hope for the future, guaranteeing that her son’s legacy continues to live on through the lives he impacted and the changes he catalyzed.