Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2024

1. Richard D. Parsons

Richard D. Parsons’ tenure as CEO of Time Warner from 2002 to 2007 showcased his exceptional ability to turn around troubled organizations. Stepping into the role amid the fallout of the disastrous AOL-Time Warner merger, Parsons faced one of the toughest challenges in corporate history. With steady hands, he reduced the company’s crippling $30 billion debt to nearly half, streamlined operations, and focused on the firm’s strengths in media and entertainment.

2. Art Evans

Evans’ wife spoke on the passing of her Husband, saying  “We are heartbroken to share that Art has passed away. Please respect our privacy at this time. A memorial will be held for friends and family to attend at a later date. Thank you.”

Evans appeared in several movies including  Die Hard 2, School Daze, Christine & Tales from the Hood.

3. Aziza “Z” Barnes (Right)

Their family confirmed via a rep that Barnes died of suicide on Dec. 15. 

The family released a statement, saying “With heavy hearts, we regret to inform you of the passing of an undeniable and beloved artist, child, sibling, and friend Aziza ‘Z’ Barnes, Z has touched and inspired countless individuals both in their community and industry and will be deeply missed and endlessly loved by all who were fortunate to have experienced their presence and work. An incomparable talent, we look for understanding in Z’s words, and wish comfort and understanding as we grieve this loss.”

4. Rickey Henderson

Rickey Henderson, Baseball Hall of Famer and widely regarded as one of the greatest leadoff hitters and base stealers in Major League Baseball (MLB) history passed away after a bout with pneumonia, days before his 66th Birthday. Known for his speed and on-base abilities, his career stats include a .279 batting average with 297 home runs and 1,115 runs batted in. Henderson holds the MLB records for career stolen bases, runs scored, unintentional walks, and leadoff home runs.

5. Alfa Anderson

Singer Alfa Anderson has passed away. Anderson is a singer and performer best known for her work as a vocalist with the band Chic, which was popular in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Chic, founded by Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards, is famous for hits like “Le Freak” and “Good Times.” Rodgers confirmed Anderson’s passing on his official Instagram account.

6. Hans ‘Prime’ Dobson

Hans ‘Prime’ Dobson was best known for his time on the cultural staple ‘Rap City’—dubbed the longest-running cable music video show to feature rap music.

7. Nikki Giovanni

Poet, activist and educator Nikki Giovanni passed away on December 9 at the age of 81. Cousin Allison Ragan said on behalf of the family, “We will forever feel blessed to have shared a legacy and love with our dear cousin.”

8. Dominique Brown

Influencer Dominique Brown passed away at 34 reportedly from a severe allergic reaction.  On December 5th, Brown was at a BoxLunch event when she unknowingly ate food that she was allergic to, according to other attendees.

9. Robin Ayers

Radio host Robin Ayers passed away on December 5 at 54. The cause of death is not known at this time. 

10. Peter Westbrook

Peter Westbrook, the first Black American to win an Olympic medal in fencing passed away. He was 72 years old. In 1984, Westbrook won an Olympic bronze medal at the Los Angeles Games in the individual saber. His win was notable for being not only first time an Black American fencer won an Olympic medal, but also first time in more than 35 years an American won an Olympic medal in fencing.

11. TJ Swan of The Juice Crew

Days before Thanksgiving, the OG Hip-Hop world mourned together as word broke that legendary Hip-Hop artist TJ Swan passed away at the young age of 57.

Known for rocking shiny silk shirts and designer Bally shoes, TJ Swan made a name for himself as part of the legendary Juice Crew which gave us Hip-Hop icons such as Roxanne Shanté, Biz Markie and Big Daddy Kane amongst many others. Taking to his own IG page to pay homage to TJ Swan, Big Daddy Kane paid respect to his Hip-Hop brother-in-arms with a video tribute of his own writing, “Rest well my good Brother!!! Rocking at a party, Shocking everybody!”

