Mariah Carey Mourns the Loss of Her Mother and Sister on the Same Day

Grammy-winning singer Mariah Carey revealed in a heartfelt statement on Monday that she suffered the tragic loss of both her mother, Patricia Carey, and her sister, Alison Carey, on the same day over the past weekend.

"My heart is broken that I’ve lost my mother this past weekend. Sadly, in a tragic turn of events, my sister lost her life on the same day," Carey expressed. Despite the sorrow, she found solace in the time she spent with her mother during her final days. "I feel blessed that I was able to spend the last week with my mom before she passed," she added. The singer also requested privacy during this difficult time, while expressing gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from her fans.

Patricia Carey, a Juilliard-trained opera singer, was a significant influence on Mariah's musical journey. She was credited by the singer for nurturing her early love of music, as reflected in Mariah's 2020 memoir, The Meaning of Mariah Carey. "I would sing little tunes around the house, to my mother’s delight. And she always encouraged me," Mariah wrote. Patricia was previously married to Alfred Roy Carey, Mariah's father, before their divorce when Mariah was just three years old. Patricia passed away at the age of 85.

Alison Carey, 63, who had been estranged from Mariah for much of their lives, died from complications related to organ failure while in hospice care, according to the Times Union. Despite their strained relationship, Alison's death marks a significant loss for the singer, who has openly discussed the complexities of their relationship in her memoir. In the book, Mariah detailed the challenges she faced growing up, including her difficult relationships with both her mother and sister, describing them as fraught with "pain and confusion."

Mariah Carey’s statement was first reported by People Magazine, which also covered the initial news of Patricia and Alison’s passing. 

Patricia and Mariah shared a musical bond, notably recording a duet of "O Come All Ye Faithful/Hallelujah Chorus" for Mariah's second Christmas album in 2010, symbolizing the enduring connection between mother and daughter despite their ups and downs.

This heartbreaking turn of events leaves Mariah Carey navigating a profound double loss, as she reflects on the complicated but enduring love that tied her to both her mother and sister.