Remembering Alice Tan Ridley: Gabourey Sidibe’s mother and beloved AGT star passes away at 72
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It’s never easy to say goodbye to someone who brought so much joy and inspiration to the world.
When we hear about someone who not only shared her gifts with millions but also lived her life with such grace and passion, it touches something deep in all of us.
Today, we remember the extraordinary life of Alice Tan Ridley—a mother, performer, teacher, and soul whose voice could stop you in your tracks and whose story continues to uplift hearts.
Born on December 21, 1952, in Georgia, Alice Tan Ridley was the seventh child in a family of eight.
She passed away on March 25, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire.
Her journey from the warm, close-knit communities of the South to the lively streets of New York City was shaped by a deep love of music and an unshakable spirit.
For over 30 years, Ridley made a name for herself not on grand stages, but in the bustling subway stations of New York.
Her soulful performances—especially at Herald Square—became daily moments of magic for commuters.
More than just entertainment, her voice offered comfort, hope, and a powerful connection through song.
Also read: Timeless talent lost—Music icon of “The Standells” dies at 82
A shining moment on "America’s Got Talent"
In 2010, the rest of the country finally caught a glimpse of what subway riders had known all along: Alice had something special.
Her unforgettable rendition of "At Last" on America’s Got Talent moved the judges and the audience alike.
Piers Morgan called her "just brilliant," and Howie Mandel described her performances as "heartwarming and moving."
Her time on the show wasn’t just a performance—it was a moment of recognition, a celebration of years spent sharing her gift on her own terms.
Also read: Grammy legend passes at 86: Uncover the surprising legacy of The Love Boat singer!
Beyond the music: A life of service and creativity
Alice Tan Ridley was more than a voice.
She held a teaching license from the New York State Board of Education and taught at PS 134, touching the lives of many students with the same dedication she brought to her music.
She also appeared on Showtime at the Apollo in 2005 and was featured in David LaChapelle’s award-winning documentary Rize.
In 2007, she earned an Emmy for her work in the documentary Military Families, and in 2016, she released her debut studio album Never Lost My Way—a fitting title for someone who stayed true to herself through every chapter of life.
Also read: “There is no other”–Folk legend dies at 83
Since 2010, Ridley was managed by Israeli student Dvir Assouline, who admired her ability to uplift people simply by being herself.
He once shared how she brought happiness to people every day—whether on the subway or on stage—and that joy lives on in the memories of those she touched.
She is survived by her brothers James D. "Jimmy" Ridley and Tommy Lee "Tom-Tom" Cherry, her sisters Julia Van Mater-Miller and Mildred Ridley Dent, her twin grandchildren Cooper and Maya, and many beloved relatives who carry her legacy forward.
Read next: Loss in the Parton family pulls on heartstrings–Dolly Parton’s brother David now in peace
At The GrayVine, we take time to honor those who’ve left a meaningful mark on the world. Alice Tan Ridley’s story is a powerful reminder of how far passion, perseverance, and love can take us.
If you ever saw her perform, whether on TV or in the subway, or if her story resonates with you in some way, we invite you to share your thoughts and memories in the comments.
When we hear about someone who not only shared her gifts with millions but also lived her life with such grace and passion, it touches something deep in all of us.
Today, we remember the extraordinary life of Alice Tan Ridley—a mother, performer, teacher, and soul whose voice could stop you in your tracks and whose story continues to uplift hearts.
Born on December 21, 1952, in Georgia, Alice Tan Ridley was the seventh child in a family of eight.
She passed away on March 25, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire.
Her journey from the warm, close-knit communities of the South to the lively streets of New York City was shaped by a deep love of music and an unshakable spirit.
Remembering the incredible Alice Tan Ridley, whose soulful voice touched countless lives—whether on the streets of New York or the stage of America’s Got Talent. Image Source: YouTube / The Express Tribune.
For over 30 years, Ridley made a name for herself not on grand stages, but in the bustling subway stations of New York.
Her soulful performances—especially at Herald Square—became daily moments of magic for commuters.
More than just entertainment, her voice offered comfort, hope, and a powerful connection through song.
Also read: Timeless talent lost—Music icon of “The Standells” dies at 82
A shining moment on "America’s Got Talent"
In 2010, the rest of the country finally caught a glimpse of what subway riders had known all along: Alice had something special.
Her unforgettable rendition of "At Last" on America’s Got Talent moved the judges and the audience alike.
Piers Morgan called her "just brilliant," and Howie Mandel described her performances as "heartwarming and moving."
Her time on the show wasn’t just a performance—it was a moment of recognition, a celebration of years spent sharing her gift on her own terms.
Also read: Grammy legend passes at 86: Uncover the surprising legacy of The Love Boat singer!
Beyond the music: A life of service and creativity
Alice Tan Ridley was more than a voice.
She held a teaching license from the New York State Board of Education and taught at PS 134, touching the lives of many students with the same dedication she brought to her music.
She also appeared on Showtime at the Apollo in 2005 and was featured in David LaChapelle’s award-winning documentary Rize.
In 2007, she earned an Emmy for her work in the documentary Military Families, and in 2016, she released her debut studio album Never Lost My Way—a fitting title for someone who stayed true to herself through every chapter of life.
Also read: “There is no other”–Folk legend dies at 83
Since 2010, Ridley was managed by Israeli student Dvir Assouline, who admired her ability to uplift people simply by being herself.
He once shared how she brought happiness to people every day—whether on the subway or on stage—and that joy lives on in the memories of those she touched.
She is survived by her brothers James D. "Jimmy" Ridley and Tommy Lee "Tom-Tom" Cherry, her sisters Julia Van Mater-Miller and Mildred Ridley Dent, her twin grandchildren Cooper and Maya, and many beloved relatives who carry her legacy forward.
Read next: Loss in the Parton family pulls on heartstrings–Dolly Parton’s brother David now in peace
At The GrayVine, we take time to honor those who’ve left a meaningful mark on the world. Alice Tan Ridley’s story is a powerful reminder of how far passion, perseverance, and love can take us.
If you ever saw her perform, whether on TV or in the subway, or if her story resonates with you in some way, we invite you to share your thoughts and memories in the comments.