12. Bob “Butterbean” Love

Former NBA star Bob “Butterbean” Love has passed away at the age of 81 following a prolonged battle with cancer. Love’s career, marked by perseverance and determination, made him a standout figure in basketball

13. Lou Donaldson

Legendary saxophonist Lou “Sweet Poppa Lou” Donaldson passed away on November 9, 2024 at 98 years old. He is credited for being one of the first to bridge bebop and soul, and is known as a pioneer of the soul-jazz genre. Donaldson, writer of ‘Blues Walk’, is a member of the International Jazz Hall of Fame, an NEA Jazz Master (the nation’s highest award for jazz artists), and much more.

14. Judith Jamison

Judith Jamison, a luminary in the world of dance and an iconic figure in American choreography, has passed away at 81. Her death, following a brief illness, marks the end of an era for the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, where she served as a guiding light for decades.

Jamison’s extraordinary career began when she joined the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in the 1960s, quickly becoming one of its most celebrated performers. Her presence on stage was nothing short of mesmerizing, her movements both powerful and graceful. For 15 years, she danced with the company, captivating audiences with her talent and passion before leaving to explore other artistic endeavors, including performances with renowned ballet companies and Broadway productions.

In 1989, Jamison returned to the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, not as a dancer, but as its artistic director—a role she embraced for 20 years. Her leadership transformed the company, pushing the boundaries of contemporary dance and ensuring its place on the global stage. Under her guidance, the company flourished, and her influence extended far beyond choreography and performances.

15. Tony Todd

Tony Todd, the immense talent behind the ‘Candyman’ films, has passed away at the age of 69. Known for his towering presence and the deeply resonant voice that could both chill and captivate, Todd leaves behind a legacy that will be cherished by fans and colleagues alike.

Over the years, he amassed a diverse body of work, appearing in critically acclaimed films such as “The Crow,” “The Rock,” and the “Final Destination” series. His turns in “Platoon” and “Night of the Living Dead” further showcased his versatility as an actor, capable of bringing nuance and authenticity to a wide range of characters.

Todd reprised his role as Candyman in “Candyman: Farewell to the Flesh” (1995), “Candyman 3: Day of the Dead” (1999), and the recent sequel “Candyman” (2021). Beyond horror, he made memorable appearances on television shows like “Boston Public,” “Law & Order,” “Smallville,” “Charmed,” “21 Jump Street,” and “Star Trek: The Next Generation.”

16. Tyka Nelson

17. Quincy Jones

Quincy Jones le 13 juillet 2019 au Montreux Jazz Festival, Suisse. (Photo by Lionel FLUSIN/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images) color image,photography,horizontal,human interest,quincy jones,switzerland,montreux,montreux jazz festival

18. Sneakertopia Los Angeles VIP Preview

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – OCTOBER 24: DJ Clark Kent attends the Sneakertopia Los Angeles VIP Preview at HHLA on October 24, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Sneakertopia, Inc.) vertical,photography,celebrities,arts culture and entertainment,attending,usa,california,city of los angeles

19. Phoenix Suns v Washington Bullets

LANDOVER, MD – CIRCA 1992: Jerrod Mustaf #0 of the Phoenix Suns warms up prior to playing the Washington Bullets in an NBA basketball game circa 1992 at the Capital Centre in Landover, Maryland. Mustaf played for the Suns from 1991-94. (Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images) vertical,color image,photography,usa,sport,basketball – sport,nba,match – sport,landover,sports activity,scoring,taking a shot – sport,phoenix suns,washington wizards,capital centre,nba pro basketball,dribbling – sports,maryland – us state,making a basket – scoring,warm up exercise,blocking – sports activity

20. 2017 Big Apple Con

NEW YORK, NY – MARCH 11: David Harris and Terry Michos of “The Warriors” movie attends the 2017 Big Apple Con at Penn Plaza Pavilion on March 11, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Bobby Bank/Getty Images) photography,celebrities,arts culture and entertainment,attending,horizontal,usa,new york city

21. AAC Basketball Tournament – Semifinals

FORT WORTH, TX – MARCH 16: Head coach Amir Abdur-Rahim of the South Florida Bulls walks on the court during the AAC Men’s Basketball Championship – Semifinal game between UAB Blazers and South Florida Bulls at Dickies Arena on March 16, 2024 in Fort Worth, Texas. (Photo by Aric Becker/ISI Photos/Getty Images) color image,photography,horizontal,usa,sport,texas,basketball – sport,gulf coast states,walking,championship,head coach,ncaa college conference team,fort worth,ncaa,usf bulls,semifinal round,uab blazers,men’s college basketball,american athletic conference,sports court,university of alabama at birmingham,dickies arena,men’s basketball,2024

22. Thelma Mothershed Wair

23. Cissy Houston

24. John Amos

25. Dikembe Mutombo

Former NBA great Dikembe Mutombo passed away after a fight with Brain Cancer.

