Lionel Braithwaite is Rihanna’s world-renowned singer grandfather. He is more than just a relative. He is a tough and caring man who has influenced Rihanna and her family. People know Rihanna as a singer and fashion icon. But few have an idea about the guy who influenced the values held dearly by her.
Quick Facts About Lionel Braithwaite
| Full Name | Lionel Braithwaite |
| Birthdate | N/A |
| Age | Approximately 90+ (celebrated 90th birthday in 2019) |
| Occupation | Former ship worker from Barbados |
| Husband/Wife | Clara “Dolly” Braithwaite |
| Education | N/A |
| Parents | Not Known |
| Grandchildren | Rihanna, Rorrey Fenty, Rajad Fenty |
| Children | Monica Braithwaite |
| Net Worth | <$1 million |
| Relationship to Rihanna | Maternal Grandfather |
| Nickname | “Captain of the ship” |
Captain of the Ship
Rihanna refers to her grandfather as the “Captain of the ship.” The name indicates just how dear he is to the family. He has been their guiding light. He is a person they all look up to. His love, advice, and support have kept the family together for many years.
A Sweet Love Story
Lionel first met Rihanna’s grandmother, Clara “Dolly” Braithwaite, over 60 years ago. How they met is pure movie magic. One day Dolly was selling mangoes. Lionel purchased her whole tray. He didn’t just want fruit; he wanted to spend time with her. This acts of kindness began an abiding and profound love.
A Life Full of Strength
Lionel was a sailor on a ship that sailed from Barbados. His work took him everywhere. One time, the ship left him stranded in Guyana. That altered things. Rihanna explained that if that never occurred, things could have been drastically different in her life. She feels it was one of the numerous blessings that resulted in her own existence.
A Beloved Grandfather
Rihanna has never failed to express love and respect towards Lionel. On his 88th birthday, she posted a heartfelt message referring to him as the heart of the family. According to her, his strength, sense of humor, and prayers were what had kept everyone together. In 2019, she traveled to Barbados to join him in celebrating his 90th birthday with close relatives. They organized a special dinner at a restaurant known as The Cliff. That was just how close they are.
Qualities That Make Him Unique
Lionel is special in many ways. He is kind and strong. He is also funny, wise, and a bit stubborn at times. These qualities make him stand out. His family loves him for being disciplined and having deep love. Rihanna refers to him as her “guardian angel” most of the time. That reflects how much he cares to her.
The Clara Lionel Foundation
Rihanna felt that she needed to pay tribute to her grandparents in some unique manner. Therefore, in 2012, she began the Clara Lionel Foundation. She has named it after her grandma Clara and grandpa Lionel. The foundation assists individuals across the globe. It provides health care, education, and emergency initiatives.
One huge component of the foundation is the Clara Braithwaite Center for Oncology and Nuclear Medicine. This center is at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Barbados. This assists individuals in receiving the cancer treatment they require. Rihanna established this to maintain her grandparents’ care and love going on.
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His Lasting Legacy
Lionel Braithwaite is not just Rihanna’s grandfather. He is a hero to her and a pillar of strength for the entire family. His life is an example of what love, determination, and being faithful to what is most important can do. He did not have to be a celebrity to leave his mark. It can be noticed in Rihanna’s principles, her behavior, and her heart.
In Summary
Lionel Braithwaite is not in the limelight, but he is largely responsible for making Rihanna what she is today. He guided her to care, be strong, and give back. His story goes on through her foundation and the love that she dispenses. He is indeed a remarkable piece of her journey—and a man who is worth meeting.
