Kanye West Picture 1169823

Pic caption: * WEST'S MOTHER DIES. Rapper KANYE WEST is in mourning after his mother DR. DONDA WEST suddenly passed away in Los Angeles on Sunday (11Nov07).. The 30-year-old was in London when he heard the tragic news and immediately ditched his commitments to catch a plane back to the U.S., according to reports.. The cause of death was unknown as WENN went to press.. Kanye West has often spoken of the close relationship he shared with his mother, and he dedicated a song, Hey Mama, to her on his 2005 sophomore album Late Registration.. Donda West used to work as her son's manager. Earlier this year (07) she released a book called Raising Kanye about the rap superstar's childhood and her experiences as his manager. (GES/WNWC&WNWCAH/JC). . Dr. Donda West, mother and manager of Kanye West. NABFEME Dreamgirls Luncheon Sponsored by Moet & Chandon held at Greystone Mansion. Beverly Hills, California - 04.03.07