26. Cat Glover

Glover, whose full name was Catherine Vernice Glover, was a choreographer, dancer, singer, and rapper for Prince’s “Sign O’ the Times” and “Lovesexy” tours. Glover appeared in the “Sign O’ the Times” concert film and the “Lovesexy Live” broadcast. She also performed a memorable rap on the song “Alphabet St.” from Prince’s “Lovesexy” album and contributed to “The Black Album.” Glover released the EP “Catwoman”, her only solo project.

27. Tito Jackson

Tito Jackson, Singer & Musician In Iconic Jackson Family, Passes Away at 70

28. Frankie Beverly

Iconic R&B/Soul Singer Frankie Beverly Has Passed Away

29. James Earl Jones

30. Wally Amos

Wallace “Wally” Amos, the founder of Famous Amos Cookies, has passed away at the age of 88.

Two of his children, Shawn and Sarah Amos, confirmed to the New York Times that he died on Aug. 13 at his home in Honolulu, Hawaii, due to complications of dementia.

31. Abdul Duke Fakir

According to a family spokesperson, Fakir died of heart failure with his wife and family by his side.

32. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Tex.)

Jackson-Lee announced last month she had been diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer and has battled Breast Cancer in the past.

33. Dr. Robert L. Allen

Author of the “Port of Chicago Mutiny“

34. Joe “Jellybean” Bryant

Joe Bryant, the father of the late NBA Icon Kobe Bryant has died. Bryant, reportedly has been dealing with health issues, including a massive stroke.

35. Khyree Jackson

Minnesota Vikings rookie cornerback Khyree Jackson died on Saturday (July 6th). According to a report from TMZ, Jackson along with two others was killed in a car accident with two other vehicles in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, his hometown.

36. KeKe Jabbar

A statement after Jabbar’s passing read “It is with extreme sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Keke. She passed away peacefully at home surrounded by love. She was a mom, a sister, and a great friend full of life, love and laughter. She will be sorely missed and at this time, we are asking for respect and privacy in our moment of grief while we process this great loss. The Jabbar Family and the Scott Family,”

37. Renauld White

Renauld White died in hospice care at Lenox Hill Hospital in Manhattan on Wednesday at the age of 80, according to WWD. His cause of death has not been reported.

38. Dante Hall

Gospel Singer Dante Hall passed away suddenly. Hall had a successful solo career and worked with a who’s who in Gospel including Donald Lawrence.

39. Rev. James Lawson

Rev. James Lawson, a leading theoretician and tactician of nonviolence within the American Civil Rights Movement along with Nashville’s civil rights movement, died on June 9 at 95. Read more about his life by clicking here.

40. John Mitchell

John Mitchell, who faithfully served Jackson and the Rainbow PUSH Coalition for nearly 30 years, was just 57 when he died on June 14. The cause of Mitchell’s death was listed as Stage 4 Myeloma, the Chicago Crusader reported.

“We rejoice and praise God that our beloved brother John Mitchell, ‘Big John,’ has gone on to see and bear witness to the King in heaven. We give all praise and thanks to God Almighty for John and the blessings he gave us through his undying loyalty, unwavering commitment and his invaluable and dedicated service to the Rainbow PUSH Coalition and the millions of people we serve,” Yusef Jackson, the COO of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, said in a statement. “John was a general on the battlefield for Civil and Human Rights movements.  He made a difference in registering thousands of voters and securing opportunities for minority and female businesses across many different industries. Moreover, John was a master at connecting international alliances, including helping to free Nelson Mandela, to enhance peace for mankind.”

41. Dr. Nathan Hare

Dr. Nathan Hare, a pioneering sociologist and psychologist who was also called the father of Black Studies, died on June 10 at the age of 91.

Hare’s death was first reported by Diverse.

