Darcelle XV, the Guinness World Record holder for the oldest drag queen performer died on Thursday at the age of 92 from natural causes.
Darcelle XV Showplace announced the news on Instagram, writing, “Darcelle XV’s family, cast, and crew are heartbroken to announce that our beloved Darcelle died at the age of 92 from natural causes. We request privacy and understanding as everyone processes and grieves in their unique way and at their own pace. The location of a public memorial will be announced as soon as it is confirmed.” Walter W. Cole was the real name of Darcelle XV.
Guinness World Records crowned Darcelle XV as the oldest drag queen in 2016. According to Guinness, the Darcelle XV Showplace, which she owned, is “the West Coast’s longest-running drag show.”
Cole was born in 1930 and raised in the Linnton neighborhood of Portland. According to his club’s website, he served in the United States Armed Forces and was discharged in the late 1950s, after which he used the money he received from the military to start his first business.