Alabama reality show star dead at 42 was ‘full of life, love and laughter’

Ne’Keshia “Keke” Dawson Jabbar, one of the stars of the reality show “Love & Marriage: Huntsville,” died Tuesday, according to a statement from her family.

TMZ reported Jabbar was 42.

A cause of death was not immediately known.

The statement was read on the YouTube channel of vlogger Marcella Speaks.

“It is with extreme sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Keke. She passed away peacefully at home surrounded by love,” the statement read.

“She was a mom, a sister, a great friend full of life, love and laughter. She will sorely be missed. At this time, we are asking for respect and privacy in our moment of grief while we process this great loss,” the statement continued. It was signed “the Jabbar/Scott Family.”

Jabbar was featured in the most recent seasons of the Oprah Winfrey Network show, which premiered in January 2019 and showcases the lives of prominent Black families in Huntsville.

Jabbar was the cousin of LaTisha Scott, who is featured prominently in the series along with her husband, Marsau Scott.

“At this time we are asking for RESPECT, and PRIVACY in our moment of grief, while we process this great loss!This is hard for our Family!!!!!” LaTisha Scott posted Tuesday to her Instagram account:

According to her social media profiles, Jabbar was also a writer, editor, author and professor of English at Alabama A&M University in Huntsville.

Charlotte Teague, chairwoman of the university’s English Department, said Jabbar was an instructor in the department several years ago and had not worked for the department in more than five years.

“I am sad to hear of her passing,” Teague said.