More from Diverse:

In 1968, Hare was hired at San Francisco State College (now known as San Francisco State University) as the first program coordinator of the school’s Black Studies program, the first program of its kind in the United States.

He is credited with coining the term “ethnic studies” to replace “minority studies” and was a productive researcher and scholar, publishing a number of books with his late wife, Dr. Julia Hare.

The History Makers website has more on Hare’s impressive career:

In 1961, he became an instructor and assistant professor in sociology at Howard University in Washington, D.C. Some of his students included Stokely Carmichael and Claude Brown. Later, in September 1966, he wrote a letter to the editor of the The Hilltop, Howard University’s student newspaper speaking out against then Howard University president James Nabrit’s plan to turn the university’s student body sixty percent white by 1970. As a result Hare was fired in 1967. In 1968, Hare joined the faculty of San Francisco State College (now San Francisco State University) and became the program coordinator of the school’s Black Studies program, the first in the United States. This has earned him the title “father of Black Studies” by scholars. As the program coordinator, Hare created the term “ethnic studies” to replace the more pejorative “minority studies.” Hare battled with the college administration and left the college just a year later, in 1969. Needing a way to express his thoughts and the ideas of others, he founded the scholarly periodical, The Black Scholar: A Journal of Black Studies and Research in 1969. He left the journal in 1975 to work as a clinical psychologist in community health programs, hospitals, and in private practice. In 1979, he co-founded the Black Think Tank with his wife, Julia Hare. The Black Think Tank addresses the problems and concerns that plague the African American community.

42. Bill Cobbs

According to his publicist, Cobbs passed away in his home. Cobbs just turned 90 on June 16th.

43. Julio Foolio

The Rapper was shot and killed outside a Florida hotel. 

44. Willie Mays

Michael Mays, Willie’s son said in a statement released by the Giants, saying ““My father has passed away peacefully and among loved ones,” said Michael Mays. “I want to thank you all from the bottom of my broken heart for the unwavering love you have shown him over the years. You have been his life’s blood.”

45. Angela Bofill

46. Enchanting

It was reported that she was in critical condition from a suspected overdose that led to her untimely passing.

47. Chet Walker

In 1969, Walker was traded to the Chicago Bulls, where he was a key player, leading the team in scoring and helping them reach the playoffs multiple times. Walker was a 7× NBA All-Star. Walker was named to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Induction in 2012.

48. Chuck Roberts

Known as the “Voice of House,” House Music Legend Chuck Roberts reportedly of Cancer. He was 66 years old

49. Mark Ross a.k.a. Brother Marquis

Hip-Hop is mourning the loss of another OG in the game, as iconic rap group 2 Live Crew confirmed the passing of member Mark Ross a.k.a. Brother Marquis.

The rapper passed away on Monday, June 3, according to a post on the group’s official social media account. The caption simply states that Ross “has went to the upper room.”

Although not an original member of the crew, Brother Marquis helped cement the group’s place in hip-hop infamy, along with DJ Mr. Mixx, the late Fresh Kid Ice, and Luke “Skyywalker” Campbell.

50.

51. Marian Robinson

Marian Robinson, the mother of former First Lady, Michelle Obama has passed away. In a social media post announcing the passing, Michelle Obama said “My mom Marian Robinson was my rock, always there for whatever I needed. She was the same steady backstop for our entire family, and we are heartbroken to share she passed away today” which included a statement from the family.

52. Drew Gordon

The former NBA player and brother of Denver Nuggets star Aaron Gordon was killed in a car accident in Portland, Oregon, on Thursday, May 30th. He was 33 years old.

53. Reverend William A. Lawson

The official Instagram Page for Wheeler Church said the following:

“It is with both inexpressible sorrow and overwhelming gratitude that we announce the passing of our Founding Pastor, Reverend William A. Lawson on May 14, 2024. He has completed his time of service here on earth and is now enjoying eternal rest. In his nearly 96 years, Reverend Lawson has served as husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather, as well as preacher, professor, and civil rights leader. But whatever title you may have used to describe him, it has been said many times that Reverend Bill Lawson was ‘Houston’s Pastor.’”

