As one of Whitney Houston‘s closest friends, the world has waited to see how R&B star Ray J would respond to her untimely passing.  He has released an official statement:

“Over the past few days, I’ve tried to process the emptiness that I am experiencing.  What my heart feels cannot be expressed in words.  The world lost an icon, but I lost my close friend.

Nippy, I miss you so much!  Nippy was a nickname Whitney’s dad gave her.

You were so happy and full of love.  Your smile will live in my heart forever.”