The family of “American Idol” Willie Spence mourns the late singer

Willie Spence’s desperate family said she will always miss her “gentle giant” but knows she is in heaven singing in the choir.

The family of runner-up in season 19 “American Idol” referred to his tragic death during a press conference at his grandmother’s house in Florida on Wednesday, telling attendees they are devastated at the loss.

“Willie was our gentle giant. He had such a gentle demeanor, but a very, very powerful voice, ”Spence’s cousin Sabrena Cooper said.

“When he opened his mouth and lifted the Lord up in song, many simply stopped to hear Him. Now Willie is in heaven singing the lead role in the celestial choir.

Spence died on Tuesday in a car accident while driving on a Tennessee freeway. He was only 23 years old.

The singer was on his way to meet an anti-trafficking organization, his family said.

A Tennessee Highway Patrol report later revealed that Spence had veered off the road at the exit ramp and collided with a tractor trailer parked on the side of the road.

While Spence, who was wearing a seat belt, did not survive the accident, the tractor trailer driver was not injured, the report said.

American Idol made a statement of mourning after news broke on Wednesday.

“We are devastated by the departure of our beloved member of the American Idol family, Willie Spence,” said the vocal contest. “He was a real talent that would light up every room he came into and he would miss him very much. We send our condolences to his relatives. “