54. Archie Cooley

Cooley was known as the “The Gunslinger” and during his time at Mississippi Valley State introduced his innovative “Satellite Express” offense. The offense featured a no-huddle look with five wide receivers and showcased quarterback Willie Totten and Rice. Rice would go on to a stellar career with the San Francisco 49ers, election to the Pro Football Hall of Fame and is considered one of the greatest receivers in the history of the NFL.

Cooley was born in Sumrall and raised in Laurel where he attended Oak Park High School.

Cooley played for Jackson State from 1959-61 and was captain of the team. He started at linebacker and center for coach John Merritt. Cooley graduated in 1962.

55. U.S. Rep. Donald Payne Jr.

U.S. Rep. Donald Payne Jr., the Congressman from New Jersey who represented the Garden State on Capitol Hill for a dozen years, has died. He was 65.

56. William Strickland

Civil rights activist William Strickland died April 10 at the age of 87, according to AP.

William Strickland was an avid supporter of the Black Power movement and worked with many leaders of the Black community in the 1960s. AP confirmed Stickland’s death through family.

William Strickland found his civil rights calling while in high school in Massachusetts after becoming inspired by the writings of James Baldwin and Richard Wright.

In the early 1960s, Strickland joined the Boston chapter of the Northern Student Movement and participated in protests throughout the South. In 1963, he was promoted to director of the organization and began working alongside prominent leaders like Malcolm X and others in New York, focusing on civil rights issues such as strikes, school boycotts, police brutality as well as rent increases.

“He made incredible contributions to the Black freedom movement that haven’t really been appreciated,” Peter Blackmer, an assistant professor of Africology and African American Studies at Eastern Michigan University, told AP. “His contention was that civil rights wasn’t a sufficient framework for challenging the systems that were behind the oppression of Black communities throughout the diaspora.”

In 1969, after MLK was assassinated, Strickland co-founded the Institute of the Black World. The organization was a think tank for Black intellectuals.

He would spend his later years teaching political science at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

57. Chance Perdomo

Actor Chance Perdomo who was known for his role in the new Amazon show “Gen V” has died following a motorcycle crash, according to AP. The young actor was 27 years old.

“On behalf of the family and his representatives, it is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Chance Perdomo’s untimely passing as a result of a motorcycle accident,” a publicist said to AP in a statement Saturday evening.

According to the family publicist, no one else was injured in the motorcycle crash but no details about the incident have yet been released.

Chance Perdomo was also widely known for his role in the Netflix series “Chilling Adventures of Sabrina,” where he played the role of Ambrose Spellman. Perdomo starred in 36 episodes, which spanned over 4 seasons.

In 2023, Perdomo starred in his most popular role as Andre Anderson in The Boys spinoff series Gen V. The show follows a group of young superheroes who must navigate their college experience while being controlled by an evil corporation called Vought. The show was a hit success for Amazon Prime.

Following Chance Perdomo his representatives also released a heartfelt statement offering condolences to the family and asking for fans to respect the family’s privacy during these difficult times.

“His passion for the arts and insatiable appetite for life was felt by all who knew him, and his warmth will carry on in those who he loved dearest,” the statement read. “We ask to please respect the family’s wish for privacy as they mourn the loss of their beloved son and brother.”

The producers of the show shared their love for Perdomo’s family on social.

“We can’t quite wrap our heads around this,” the statement said. “For those of us knew him and worked with him, Chance was always charming and smiling, an enthusiastic force of nature, an incredibly talented performer, and more than anything else, just a very kind, loving person. Even writing about him in the past tense doesn’t make sense. We are so sorry for Chance’s family, and we are grieving the lost of our friend and colleague. Hug your loved ones tonight.”

Amazon MGM Studios also shared statements remembering Perdomo.

“The entire GEN V family is devastated by the sudden passing of Chance Perdomo,” Amazon said. “Amazon MGM Studios and Song Picture Television extend our heartfelt thoughts and support to Chance’s family and all who love him at this difficult time.”

58. Mandisa

Former American Idol alum and Christian singer Mandisa has died. She was 47 years old.

Known for her powerhouse voice, Mandisa began her singing career at an early age as a member of the Fisk Jubilee Singers while she attended Fisk University. After competing in season 5 of American Idol where she finished in the Top 10, Mandisa went on to release her first album, True Beauty, in 2007. As a Grammy winner and two-time K-LOVE Fan Award winner, some of her most notable music collaborations have included songs with Kirk Franklin, TobyMac and Matthew West. 

