Howell Wayan, the patriarch of the famous Wayan family, died at the age of 86 Saturday.
His death was confirmed by his youngest son, Marlon Wayan, in a touching tribute posted to Instagram. He shared an image of his father kissing him on the cheek while the pair each flashed a peace sign, and captioned the image with the word “legend.” The Wayan family is best known for appearing in the “Scary Movie” film series, “The Wayans Bros., “In Living Color”, “Don’t Be a Menace”, “White Chicks”, “My Wife and Kids,” and “Little Man.” Howell’s cause of death was not revealed.
Marlon’s message was deeply personal and highlighted a special moment between father and son.
“When I was a child I asked my Dad what did you want to be when grew up? He simply said “I wanted to be a man”
I said “not a lawyer? A doctor? An actor?” He said “just a man,’” Marlon wrote. He went on to describe the defining moment he shared with his father. “I said “but every boy becomes a man” Dad said “Not true”. My Dad said “A man takes care of himself and his responsibilities. His family is always FIRST”. From that day on I wanted to be a MAN,” Marlon wrote.
Marlon then wrote a message directly to his late father.
“Thank you Pop for being an example of a Man to all your boys. I pray all young black boys can grow up to be a Man like you,” he said. “Baby boy loves you. And if ever i need you i know exactly where to find you… in my Bible that now sits by bed.”
“Rest well. Kiss Ma for me. Tell her her babies miss her,” he said. “I got two angels. I feel y’all lifting me already. If there’s a heaven i know you sitting in VIP sippin’ the best wine jesus can make…”
Marlon is one of 10 children Howell shared with his wife Elvira Alethia. The other children were Keenen Ivory, Damon, Shawn, Dwayne, Kim, Nadia, Elvira, Diedra, and Vonnie. (RELATED: REPORT: Legendary Record Executive Seymour Stein Dead At 80)
Howell is survived by his ten children, sixteen grandchildren, three great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild, according to People.