Former Miss Universe Jamaica Finalist LaToya Malcolm Dies at 35: The Life, Career, and Legacy She Leaves Behind
The pageant world is mourning the loss of LaToya Malcolm, a former Miss Universe Jamaica finalist who has died at the age of 35. The Miss Universe Jamaica organization confirmed the news on July 18. No cause of death has been shared.
LaToya was known for much more than beauty pageants. She was also an actress, TV presenter, dance instructor, and community volunteer. Here is a look at her life, her achievements, and the impact she made on many people.
A sad loss for the Miss Universe Jamaica family
The Miss Universe Jamaica organization announced LaToya Malcolm’s death in a heartfelt message on Instagram.
The organization said it was deeply saddened by the loss of one of its former contestants. It also shared its thoughts and prayers with her family, friends, and loved ones. The message ended by saying that LaToya would never be forgotten.
Many people who knew her, along with pageant fans, shared kind words online after hearing the news.
She competed in the 2024 Miss Universe Jamaica pageant
LaToya Malcolm took part in the 2024 Miss Universe Jamaica competition, where she became one of the standout contestants.
Her appearance in the pageant helped introduce her to a larger audience across Jamaica. She proudly represented herself throughout the competition and remained connected with the pageant community afterward.
Her time in the contest became an important part of her public journey.
She also won a national pageant title
Along with competing in Miss Universe Jamaica, LaToya earned another major achievement in 2024.
She was crowned Miss Jamaica Bikini International 2024, adding another title to her growing list of accomplishments.
After winning, she thanked her family and friends on Instagram for their love and support. She said their encouragement meant a great deal to her.
She honored her late father after her win
One of LaToya’s most touching moments came after winning the Miss Jamaica Bikini International title.
She dedicated the victory to her father, who had passed away earlier that year. In an emotional Instagram message, she said the win was for him and shared that she hoped he was smiling down on her.
Her words showed how important her family was to her and how much she wanted to make her father proud.
She built a career beyond beauty pageants
Pageants were only one part of LaToya Malcolm’s life.
She also worked as an actress, television presenter, and dance instructor. She enjoyed performing and sharing her talents with others.
Her different roles helped her connect with many people and showed that she had interests far beyond the stage.
She recently appeared on national television
Just weeks before her death, LaToya appeared on the Jamaican morning program Smile Jamaica.
During the show, she shared her love of dance and performed some of her moves for viewers.
After the appearance, she posted on Instagram, thanking the program for inviting her. She said she enjoyed starting the day with smiles and dancing.
She loved travel and learning new things
Outside of work, LaToya enjoyed spending time doing the things she loved.
According to her Miss Universe Jamaica introduction, she liked traveling, reading, and visiting new places. These hobbies gave her the chance to learn more about the world and enjoy new experiences.
She often shared happy moments from her life with her followers on social media.
Helping young people mattered to her
LaToya was also active in community service.
She volunteered her time to help young people with career development and job resources. She wanted to support others as they planned for their future.
Her volunteer work reflected her wish to make a positive difference beyond the entertainment world.
Fans and friends shared heartfelt tributes
After the news of her passing, many people posted messages of sympathy online.
Fans remembered her warm personality, while friends spoke about the kindness and energy she brought into every room.
The many tributes showed how deeply she had touched the lives of people around her.
Miss Universe Jamaica winner Gabrielle Henry paid tribute
Current Miss Universe Jamaica Gabrielle Henry was among those who honored LaToya after her passing.
In an Instagram Story, Henry reflected on the importance of remembering people who lived with passion and purpose. She said LaToya’s death was a great loss for both her family and the wider Jamaican community.
Henry also said LaToya’s impact would continue to be remembered and that her voice would not be forgotten.
Although LaToya Malcolm’s life ended at just 35 years old, many people remember her for the joy, talent, and kindness she shared.
She built a career in pageants, television, acting, and dance while also giving back through volunteer work. Her dedication to her family, especially the tribute she paid to her late father, also touched many hearts.
As friends, fans, and fellow pageant contestants continue to remember her, LaToya Malcolm’s legacy lives on through the lives she inspired and the memories she created.
Featured Image: instagram.com/latoya_officially
