With sadness, I report that Etterlene DeBarge, the cherished matriarch of the DeBarge family, has transitioned to her heavenly home.
Bunny DeBarge shared the news of her mother’s passing via social media on Friday (Feb 16), writing, “My mom is gone!!! She’s in a better place!!” on Facebook.
Accompanying her heartfelt message was a touching video tribute to her beloved mother, with the caption, “Momma has gone to see her king. She’s in a better place!! Pray for my family.”
Etterlene Abney and Robert DeBarge Sr. crossed paths in Detroit, Michigan, during the early 1950s.
Their union in 1953 blossomed into a family of ten beautiful children: Bunny, Bobby, Tommy, Randy, Marty, El, James, Chico, Peaches, and Young DeBarge.
In addition to being the matriarch of the DeBarge family, Etterlene was also a gospel singer and a songwriter, who shared her gift of music with her children.
Bunny, Marty, Randy, El, and James signed with Motown as the DeBarges in 1979 and gave us timeless hits like “I Like It” and “All This Love.”
They would go on to have several more hit singles, such as “Time Will Reveal,” “Love Me in a Special Way” and “Rhythm of the Night.”
In January, Bunny DeBarge shared a video of her and Peaches during their visit to California to spend precious moments with their mother.
Bunny expressed gratitude for prayers and blessings, asking for continued support during this challenging time.
My deepest condolences and heartfelt prayers are extended to the entire DeBarge family. May Mama Etterlene DeBarge rest in eternal paradise.
