Prince’s Canadian ex-wife is sharing her grief with the world. Manuela Testolini released a statement detailing her heartbreak and her plans to build a school in honour of the legendary musician.
"Prince and I had a magical journey together and I loved him immensely. The world knew him as a musical genius - I knew him as a husband, friend and fierce philanthropist," Testolini’s statement read.
The Toronto-native reveals that she had been in contact with the star only days prior to his death to discuss building a school in his name. "Philanthropy brought us together and it was Prince who encouraged me to start my own charity over 10 years ago," Testolini says. "I just reached out to him a few days ago to let him know that I was building a school in his honor. My heart aches that the school will now be built in his memory."
"His passing leaves me with such a devastating feeling of pain and loss. The love we shared, the music he made and our life together is forever engraved in my heart. I will always love and respect him. I am heartbroken beyond words,” Testolini concludes the note.
Testolini, who is currently married to R&B singer Eric Benet, wed Prince back in 2001 before divorcing amicably in 2006. Prince was also married to backup singer Mayte Garcia from 1996 to 1999.
