Photos: WBLS \Mtume Foundation
Ife Mtume, daughter of departed two-time Grammy winning legend, James Mtume, passed away on Wednesday, July 31st, 2024. She was 54.
As President and Board Chair of the Mtume Foundation, Ms. Mtume led the charge to preserve the legacy of her father James Mtume’s vast discography (which includes the classic hit, “Juicy Fruit”), activism, and political acumen in support and develop of artists and arts organizations.
According to the Mtume Foundation website, Ms. Mtume’s commitment to underserved communities was rooted in her prior leadership role with the New Jersey-based Maplewood and South Orange After-School Programs (subdivisions of the South Mountain YMCA). Her mission was to promote health and wellness, self-esteem, confidence, social skills, a safe environment for school aged children to learn and grow.
Family, friends and colleagues remember Ms. Mtume for her friendly cheerful outlook on life, while maintaining a firm, no-nonsense approach to business and work.
Ms. Mtume is survived by her daughters Sukari, Yamani and son Mazi; mother Kamili Mtume; sisters Benin, Eshe; brothers Richard, Faulu as well as many nieces and nephews.
Arrangements forthcoming.
