As 2024 comes to a close, we reflect on the remarkable lives of the Black legends, trailblazers, cultural icons, and innovators we lost this year—individuals who shaped the worlds of art, music, film, activism, and beyond. From the timeless brilliance of Quincy Jones, whose genius as a composer and producer redefined music across genres, to the commanding voice of James Earl Jones, whose performances on stage and screen became synonymous with excellence, these figures left an indelible mark on our history. We said goodbye to Carl Weathers, who broke barriers both as an NFL athlete and as Apollo Creed in the Rocky films, and to Faith Ringgold, whose vibrant story quilts brought the struggles and triumphs of the Civil Rights era to life.
The year also marked the passing of Dikembe Mutombo, a Hall of Fame basketball star who not only dominated the court with his legendary defense but also changed lives through his philanthropy in Africa. We remember Cissy Houston, a gospel powerhouse who shaped the sound of soul music and raised a legend in her daughter, Whitney Houston. And let us not forget Marlena Shaw, whose soulful voice and hits like California Soul provided the soundtrack to generations of music lovers.
While we mourn their loss, we also celebrate the legacies they leave behind—legacies that will continue to inspire, challenge, and uplift us for generations to come. These extraordinary individuals are gone, but their contributions to culture, progress, and artistry remain eternal. Here, we honor their lives and the indelible impact they made on our world.
Marlena Shaw (1940–2024, Age 84)
Date of Passing: January 19
The legendary jazz and soul singer, known for hits like California Soul, passed away at the age of 84. Her career spanned six decades, and her timeless music continues to inspire.
Dexter Scott King (1961–2024, Age 62)
Date of Passing: January 22
The son of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Dexter passed after a battle with prostate cancer. As a leader of the King Center, he worked tirelessly to preserve his father’s legacy and promote nonviolence.
Hinton Battle (1956–2024, Age 67)
Date of Passing: January 30
The three-time Tony Award-winning actor, singer, and dancer passed away at 67. He made history as the first Scarecrow in Broadway’s The Wiz, setting the stage for Black excellence in theater.
Carl Weathers (1948–2024, Age 76)
Date of Passing: February 1
The actor, director, and former NFL linebacker, best known for playing Apollo Creed in the Rocky films, passed away from heart disease. Weathers also made a significant impact behind the camera as a director.
Henry Fambrough (1938–2024, Age 85)
Date of Passing: February 7
The last surviving original member of The Spinners passed away at 85. Fambrough’s group was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame just months before his passing, cementing their musical legacy.
Louis Gossett Jr. (1936–2024, Age 87)
Date of Passing: March 29
The first Black man to win an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, for An Officer and a Gentleman, passed away at the age of 87. Gossett’s powerful roles in films like Roots and Iron Eagle made him a pioneer for Black actors in Hollywood.
DJ Mister Cee (1967–2024, Age 57)
Date of Passing: April 10
A trailblazing DJ and Hip-Hop legend, Mister Cee passed away at 57. Known for discovering Biggie Smalls and shaping NYC rap radio, he was a foundational figure in the culture.
Faith Ringgold (1930–2024, Age 93)
Date of Passing: April 12
The artist and activist whose revolutionary story quilts like Tar Beach addressed racial and social issues passed away at 93. Her work became synonymous with the Civil Rights Movement and remains influential in art and activism.
Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (1950–2024, Age 74)
Date of Passing: July 22
The longtime Texas congresswoman and Civil Rights advocate passed away at 74. Known for championing reparations and justice initiatives, Lee was a tireless public servant who left a legacy of empowerment.
Erica Ash (1978–2024, Age 46)
Date of Passing: July 29
The actress and comedian, best known for Real Husbands of Hollywood and Survivors Remorse, passed away at 46. Her vibrant performances brought joy to fans, and her work on screen and stage was celebrated widely.
Beatking (1985–2024, Age 39)
Date of Passing: August 15
Houston’s “Club God,” known for his humor-filled party anthems like Throw Dat Ahh, passed away at 39 from complications related to a pulmonary embolism.
John Amos (1939–2024, Age 84)
Date of Passing: August 21
The actor, best known for his roles in Good Times and Roots, passed away of natural causes. Amos was a trailblazer for positive Black representation on television and film.
Fatman Scoop (1971–2024, Age 53)
Date of Passing: August 31
The legendary hype man and voice behind Be Faithful passed away at 53. His infectious energy and iconic presence made him a staple in music and nightlife culture.
Rich Homie Quan (1989–2024, Age 33)
Date of Passing: September 5
The Atlanta rapper, known for his introspective lyrics and hits like Type of Way, passed away at 33. His music resonated with fans for its raw honesty and relatability.
James Earl Jones (1931–2024, Age 93)
Date of Passing: September 9
The legendary actor with a career spanning theater, television, and film passed away at 93. Known for his iconic voice in The Lion King and Star Wars, Jones was a towering figure in the arts.
Tito Jackson (1953–2024, Age 70)
Date of Passing: September 16
An original member of The Jackson 5, Tito passed away on September 16. His guitar work and harmonious contributions helped define the sound of Motown and pop music’s golden era.
Dikembe Mutombo (1966–2024, Age 58)
Date of Passing: September 30
The Hall of Fame basketball center and humanitarian passed away at 58. Known for his shot-blocking prowess and philanthropy, Mutombo was a global ambassador for the NBA and a force for good.
Cissy Houston (1933–2024, Age 91)
Date of Passing: October 7
The gospel and soul icon, who mentored Whitney Houston and worked with legends like Aretha Franklin and Elvis Presley, passed away at 91. Her contributions to music and faith are unmatched.
Quincy Jones (1933–2024, Age 91)
Date of Passing: November 3
The music legend, composer, and producer of hits like Thriller passed away at 91. Jones’ influence on music spans decades, earning him 28 Grammy Awards and a place in history as one of the most innovative musicians.
Tony Todd (1954–2024, Age 69)
Date of Passing: November 6
The actor best known for his chilling role in Candyman passed away at 69. A classically trained performer, Todd brought depth and gravitas to horror and beyond.
Nikki Giovanni (1943–2024, Age 81)
Date of Passing: December 9
The poet, educator, and activist, whose works like Ego-Tripping became staples of the Black Arts Movement, passed away at 81. Giovanni’s words continue to inspire and empower generations.
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