The Ryan Gordy Foundation celebrated “60 Years of Motown” on Nov. 11, at the Waldorf Astoria in Beverly Hills. The celebration honored Motown music legends, Berry Gordy and Smokey Robinson.
Comic great, Chris Tucker, emceed the evening, along with co-hosts, Sheree Zampino, Frances Robinson (also the event chairperson) and Ira Dewitt. Performances by soul pioneers Thelma Houston and Mary Wilson rounded out the night’s entertainment.
Other special guests included: Sean “Diddy” Combs, Sugar Ray Leonard, Eric Benet, David Foster, Katherine McPhee, Kris Jenner, Corey Gamble, Debbie Allen, Johnny Gill, Nelly, Omarion, Bill Bellamy and Brooke Burke.
Berry Gordy received the Power of Love Award, presented by Paris and Prince Jackson (Michael Jackson’s children), and Lionel Richie presented Smokey Robinson with the Legendary R&B Pioneer and Humanitarian Award, in loving memory of Ryan Gordy, Berry’s grandson, who passed away from leukemia in 2016 at 29-years-old.
After his passing, Ryan’s mother, Anita Thompson, vowed to bring health and wellness to every young adult in America diagnosed with cancer. She launched the Ryan Gordy Foundation to provide cancer patients with support, including healthy meals, yoga, meditation, nutrition and guidance. Her intention is to help those battling cancer live the best version of their life, while going through the biggest fight of their life.
“My life’s purpose is bringing health and wellness to young adults affected by cancer,” said Thompson. “My son was loving and caring with a beautiful soul. His legacy will live on through the good works of the Ryan Gordy Foundation.”
