Rapper Wiz Khalifa announced the death of his father, Laurence W. Thomaz, who was 63, in a heartfelt post on X on Friday, Feb. 13. The 38‑year‑ancient artist, whose real name is Cameron Jibril Thomaz, shared that his dad “decided not to wake up,” adding a tribute that highlighted the lessons he received from the late patriarch.
“Today my father decided not to wake up,” Khalifa wrote on X. “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.” Read the full post.
He continued, “My father’s passing was sudden but seeing how many people love and respected him makes happy and I know he’s proud that he left a positive impact on this earth. Literally all he ever wanted.” The rapper thanked followers for their outpouring of love and emphasized the lasting influence his father had on his life.
Khalifa also posted a series of throwback images on his Instagram Story. One showed a young Wiz being helped onto a swing by his dad, captioned “Love you substantial guy.” Another featured the late rapper with his father and his sister Dorien “Lala” Thomaz, who died in 2017; Khalifa wrote “My boy was smooth” alongside the photo and added, “You and La La are together again” with a praying‑hands emoji. These snapshots underscored the close family bond that shaped his upbringing.
According to the artist, his father was a former member of the military and a steady presence in his life. Khalifa has spoken publicly about the deep respect he holds for his dad, describing him as a guiding force who helped keep him grounded.
In a 2016 interview, Khalifa recalled that his father opened a recording studio in their hometown of Pittsburgh when he was a child, a space that “turned me into who I am today.” The studio gave the future star early exposure to music production and laid the groundwork for his eventual breakthrough.
Later, Khalifa shared that his last conversation with his dad centered on pride and encouragement. “He was telling me how proud of me he was for the movie I was in and I promised him I would do more,” he wrote in a follow‑up X post on Feb. 14.
Beyond music, Khalifa’s acting résumé includes a co‑starring role with Snoop Dogg in the 2012 stoner comedy Mac & Devin Go to High School, where he played Devin Overstreet. The film’s soundtrack featured “Young, Wild & Free,” which peaked at No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100.
In his final note, the rapper thanked fans for their condolences, writing, “It really means a lot in this tough time and is helping me sense better.” He encouraged followers to continue sharing memories of his father and to support one another during the grieving period.
Father’s legacy and impact on Khalifa’s career
Laurence Thomaz’s early investment in a home studio gave Khalifa a rare entry point into music creation. The environment fostered a work ethic that the rapper credits for his rise from local mixtapes to chart‑topping hits like “Black and Yellow.” The late father’s military background also instilled discipline, which Khalifa says helped him navigate the pressures of fame.
What fans can do now
Fans are encouraged to honor Thomaz’s memory by sharing positive stories and supporting charitable causes that align with his values. Khalifa has asked followers to keep the conversation respectful and to avoid speculation about the circumstances of his father’s passing.
Looking ahead
While no official statement beyond Khalifa’s posts has been released, the artist’s X account remains the primary source for updates. Followers can expect any further announcements about memorial arrangements or tributes to be posted there.
Readers are invited to share their thoughts in the comments and to spread Khalifa’s message of gratitude and remembrance.
