Mariah Carey Pays Tribute to Natalie Cole, Who Died at Age 65, With Touching Photo

The daughter of Nat King Cole passed away on New Year's Eve

By Corinne Heller Jan 02, 2016 7:41 PMTags
Natalie Cole, Mariah CareyInstagram

Mariah Carey says she is "beyond devastated" to hear about the passing of fellow R&B soul artist Natalie Cole.

Natalie, daughter of the late jazz legend Nat King Cole, died at age 65 on New Year's Eve after battling health complications. She was known for hits such as "This Will Be," "I've Got Love on My Mind," and a virtual duet of her father's signature song "Unforgettable."

"Beyond devastated to hear about the passing of the beautiful and talented Natalie Cole," Carey, 45, said on Instagram, alongside a touching photo of the two.

Cole is seen cradling Carey's face with both hands as the two smile contently while attending a gathering. It is unclear when or where the photo was taken.

"My deepest condolences to her family and all who were blessed to know her," Carey wrote. "She will be terribly missed." 

"Natalie fought a fierce, courageous battle, dying how she lived..with dignity, strength and honor," her son, Robert Yancy, and identical twin sisters, Timolin Cole and Casey Cole, said in a statement obtained by E! News. "Our beloved Mother and sister will be greatly missed and remain UNFORGETTABLE in our hearts forever."

Three's Company and Step By Step alum Suzanne Somers, 69, also shared a moving photo tribute to Natalie.

"I just received the tragic news that my sweet friend Natalie Cole has passed away," she wrote on her Instagram page. "Although I know she's been struggling with her health for many years, I really felt she was going to make it. The last time I saw her was a few months ago when I had the absolute thrill and pleasure to sing with her at a private party. We sang 'Our Love is Here to Stay' and after we hugged each other and vowed to do it again."

"I will miss her," she added. "Rest in peace dear Natalie. Your voice was pure perfection; the silkiest most beautiful female voice ever. We were blessed with her awesome talent and her presence. God bless Natalie Cole."