🕊️💔 Wiz Khalifa Announces Passing of His Father: “He Went Out Like a True Yogi”

Hip-hop is sending love to Wiz Khalifa after he shared heartbreaking news about his father.

On Friday (February 13), Wiz took to social media to announce that his dad, Laurence W. Thomaz, has passed away. In an emotional message, the rapper reflected on his father’s impact on his life and career.

“Today my father decided not to wake up,” Wiz wrote. “I will always love him, miss him and be grateful for the things he taught me. He went out like a true yogi, at peace and on his own time. I love you forever Laurence W. Thomaz.”

Wiz has long spoken about the influence his father had on him. Laurence W. Thomaz served in the U.S. Air Force alongside Wiz’s mother, Peachie Wimbush. The couple divorced when Wiz was around two years old, and due to their military service, Wiz moved frequently during his childhood.

Eventually, he settled in Pittsburgh, where he began building the foundation for what would become a hugely successful rap career. From mixtapes to platinum records, Wiz has often credited discipline, perspective, and life lessons from his upbringing as part of what shaped him.

Fans and fellow artists quickly flooded social media with condolences, offering prayers and support during this difficult time.

Losing a parent is never easy — and for Wiz, this loss clearly hits deep. Still, his words suggest his father left this world peacefully, on his own terms.

Rest in peace, Laurence W. Thomaz. 🕊️