How did Jean Knight die?

Renowned soul singer Jean Knight, celebrated for her 1971 classic “Mr. Big Stuff,” passed away on November 22 at the age of 80 due to natural causes in her hometown of New Orleans, as reported by People on Monday.

In a statement released by Knight’s family, they expressed the collective mourning of New Orleans and the music world, referring to her as “one of its most treasured, musical daughters” and highlighting her integral role in the city’s musical legacy.

Notably, on the same day Knight recorded her iconic hit, singer King Floyd also created his 1970 Top 10 hit, “Groove Me,” reflecting the vibrant atmosphere in the studio, as noted by NOLA.com.

While “Mr. Big Stuff” remains her most famous song, Knight experienced a comeback in 1985 with a cover of the zydeco hit, “My Toot Toot.” However, her signature track continued to thrive, finding its way into TV shows, movies, and even serving as the jingle for Oreo Big Stuf cookies in the 1980s.

Beyond her musical achievements, one of Knight’s significant personal milestones in the 1980s was graduating from nursing school. NOLA.com highlighted that Knight worked as a nurse for many years alongside her singing career.

Jean Knight is survived by her son, Dr. Emile Commedore, residing in Tampa, Florida, as well as four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.