At this time, Mandisa cause of death is unknown. 

59. Rico Wade

Rapper Killer Mike spoke on the passing of Wade on social media, saying “I don’t have the words to express my deep and profound sense of loss. I am Praying for your wife and Children. I am praying for the Wade family. I am praying for us all.

I deeply appreciate your acceptance into The Dungeon Family, mentorship, Friendship and Brotherhood. Idk where I would be without ya’ll.

This is a part of the journey. You told me “It ain’t been hard throughout the journey, it’s been a Journey.”  The journey ain’t gonna be the Same Journey with U. Like U say tho Umma “Stay Down on it”……we all are.”

60. Faith Ringgold

Award-winning author and artist Faith Ringgold died on April 12 at the age of 93. Her death was confirmed by her assistant Grace Matthews, who said Ringgold died at her home in Englewood, New Jersey .

Ringgold was a true pioneer for Black women in the art world. In 1971 she founded the ‘Where We At’ artists collective for Black women. She also turned to social activism, protesting American museums for the lack of representation of Black female artists.

61. O.J. Simpson

O.J. Simpson passed away from cancer at the age of 76

62. DJ Mister Cee

Born in Bedford–Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, in the late 80’s Mister Cee came to fame as Big Daddy Kane’s DJ, who he met while in high school. As part of the Juice Crew, Cee was there on Kane’s seminal debut album Long Live The Kane, featuring on a song called “Mister Cee’s Master Plan” with his expert cutting and scratching throughout the album.

But perhaps even more notable is that Cee is credited with discovering late, great rapper the Notorious B.I.G. Cee was among the first to co-sign the then local rap phenom before appearing in The Source magazine’s Unsigned Hype section.

63. Vontae Davis

Former NFL star cornerback Vontae Davis has been found dead in a Florida home at the age of 35.

A death investigation is underway.

According to property records, the home is owned by Adaline Davis, who is Davis’ grandmother.

Police said that a male was found deceased at the home and that no foul play was involved.

64. Saxophonist Casey Benjamin

Casey Benjamin, the renowned saxophonist and founding member of the Robert Glasper Experiment, has passed away at the age of 46. There are currently no details regarding the cause of his death.

Casey Benjamin was born in 1978. He grew up in the vibrant neighborhood of South Jamaica in Queens, New York. Introduced to the saxophone at the age of eight, he honed his skills at the esteemed Harlem School of the Arts. Later, he continued his musical education at Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art, the alma mater of notable artists such as Jennifer Aniston, Al Pacino, and Nicki Minaj.

65. Sarah-Ann Shaw, advocate-journalist who broke barriers at WBZ, dies at 90

Sarah-Ann Shaw, a pioneering journalist who made history as the first Black woman TV report in Boston, died on March 21. She was 90.

CBS News, the parent company of its affiliate WBZ-TV network in Boston for which Shaw worked for more than three decades, confirmed her death in a news article.

66. Louis Gossett, Jr

Gossett, Jr became the first Black actor to win the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor Oscar.

67. Dorie Ladner

68. Gylan Kain

Gylan Kain, a founding member of the famed spoken word group The Last Poets, died in February. The death was only made public in March after Kain’s family did not initially release details.

The New York Times reported that Kain died in the city of Lelystad in the Netherlands while at a nursing home. According to Kain’s son, Rufus Kain, his father passed away from heart disease.

69. Jessica Pettway

Long-time beauty and hair influencer Jessica Pettway. According to Jessica’s family, the social media starlet has died.

The devastating news comes after a surprising cervical cancer diagnosis and public battle with the disease. According to the YouTuber, after being misdiagnosed with fibroids, a doctor told her she had stage 3 cervical cancer.  Jessica leaves behind a husband and two beautiful daughters.

“Being told I have cancer didn’t devastate me,” she said in an Instagram post at the time. “It was the reaction of those close to me. I knew that God is my healer and that no weapon formed against me, not even cancer, would prosper. I knew that I am more than a conqueror and that I will get through this.” influencer jessica pettway,jessica pettway

70. Sandra Crouch

Sandra Crouch, Grammy-winning gospel artist, preacher, and the twin sister of late gospel great Andraé Crouch, has passed away at the age of 81.

