Vernon Winfrey, Oprah's father, has died at the age of 89.

BY A STAFF REPORTER: Oprah Winfrey acknowledged her father's death in quite an Instagram message, including a video showing Vernon Winfrey hosting his own backyard BBQ on Independence Day. Wintley Phipps, a gospel singer, honoured Vernon and his family and friends by performing a song for him. Vernon Winfrey, Oprah's father as well as a longtime Metro Nashville Member of the council, passed Friday at the age of 89 after a brief illness.

Oprah Winfrey acknowledged her dad's murder in an Instagram message, including a video showing Vernon Winfrey hosting his own backyard BBQ on Independence Day. Wintley Phipps, a gospel singer, honoured Vernon and his family and friends by performing a song for him.