Khadiyah “KD” Lewis, a former cast member of the VH1 reality series “Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta,” died on May 30 at age 44, according to her family members who confirmed the news publicly on June 5.
Lewis’ brother Jamaal, also known as Jay, confirmed her death to The Shade Room, stating that the family was experiencing an extremely emotionally devastating time. All prayers, condolences and well wishes were sincerely appreciated, he indicated.
Her younger brother, Elijah Inegbedion, shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, expressing that he had been at a loss for words for several days. He noted that Lewis “left behind a legacy most individuals can only dream of.” Inegbedion thanked his sister for loving him unconditionally and always supporting him, emphasizing that God blessed him by making him her baby brother.
The family has chosen not to disclose the cause of death. According to the Oklahoma Medical Examiner’s Office, Lewis was not a medical examiner case, and therefore no further information was available through that office.
Lewis gained national recognition through her appearances on “Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta,” joining the cast during Season 3 in 2014. She initially appeared on the show during her relationship with rapper Yung Joc, whom she reportedly met while working in real estate. Her relationship with the rapper became a major storyline focus as she transitioned to a supporting cast member role in Season 4.
The reality star’s romance with Yung Joc was marked by various complications, including alleged infidelity and issues involving the mothers of the rapper’s children. Their relationship reportedly ended before Season 5 of the series, with Lewis no longer appearing on subsequent seasons.
Born on March 31, 1981, Lewis was a graduate of North Springs High School in Atlanta and Florida A&M University. Beyond her reality television appearances, she established herself as a successful entrepreneur and businesswoman.
On her social media profiles, Lewis described herself as an entrepreneur, speaker, consultant, accountant, and brand ambassador. She owned multiple businesses, including a real estate investment firm, a consulting agency, and a financial services company. Her professional work extended to business and tax consulting services.
According to her obituary, Lewis served as a mentor to many individuals, offering guidance and support to those aspiring to succeed in the business world. Her legacy was described as one of inspiration, determination, and unwavering confidence.
Lewis is survived by her parents, Debra Body and David Clark Lewis Jr., her sisters Rasheedah Lewis and Nia T. Hill, and her brothers Jamaal Lewis and Ahmedu Elijah Inegbedion. She will be laid to rest in her birthplace of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
A funeral service was held on June 14 at Earl M. Temple Memorial Chapel in Oklahoma City. The family also organized a virtual memorial service via Zoom for those who wished to honor Lewis’ life from afar, providing an opportunity for the many people whose lives she touched to celebrate her memory.
The family issued a statement requesting privacy during this difficult time, emphasizing their decision not to discuss details surrounding Lewis’ death. They expressed appreciation for the outpouring of support from those who knew her.
“Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta” originally premiered in 2012 as a spinoff of VH1’s “Love & Hip Hop” series, documenting the lives of rappers and other music industry figures in Atlanta as they navigate their careers and personal relationships. The show is set to continue with Season 13, which will air on MTV beginning July 8.
The reality television community has expressed condolences following the news of Lewis’ passing, with many remembering her contributions to the show and her entrepreneurial achievements outside of television.