Obituaries - Page 3

Legendary dancer Carmen de Lavallade, who broke barriers and inspired generations, has passed away at 94.

Gospel legend Richard Smallwood, 8-time Grammy nominee, dies at 77 after kidney failure. Pioneered contemporary gospel sound.

Legendary Memphis soul artist Don Bryant, known for hits like 'I Can't Stand the Rain,' passes away at 83.

As we’ve come to understand year after year, day after day even, death is unfortunately an inevitable part of life. Still, as much of a fact as that may be, the blow of experiencing loss never gets any easier, nor does reporting on the subject in Black culture.

Pioneering Black Park Ranger Betty Reid Soskin, 104, championed marginalized voices & ensured underrepresented histories were not forgotten.

Viola “Mother” Ford Fletcher, one of the last living survivors of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, has died in Tulsa at the age of 111.

Jimmy Cliff’s international breakthrough came in 1972 after starring and recording the soundtrack for the cult classic film 'The Harder They Come.' 

Jamil Abdullah Al-Amin, formerly known as H. Rap Brown, a Black revolutionary who preached armed resistance, dies at 82.

Former Colts Defensive Tackle Arthur Jones Passes Away at 39 Arthur Jones, a former NFL defensive tackle and Super Bowl champion, has passed away at the age of 39. The Baltimore Ravens, where Jones began his career, confirmed the news in a statement on Friday. The cause of death has not been disclosed. Jones was […]

Conservationist Jane Goodall Passes Away at 91 While on U.S. Speaking Tour Renowned primatologist and conservationist Dr. Jane Goodall has passed away at the age of 91 due to natural causes while on a speaking tour in California. Her death, confirmed by the Jane Goodall Institute, marks the end of a groundbreaking career that transformed […]

‘Nicest Judge In The World’ Frank Caprio Passes Away at 88 Judge Frank Caprio, affectionately known as the “nicest judge in the world,” has passed away at the age of 88 after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Known for his compassion, humor, and humanity, Caprio became a global sensation through his viral courtroom moments […]

Notable People Who Have Passed Away in 2025 UPDATED: April 14th 2025 4:00PM Death is an inevitable part of life, a profound reminder of our shared fragility. The losses of 2025 have been especially heavy, as we’ve said goodbye to remarkable individuals who touched countless lives through their talents and achievements. From trailblazers in art, […]