As reported by the Journal of Gospel Music, Crouch transitioned on March 17, 2024. Her death was confirmed on the Facebook page of New Christ Memorial Church in California, where she served as Senior Pastor.

71. Anthony “Baby Gap” Walker

Anthony “Baby Gap” Walker, a member of R&B/funk group The Gap Band, has passed away at the age of 60.

The musician and dancer died in an Ohio hospital on March 4 of complications from a recent neck surgery, according to his brother, Dr. Eric Walker.  A memorial service will take place later this week in his hometown of Chicago.

72. Bo$$

Boss, stylized Bo$$, was the very first female rap act signed to Def Jam, with her debut album, Born Gangstaz, released in 1993. The lead single—the Def Jef produced “Deeper”—was a no. 1 hit on the rap charts. Her gruff style and hardcore delivery, along with beats provided by Erick Sermon, T-Ray, MC Serch, and the late Jam Master Jay, amongst others, quickly made her a fan favorite, but a proper follow-up album never materialized.

Although tabbed as a West Coast rapper, she was born in Detroit. Moving to Los Angeles after high school, she was discovered by DJ Quik, who put her on a track with AMG. Word is it got the attention of Def Jam co-founder Russell Simmons, who inked her to the label’s fledgling Def Jam West imprint—but those in the know say Tracy Waples (an executive producer on the album) is who pushed for her signing.

73. Naomi Ruth Barber King

The sister-in-law of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. who was considered the matriarch of the family and was also a civil rights activist.

74. Janice Burgess

The creator of ‘The Backyardigans’ Children’s Show

75. Wrestler Michael Jones

Best known to Wrestling Fans as Virgil, the handler of the Million Dollar Man Ted Dibiase, Vincent, & Soul Train Jones

76. Eric Mays

The beloved and outspoken councilman was best known unwavering passion for politics and viral quotes and court moments (i.e. “Point of Order!”). His contributions, impact, and energy will be missed by many.

77. Robert Reid

Robert Reid, the former NBA star who played 10 seasons with the Houston Rockets and helped take the franchise to its first two NBA Finals, passed away on Monday following a battle with cancer. He was 68 years old.

The news was confirmed online on Tuesday by Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta.

“It is with great sorrow that my family and I received the news of the passing of Rockets legend, Robert Reid,” Fertitta wrote in a Twitter post. “I have had the privilege of knowing Robert for over 40 years, and his presence always brought joy and positivity to any room he entered. I will never forget watching the Rockets teams he was a part of in the ’80s compete in the Finals and the love he had for the game. My heartfelt condolences go out to his wife, Diana, and all those who held him dear. Robert’s absence will be deeply felt, and he will be fondly remembered.”

78. Herbert Wigwe

79. Hydeia Broadbent

HIV/Aids Activist

80. Snoop Dogg’s Brother, Bing Worthington

81. Henry Fambrough

From the Associated Press:

Henry Fambrough, the last surviving original member of the iconic R&B group The Spinners, whose hits included “It’s a Shame,” “Could It Be I’m Falling in Love” and “The Rubberband Man,” died Wednesday, a spokesperson for the group said. He was 85.

Fambrough died peacefully of natural causes in his northern Virginia home, spokesperson Tanisha Jackson said in a statement.

Fambrough died on Feb. 7

82. Richard Caster

Richard Caster, a former HBCU football star who went on to play more than a dozen years as a professional football player in the NFL, died on Feb. 2 at 75.

83. Earl Cureton

Earl Cureton, a basketball star who won two NBA championships, died on Feb. 4.

84. Michael Watford

Michael Watford, a church-trained club singer whose baritone boomed over the world’s dance floors for much of the early 1990s, and in the process helped birth a subgenre of club music known as gospel house, died on Jan. 26 in Newark. He was 64.

His cousin Lorie Watford said the cause of his death, in a hospital, was dementia.

