He was a beloved son,father and friend he will truly be missed
In Memory of Brian Keith krebscov
This obituary is managed by Tina Douglas
Share a Condolence
Related Obituaries
Wilhelmenia Fernandez
Jan 04, 1949 - Jan 04, 1949
LEXINGTON, KY
Renowned soprano Wilhelmenia Wiggins Fernandez Smith, acclaimed for her iconic performance in the 1981 French film "Diva," passed away at the age of 75 on February 2, 2024, at her home in Lexington, Kentucky, succumbing to cancer. Born on January 5, 1949, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Wilhelmenia's extraordinary voice and talent graced opera houses across the U.S. and Europe. Graduating from the Academy of Vocal Arts in Philadelphia and furthering her education at the Juilliard School in New York, Wilhelmenia's operatic career reached new heights when she starred in "Diva," wearing a white gown and captivating audiences with her rendition of the aria "Ebben? Ne andrò lontana" from "La Wally." Beyond her illustrious career, Wilhelmenia was known for her humility and dedication. After her husband, Andrew Smith, directed the voice program at Kentucky State University, she became a cherished special education teacher at an elementary school in Lexington. Her impact extended to Main Street Baptist Church, where she contributed to the children's music program. A private funeral service was held on Friday in Lexington, commemorating the life of a gifted soprano whose quiet grace left an indelible mark on the world of opera and the hearts of those she touched. Wilhelmenia's legacy will endure through the timeless beauty of her voice and the memories she created both on and off the stage.
