Tameka “Tiny” Harris is currently in mourning after the unexpected loss of one of her closest bodyguards, “Big Rio.”
Tiny announced Big Rio’s shocking death on her Instagram on Sunday (Dec. 3). We lost one of my favorite security guards last night,” she wrote. Her heartfelt message made it clear that she considered Rio as family.
“He was definitely more like family to me! Used to look forward to going home to talk to @jusbigrio The house want be the same without him!! We will truly miss Big Rio!! #AnotherAngelToWatchOverOurFamily”
It’s unclear if Big Rio was a bodyguard for the Xscape tour or a personal bodyguard for Tiny and her family. However, a source tells HollywoodLife that Tiny is devastated by Rio’s passing and is leaning on estranged husband T.I. for comfort.
“Tiny has been shattered by the loss of her bodyguard and she has been leaning on T.I. for strength during the sad time. Tiny has been trying to carry on with work and her tour but has been struggling with grief at the same time. She has been crying on T.I.’s shoulder and is grateful for his love during tough times like these.
“Thanks to T.I.’s love, support and daily communication, Tiny has been able to persevere. She gains strength from his love and has been able to continue with her tour despite being rocked by the loss of her dear friend and protector.”
A cause of death has yet to revealed to the public and little is known about Big Rio. His Instagram account is set to private, but his bio read: “Just a hard working fat muthaf***a from da A. Get it, Got it, Good.”
Our thoughts are with Tiny and her family during this difficult time.