Mr. Watford’s signature hit was “So Into You,” a jubilant ditty that paired his romantic, yearning vocal, inspired by Luther Vandross, with insistent strings, a lush piano line, and frequent handclaps and drum rolls. It hit No. 1 on the Billboard dance chart in April 1994, only to be replaced a week later by Barbara Tucker’s “Beautiful People” — on which Mr. Watford provided backing vocals.

85. Clyde Taylor

Clyde Taylor, a “leading figure in the field of Black studies in the 1970s” who “identified work by Black filmmakers as worthy of serious intellectual attention,” died on Jan. 24 at 92, the New York Times reported.

86. Hage Geingob

Hage Geingob, the president of the African nation Namibia, died on Feb 5. He was 82.

87. Aston “Family Man” Barrett

Aston “Family Man” Barrett, the former bassist for legendary reggae group Bob Marley & The Wailers, died on Feb. 3. He was 77.

88. Carl Weathers

The Family said in a statement that Weathers “died peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, February 1st, 2024. … Carl was an exceptional human being who lived an extraordinary life. Through his contributions to film, television, the arts and sports, he has left an indelible mark and is recognized worldwide and across generations. He was a beloved brother, father, grandfather, partner, and friend.”

89. Radio Host Joe Madison

Madison was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2009. It went into remission following treatment. But he announced in December that the cancer had returned last year.

90. Hinton Battle

Broadway star Hinton Battle died Tuesday morning at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, according to Hollywood Reporter.

The Tony-winning performer died at 67 after battling an undisclosed illness, which the family intends to keep private.

91. Dexter King

Dexter Scott King.  The youngest son of the late great Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and equally missed Coretta Scott King, Dexter reportedly succumbed to an extensive battle with prostate cancer today (January 22). He was 62 years old.

92. Marlena Shaw

93. Reggie Wells

via PEOPLE:

“On Jan. 9, the local publication revealed that Wells — who worked with Oprah Winfrey for 30 years, among other A-list stars such as Beyoncé, Aretha Franklin, Michelle Obama, Diahann Carroll and Halle Berry — died in Baltimore, his hometown, “after [battling] a long illness.” He was 76. Before becoming the makeup artist he was known to be, Wells graduated from Baltimore City College and Maryland Institute College of Art and became a city art teacher, according to the Banner.”

94. Jerry Wade aka “The Ultimate Loverman”

Indianapolis disc jockey Jerry Wade, host of WTLC’s The Quiet Storm with The Loverman Jerry Wade for over 40 years, died at the age 61. his death was confirmed by family on Monday, January 8, 2024. 

via WTLC:

“While on the air, Jerry was ‘Mr. Loverman,’ a charismatic, deep voiced, radio disc-jockey, gracing the airwaves Sunday through Thursday with ‘sexiest show in the city.’ But off-air, Jerry made everyone else feel like they were the super star. ‘The Loverman’ was the personality, but if there he had an alter-ego it was just ‘Jerry.’ An ego-less man who loved Indianapolis and wanted to see people smile. What most listeners didn’t know, was Jerry’s giving heart. Jerry was also the Executive Director of ‘Quality of Life,’ an Adult Day Center on the east side of Indianapolis. If that wasn’t enough Jerry was also a entrepreneur, as the owner of several salons known as ‘Hot Cuts’ and of course ‘Jerry Wade Live’ his mobile DJ service. And a real life ‘Hitch’ as through his date coach services he connected and reconnected countless relationship.”

95. Josephine Wright

The The 94-year-old Hilton Head Island woman gained viral appeal in her legal battle to keep hold of her family’s ancestral land. She passed away on January 7 “surrounded by family, loved ones, and prayers” as per CNN.

More via CNN:

“Wright remained committed to protecting her property, filing multiple counterclaims, accusing the developer of harassing her and trashing her property.

‘I want to be left alone,’ Wright told CNN in July. ‘I want to live on my property like I have always in peace and quiet.’

Media mogul Tyler Perry, who had been a fierce champion of Wright in her fight against developers, said he was ‘heartbroken’ to learn of her death in a tribute on Instagram.

‘Ms. Josephine Wright, even though we spoke by phone, I was so looking forward to meeting you in person next month to hand you the keys to your new house, but God had other plans,’ Perry said.”

96. Former NFL Player Ronald Powell

No cause of death reported at this time