R&B Singer Vesta Williams Dies at Age 53

Essence is saddened to learn that R&B singer Vesta Williams was found dead last night in her hotel room in Los Angeles. She was 53.

At this time, the cause of death is unknown.

The singer was responsible for hits like “Congratulations,” and “Sweet, Sweet Love.”

Most recently it was Vesta’s dramatic weight loss that made headlines after she dropped over 100 pounds, from a size 26 to 6. Lately she had become an advocate for the prevention of childhood obesity.

Fellow fans and friends, including Deborah Cox and Sherri Shepherd have taken to Twitter to express their condolences. Actress Jackee Harry called it “devastating news.”

The story is developing…