For 17 years, Ifidel Williams was one of the supporting vocalists on the television reality talent series Digicel Rising Stars.

Reports are that Williams died on Sunday August 4.

The cause of his death was not immediately available; however, it is understood that Williams had been ailing for some time.

Digicel Rising Stars series producer Sharon Schroeter remembered Williams as a “bright light”.

“Ifidel… had a genuine love for the show. He supported the contestants in every solitary way, and also helped with their vocals. He was more than a supporting vocalist, and he was a huge part of the show’s development. He was a bright light and he was always smiling,” Schroeter told the Jamaica Observer on Monday.

A former student of Jamaica College, Williams also studied at Edna Manley College for the Visual and Performing Arts and has worked on various USAID projects and with government agencies.

He also served as Ashe performing arts company’s integrated marketing and communications lead.

The company posted a statement on its official Instagram page.

“The family of Ashe wishes to announce the passing of our Ashe alumni Ifidel Williams. Please join us in prayers for his immediate and extended family during this time,” the statement read.