The Miss Universe Jamaica community is grieving yet another painful loss. On July 18, the organization revealed that former contestant LaToya Malcolm had passed away at the age of 35.
In a statement posted on Instagram, the organization paid tribute to Malcolm, who participated in the 2024 Miss Universe Jamaica competition, writing, “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Miss Universe Jamaica alumna LaToya Malcolm, who proudly competed in the 2024 Miss Universe Jamaica Competition.”
According to People, the statement went on to say, “Our heartfelt condolences are with her family, friends, and loved ones. Rest peacefully, LaToya. You will never be forgotten.”
Malcolm’s career extended far beyond the world of pageantry. The Miss Universe Jamaica organization described her as a Jamaican actor and entertainer who had spent more than a decade building her presence in the industry.
She was also a dance instructor and contributed her time to the Transition Project, an initiative focused on providing adolescents with training, mentorship, and resources to help them prepare for future opportunities.
Her pageant career reached a significant highlight in 2024 when she won the Miss Jamaica Bikini International title. The achievement came during a challenging chapter of her life after the passing of her father.
Looking back on the achievement, Malcolm shared an emotional tribute, writing, “My beloved father, Mr. Malcolm, this win was for you. Your one and only daughter continues to make you proud. I know you’re smiling down on me from heaven.”
Current Miss Universe Jamaica titleholder Gabrielle Henry also honored Malcolm through her Instagram Stories. “To hear of LaToya’s passing is a great loss to her family and the wider community in Jamaica,” Henry wrote. “Her impact will always be remembered, and her voice will not be forgotten. Wishing her family my deepest condolences. May she rest in peace.”
Malcolm’s passing comes less than a year after another heartbreaking loss within the Miss Universe Jamaica community. In September 2025, former contestant Tyra Spaulding died at 26 after openly discussing her struggles with suicidal thoughts in a series of emotional YouTube videos.
After Spaulding’s death, the organization remembered her as “a radiant soul and an amazing human being” whose “light, grace, beauty and kind spirit touched every life she encountered.”
A cause of death for LaToya Malcolm has not been publicly revealed at this time.
