Don Lemon thanked Twitter users for their sympathy over the death of his older sister, L’Tanya “Leisa” Lemon Grimes. (Daniel Zuchnik/WireImage/@donlemon/Twitter)
Don Lemon and his family are mourning the loss of the CNN anchor’s oldest sister. L’Tanya “Leisa” Lemon Grimes, 58, died in Livingston Parish, La., Wednesday, Jan. 31 after an accidental drowning. The Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office confirmed the news to Nola.com Thursday, Feb. 1.
“Thanks everyone for your words of sympathy,” Lemon tweeted Thursday. “Please keep my family in your prayers. Leisa was my oldest sister and partner in crime growing up. Always had my back. #RIPBigSis.”
No foul play is suspected in Grimes’ death, which came after Grimes apparently tripped and fell into a neighborhood pond while fishing.
The family said in a statement that it “has suffered the tragic loss of L’Tanya ‘Leisa’ Lemon Grimes and we are leaning on each other for strength at this time.”
Condolences have been pouring in for the “CNN Tonight” anchor following the news.
“Tara and my prayers are with @donlemon & family after the tragic, and far too soon loss of his sister Leisa,” former talk show host Montel Williams tweeted.
Radio host Rickey Smiley offered “sincere condolences to Don and his family.”
“Prayers and sympathies,” White House correspondent April Ryan tweeted.
“While I do not agree with your politics, I am very saddened to hear of your loss,” a viewer tweeted. “I have sisters too, and I know I would be devastated if I lost them. She’s now in God’s loving arms. Heartfelt blessings to your entire family Mr. Lemon.”
Another person said they were “very, very sorry for your loss, Mr. Lemon. May your sister Rest in Paradise.”
