Obituaries

As we’ve come to understand year after year, day after day, death is an inevitable part of life—a universal truth that spares no one. Yet, despite its certainty, the weight of loss never becomes easier to bear, nor does the act of processing its impact. For those within Black culture, where community and shared experiences […]

Ron Kenoly, the powerhouse gospel singer and worship leader whose vibrant anthems like “Ancient of Days” and “Jesus Is Alive” became Sunday morning staples for Black churches and congregations worldwide, died Feb. 3. He was 81. His death was confirmed by his longtime music director, Bruno Miranda, who described Kenoly not as an entertainer, but […]

Elder Lawrence Blake, who served on the pastoral staff of West Angeles Church of God in Christ, died last week at 54.

Demond Wilson, the actor who brought Lamont Sanford to life on the iconic 1970s sitcom Sanford and Son, has died at the age of 79. Wilson passed away on Friday, January 30, 2026, at his home in Palm Springs, California, due to complications from cancer, as confirmed by his son, Demond Wilson Jr. Wilson’s portrayal of […]

Veteran actor Isiah Whitlock Jr., known for 'The Wire' and Spike Lee films, passed away at 71 after a short illness.

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.

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.

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.

Black Liberation Party member Assata Shakur, born JoAnne Deborah Byron, has died at the age of 78, according to family members.