Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in the 1980s. After a brief period of apparent remission, the disease returned in 1996. She retired to her parents' home in Philadelphia. A decade later, she had recovered sufficiently to return to live in Las Vegas.
Born in Camden, NJ, of African-American and Cuban descent. Her family later moved to Philadelphia. She attended Germantown High School there. Raised Episcopalian, she later converted to Roman Catholicism.
In later years she has turned to religion for comfort and solace,
touring much of the time as an evangelist.
Was nominated for Broadway's 1975 Tony Award as Best Actress (Musical)
for "Doctor Jazz."
She was nominated for the 2022 New Jersey Hall of Fame in the Performing Arts and Entertainment category.
Daughter of Bennett Falana, and Cleo Falana.
She was nominated for the 2024 New Jersey Hall of Fame in the Performing Arts & Entertainment category.