DIGICEL is mourning the passing of the voice behind some of Jamaica’s most talented singers to have made it to the Digicel Rising Stars stage, Ifidel Williams.

For 17 years, Williams, a beloved and talented singer, was part of the annual talent competition. His warm, friendly, and supportive personality touched the hearts and minds of viewers here and abroad.

According to Tari Lovell, chief marketing officer at Digicel, “Ifidel was truly an inspiration to us all. The Digicel family mourns the loss of a dear friend who significantly impacted the Digicel Rising Stars competition. Ifidel’s presence and contributions were invaluable and irreplaceable, and he will be dearly missed by all of us.”

Lovell added that for Digicel, Williams’s legacy will continue to live on through the countless lives he impacted through his dedication to humanity. He will forever be remembered as a cherished member of the Digicel Rising Stars family.

Williams began his journey on the Digicel Rising Stars show as a supporting vocalist, and his role evolved over the years.

Sharon Schroeter, producer of Digicel Rising Stars, remembers Williams as more than just a backup singer.

She recalls him being an active member of the team, taking the initiative to support contestants in many ways, including as a performance coach and preliminary judge during auditions.

“He never came and did nothing. If they sang a wrong note or moved the wrong way, he would guide them. Ifidel was integral to the production over the years,” said Schroeter.

“When the news of his passing broke, contestants as far back as 2006 reached out to extend their condolence, which is a testament to the lives he touched. He was welcomed by everyone he came across, including all the judges throughout the seasons,” added Schroeter.

Schroeter fondly describes Williams as Digicel Rising Stars’s “biggest cheerleader” and added, “Ifi was truly the light of the show, and he will be missed”.