AceShowbiz -

The celebration turned into grief for Ludacris when his father dead Sunday Feb 25th, just two weeks after his Grammy victory. Wayne Brian Bridges died Sunday morning in an Atlanta hospital after a long illness, the rapper's publicist Barry Florence said.

"We are overwhelmed by the generous outpouring of love, condolences and support from family members, friends, fans and the many well wishers," Ludacris' family said in a statement released Monday Feb 26th. "We thank you for your prayers and hope you will understand our need for privacy during this sorrowful time."

Details on the cause of the death are being kept under wrap while the family plans a private funeral in Atlanta. No words on when and where the funeral will take place.

Ludracris, won double at the 49th annual Grammy Awards held Feb 11th for Best Rap Song for "Money Maker" and Best Rap Album for "Release Therapy", dedicated his winning to his father whom he claimed his "major musical influences."