Howell Wayans, the patriarch of the famous Wayans family, dead at 86

Howell Wayans, the patriarch of the well-known Wayans family, passed away on Saturday at the age of 86, according to his youngest son Marlon.

Upon hearing the news, Marlon Wayans posted a heartfelt homage to his father on Instagram, referring to him as a "legend" who also raised Keenen Ivory, Damon, Shawn, Dwayne, Kim, Nadia, Elvira, Diedra, and Vonnie with wife Elvira Alethia.

In the photograph, he posted to remember his father, Marlon, and Howell make peace signs for the camera as the father kisses his son on the forehead.

"When I was a child I asked my Dad what did you want to be when grew up? He simply said 'I wanted to be a man," ' Marlon, 50, wrote. "I said 'not a lawyer? A doctor? An actor?' He said 'just a man.' "

He continued, "I said 'but every boy becomes a man.' Dad said 'Not true.' I asked 'then what's a man?' My Dad said 'A man takes care of himself and his responsibilities. His family is always FIRST.' From that day on I wanted to be a MAN."

"Thank you Pop for being an example of a Man to all your boys. I pray all young Black boys can grow up to be a Man like you. Baby boy loves you. And if ever I need you I know exactly where to find you… in my Bible that now sits by [my] bed," he said.

An Instagram post from a family friend and actor named Omar Epps honored Howell.

"Words can't even describe how I'm feeling right now. This man was a GIANT amongst giants," Epps, 49, wrote.

"Pop Wayans was a true father to me thru out my life. Always teaching me, giving me jewels that I walk with to this day. I love you Pop! Thank you for taking me under your wing as if I was one of your own," he shared.

Diedra Lenora Wayans, Howell's eldest child, expressed her respects by remarking on a photo of the patriarch and his deceased wife Elvira on Instagram, "I thank God for allowing us to have so many years of love, memories and great parents. The kind that never gave up on their kids."

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