The music world was rocked in March 2025 with the heartbreaking news that D’Wayne Wiggins, a founding member of the legendary R&B group Tony! Toni! Toné!, had passed away at the age of 64. Known for his soulful guitar riffs and timeless hits, Wiggins left behind a musical legacy that has shaped R&B for decades. But beyond the stage, he was a mentor, a father, and a man who fought a courageous battle with cancer in private.

So, who was D’Wayne Wiggins beyond the music? Let’s take a heartfelt look at his life, career, family, and the legacy he leaves behind.

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What Was the Cause of D’Wayne Wiggins’ Death?

D’Wayne Wiggins’ family shared the tragic news of his passing on March 7, 2025, via Tony! Toni! Toné!’s Instagram account. In their statement, they revealed that Wiggins had been privately battling bladder cancer. True to his character, he chose to keep his illness away from the public eye, remaining committed to his music, his family, and his fans until the very end.

“With broken hearts, we share with you that our beloved D’Wayne passed away this morning surrounded by family and loved ones,” the statement read. “Over the past year, he has been privately and courageously battling bladder cancer. Through this fight, he remained committed and present for his family, his music, his fans and his community.”

The family’s words were a powerful reminder of Wiggins’ unwavering dedication, even in the face of such a difficult battle.

Who Was D’Wayne Wiggins?

D’Wayne Wiggins wasn’t just a musician; he was a force in the R&B industry. Born and raised in Oakland, California, Wiggins’ passion for music was clear from a young age. As a guitarist, producer, and composer, he played an instrumental role in shaping the sound of Tony! Toni! Toné!—a group that gave us classics like “Anniversary,” “Feels Good,” and “It Never Rains (In Southern California).”

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The group’s unique blend of soul, funk, and R&B earned them a dedicated fanbase and a lasting impact on the music industry. Even after the group members pursued their own paths, Wiggins continued to influence the industry behind the scenes.

Was D’Wayne Wiggins Married?

Yes, D’Wayne Wiggins was married, but he kept his personal life notably private. He was previously married to his ex-wife, Michelle, for 12 years. However, in 2013, Michelle filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences. According to court documents obtained by TMZ, the split was amicable, though it did involve a custody battle for their two sons.

Despite the divorce, Wiggins remained a dedicated father. He shielded his sons from the public eye, ensuring they could live a life away from the limelight. His commitment to his family was evident, even as he continued to pour himself into his music and community work.

Did D’Wayne Wiggins Have Children?

Yes, D’Wayne Wiggins was a proud father of two sons. While he was careful to keep their identities private, it was clear that his children were a significant part of his life. He often spoke about the importance of family and made efforts to balance his career and fatherhood.

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Wiggins’ legacy isn’t just in his music but also in the values he instilled in his sons. As they mourn his loss, they carry forward his teachings and his passion for music.

How Much Was D’Wayne Wiggins Worth?

Over a career spanning several decades, D’Wayne Wiggins built a substantial net worth. According to Celebrity Net Worth, he was worth approximately $10 million at the time of his passing. His fortune was a result of not just his music career with Tony! Toni! Toné! but also his work as a producer and mentor to young artists.

Wiggins was known for his generosity, often investing back into his community in Oakland. His home studio, House of Music, was a hub for young talent, providing a space for aspiring artists to hone their craft. His impact on the industry extended far beyond the hits he helped create.

A Legacy of Mentorship and Community Service

D’Wayne Wiggins wasn’t just a musician; he was a mentor and a philanthropist. He was deeply passionate about artist development and was instrumental in launching the careers of several young musicians. From producing tracks for rising stars to offering mentorship, Wiggins was always looking for ways to give back.

His commitment to his hometown of Oakland was especially notable. Wiggins invested time and resources into community projects, using his influence to inspire and uplift the next generation of musicians.

The Impact of Tony! Toni! Toné!

Founded in 1988, Tony! Toni! Toné! wasn’t just a band—it was a movement. Alongside his brother Raphael Saadiq and cousin Timothy Christian Riley, D’Wayne Wiggins helped create a sound that blended classic soul with modern R&B. Their hits were the soundtrack of a generation and continue to influence artists today.

Wiggins’ guitar work and songwriting were at the heart of the band’s success. Tracks like “Lay Your Head on My Pillow” and “Whatever You Want” showcased his ability to craft songs that were both timeless and relatable.

A Final Farewell

D’Wayne Wiggins’ passing leaves a void in the world of R&B that won’t easily be filled. His family’s statement perfectly summed up his life: “He was a guitarist, producer, composer, philanthropist, mentor, and founding member of Tony! Toni! Toné! His music and service impacted millions around the world.”

As fans continue to mourn, they also celebrate the incredible body of work he leaves behind. His songs, his mentorship, and his love for his community are the legacies that will continue to inspire.

Rest in power, D’Wayne Wiggins. Your music will live on. 🎶💔