Ludacris is publicly thanking fans who have expressed their concern
and support over his father’s passing.

According to the Associated Press, Ludacris’ father, Wayne Brian Bridges, 52,
died on Sunday (February 25) in an Atlanta hospital after a long illness. Luda’s
publicist, Barry Florence, said the family had chosen not to publicly announce
the cause of death and was planning a private funeral at a later date to be
held in Atlanta.

"We are overwhelmed by the generous outpouring of love, condolences and
support from family members, friends, fans and the many well-wishers,"
read a statement released Monday (February 27) by Ludacris’ family. "We
thank you for your prayers and hope you will understand our need for privacy
during this sorrowful time." The statement also credited Wayne Bridges
as being "a great influence on his son" saying that the elder bridges
had exposed his son to music as a young child.

Earlier this month, the rapper dedicated his Grammy Award for Best Rap Album
for Release Therapy to his father, who at the time was in the hospital in critical
condition. "Mr. Wayne Bridges, I love you to death," he said at the
Grammy ceremony as he accepted his award. Though the rapper says that he is
appreciative of the outpouring of support, he also is reportedly seeking privacy
while dealing with the loss.