Former Miss Universe Jamaica Finalist LaToya Malcolm Dies at 35 as Tributes Pour In

The Jamaican entertainment and pageant industry is mourning the loss of LaToya Malcolm, a former Miss Universe Jamaica finalist, who has died at the age of 35.

Miss Universe Jamaica confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement shared on Instagram on Saturday, paying tribute to Malcolm’s life and legacy.

“It is with profound sadness that we acknowledge the passing of LaToya Malcolm, a cherished participant in the 2024 Miss Universe Jamaica competition. Our heartfelt condolences are with her family, friends and loved ones. Rest peacefully, LaToya, you will never be forgotten.”

The organization did not reveal the cause of her death, and no further details have been released by her family.

LaToya Malcolm Remembered for Her Beauty, Talent and Passion

Malcolm gained national recognition after competing in the 2024 Miss Universe Jamaica pageant, where Rachel Silvera was eventually crowned the winner.

Although she did not win the national crown, Malcolm left a lasting impression throughout the competition. In the same year, she claimed the Miss Jamaica Bikini International 2024 title, further establishing herself as one of Jamaica’s rising beauty queens.

Beyond pageantry, Malcolm built a career in entertainment. She was recognized as an actress, entertainer, dance instructor and television host, with more than a decade of experience in the industry.

Her Instagram profile also highlighted her work as a TV personality and dance coach, showcasing her passion for inspiring others through performance and media.

Final Social Media Appearance

Malcolm’s final Instagram post was shared on July 3, where she appeared backstage during an appearance on TVJ Smile Jamaica.

The post has since become a place where friends, fans and followers have returned to leave messages of love and remembrance following news of her passing.

Miss Universe Jamaica Winner Gabrielle Henry Pays Emotional Tribute

Reigning Miss Universe Jamaica Gabrielle Henry was among those who honored Malcolm with a heartfelt tribute on social media.

Henry reflected on the importance of celebrating people who lived boldly and passionately, describing Malcolm’s passing as a significant loss to both her loved ones and the wider Jamaican community.

She also expressed condolences to Malcolm’s family, saying her impact and voice would continue to be remembered.

Family, Friends and Fans Share Heartbreaking Messages

As news of Malcolm’s death spread, social media was flooded with emotional tributes from relatives, close friends and colleagues who remembered her kindness, warmth and positive spirit.

One cousin shared an especially touching message, revealing they shared the exact same birthday and had already made plans to celebrate together next year.

Another friend described Malcolm as someone who was “calm and easy to work with,” while others remembered her as an exceptional choreographer, performer and friend whose presence lit up every room.

Several former coworkers also recalled her professionalism, generosity and infectious energy, saying her legacy would continue to inspire those who knew her personally and professionally.

Legacy Beyond the Pageant Stage

While many knew LaToya Malcolm through beauty pageants, those closest to her say her greatest impact came through her work in entertainment and dance.

Over more than ten years, she mentored aspiring performers, appeared on television and became a familiar face within Jamaica’s entertainment scene.

Her sudden passing has left a deep void among friends, fellow entertainers and members of the pageant community, who continue to celebrate a life defined by creativity, compassion and dedication.

At the time of publication, Malcolm’s family had not announced funeral arrangements, and the cause of death remains undisclosed.