Gen Z may be the dominating force in the world of social media, but Helen Van Winkle proved that The Silent Generation could hold its own on the internet.
And now, the internet will keep her memory alive forever. Helen Van Winkle, affectionately known to followers as Baddiewinkle, has died at the age of 97.
The beloved personality found social media fame at the age 85, after uploading a photo of herself wearing her great-granddaughter's clothes to X, then Twitter. She quickly coined the catchphrase, "stealing your man since 1928," a cheeky, irreverent nod to her age, more specifically its irrelevance. Van Winkle oozed confidence from a life lived to the fullest, and it was her age-defying style and humor that drew in millions of followers across various platforms.
Baddiewinkle found freedom in dressing in eclectic, sometimes outlandish outfits, building a reputation for her unique personal-style. She spoke out against ageism, the impossible standards set by the beauty industry, and advocated for the legalization of marijuana. She became an icon in her 90s, starring in commercials, ad campaigns, and music videos. By doing so, she gave The Silent Generation a voice, and a loud one at that.
On September 5, Van Winkle's great-granddaughter took to social media to share the news of her passing.
"Yesterday, an era ended and a star ascended. My great grandmother Helen Ruth Elam Vanwinkle danced her way to heaven. She was joy, rebellion, and tenderness wrapped in one. The crown is eternal, & her love on many realms will live forever. This isn't a goodbye, this is a See ya later my superstar. ?" she captioned the post.
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A post shared by Helen Van Winkle (@baddiewinkle)
Fans flooded the comments with love, mourning, yet celebrating the trail-blazer who proved age is nothing but a number.
"We all have to die, that's normal. But it’s about how you LIVED & this baddie right here was fabulous up until the end so I know she’s on the other end rejoicing! A legend she was and a legend she will be ❤️?️" wrote one fan.
"Baddie genuinely changed my perception of aging as a woman. She made me feel more excited to grow older; that joy and whimsy can live as long as we do if we continue to stoke those flames. Thank you for sharing her with us. my heart goes out to you and your family ❤️" commented another.
"Baddie really took it to the next level and beyond. She was unapologetically herself, and she brought us all so much joy and confidence. We’re gonna miss her so much, but that Baddie spirit is gonna live on forever. Go show them angels how we do it here on earth ??✨✨" shared a third.
Even Paris Hilton chimed in to celebrate Baddiewinkle's life. "She was iconic ? sending love ?," wrote Hilton.
Baddiewinkle will be missed across the internet, by people of all ages, all around the world.
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