2026 has proven to be another difficult year for the Black community as we’ve lost remarkable figures across entertainment, sports, civil rights, and beyond. These individuals shaped culture, challenged norms, and left legacies that will endure long after their passing. Here, we honor those we’ve said goodbye to.
Hal Williams
Hal Williams, the veteran actor best known for roles in “Sanford and Son,” “227,” and “Private Benjamin,” died on July 15 inside his California home at age 91. No official cause of death was disclosed. Williams is survived by his three children, leaving behind a career that spanned decades of television excellence.
Victor Willis
Hal Williams and Victor Willis, the lead voice of the Village People, died on June 30 at age 74 following a short, aggressive illness. Willis wasn’t just a singer—he was the sound of disco’s boldest era, his vocals powering “Y.M.C.A.,” “Macho Man,” and “In the Navy.” These songs transformed the Village People into a global phenomenon of costumes, choreography, and cultural impact.
Born in Texas and raised in the church, Willis found his voice in gospel before moving into Broadway. That foundation led him to co-create the Village People, a group that blurred the line between satire and pop perfection. He rejoined in 2017, continuing to perform the music that defined a generation. His final months carried a layer of complexity when “Y.M.C.A.” became associated with President Donald Trump’s political rallies and 2025 inauguration. Willis passed one day before his 75th birthday.
Tay Keith
GRAMMY-nominated hip-hop producer Tay Keith died on June 18 at age 29. Born Brytavious Lakeith Chambers, Keith was found unresponsive in his Nashville apartment during a wellness check. According to Metro Nashville Police, no foul play was suspected, though his death remained unclassified pending autopsy results.
Keith rose to prominence working with industry giants like Travis Scott, Drake, and Sexyy Red. His family remembered him as an artist, entrepreneur, and cultural force who shaped the sound of a generation. “Tay Keith was a visionary producer, songwriter, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and cultural force who helped define the sound of a generation,” his family told PEOPLE. “From Memphis to the global stage, his work shaped countless hit records.”
Talay Riley
Grammy-winning British singer-songwriter Talay Riley, real name Mark Orabiyi, died at age 35 following a fatal stabbing in east London. Riley was pronounced dead despite efforts by paramedics. Police said a second man was injured, and three people were arrested on suspicion of murder—though two were released without further action and another was released on bail.
Known as one of Britain’s most accomplished songwriters, Riley earned a Grammy for contributions to H.E.R.’s award-winning work and wrote for some of pop and R&B’s biggest stars, including Britney Spears, Usher, and Khalid. Tributes poured in from across the music industry, remembering him for his talent, generosity, and impact on those around him.
Stacey King
Stacey King, a three-time NBA champion with the Chicago Bulls who became one of the franchise’s most recognizable broadcasters, died on June 7 at age 59. No cause of death was disclosed. Selected sixth overall in the 1989 NBA Draft out of Oklahoma, King helped the Bulls win championships in 1991, 1992, and 1993 alongside Michael Jordan. After eight NBA seasons with five teams, he transitioned to broadcasting. Known for his energetic style and signature catchphrases, King spent nearly two decades as the Bulls’ television analyst and became beloved among Chicago sports fans.
Peabo Bryson
Peabo Bryson, the Grammy-winning R&B singer whose voice helped define some of Disney’s most beloved songs, died on June 2 at age 75, surrounded by family after suffering a stroke days earlier. Over five decades, Bryson was known for hit ballads and duets, including “Beauty and the Beast” with Celine Dion and “A Whole New World” with Regina Belle—both Grammy-winning Disney classics. He also scored solo hits such as “If Ever You’re in My Arms Again” and “Can You Stop the Rain.” Bryson is survived by his wife, Tanya, and two children.
Ronald LaPread
Ronald LaPread, co-founder and longtime bassist of the legendary funk and soul group The Commodores, died at age 75. His daughter, Soraya LaPread, announced his death online, though no cause was disclosed. “We were the best daddy daughter duo. If you know me you know my Dad. I am devastated. A piece of me is gone from this world,” she wrote.
LaPread shaped the band’s signature sound from 1970 to 1986, playing on hits including “Brick House,” “Easy,” “Three Times a Lady,” and the Grammy-winning “Nightshift.” Former bandmate Lionel Richie and The Commodores paid tribute. LaPread had lived in Auckland, New Zealand, for decades after departing the group.
Foster Sylvers
R&B singer Foster Sylvers passed away on May 30 after a battle with pancreatic cancer, his brother Leon Sylvers confirmed. The Memphis native rose to fame at a young age singing with his siblings. The Sylvers, often compared to The Jacksons, had a string of 1970s hits, including “Boogie Fever” and “Hot Line.” In 1973, Foster released a solo album at age 11 featuring the single “Misdemeanor,” which was later sampled by West Coast rapper The D.O.C. on his 1989 hit “It’s Funky Enough.” Foster Sylvers was 64.
Sonny Rollins
Sonny Rollins, the towering jazz saxophonist known as the “Saxophone Colossus,” died on May 25 at his New York home at age 95. Widely regarded as one of the greatest improvisers in jazz history, Rollins shaped bebop and hard bop through landmark recordings including “Saxophone Colossus,” “Way Out West,” and “The Bridge.” Over six decades, he performed with legends including Miles Davis, Thelonious Monk, and John Coltrane. Rollins earned Grammy Awards, Kennedy Center Honors, and the National Medal of Arts before retiring in 2012 due to pulmonary fibrosis.
Clarence B. Jones
Clarence B. Jones, the longtime adviser and speechwriter to Martin Luther King Jr. who helped craft the iconic “I Have a Dream” speech, died on May 22 in Cupertino, California, at age 95. Jones played a central role in the civil rights movement as King’s lawyer, strategist, and confidant, helping smuggle King’s “Letter from Birmingham Jail” from jail and contributing to major legal battles, including New York Times v. Sullivan. After King’s assassination, Jones became the first Black allied member of the New York Stock Exchange and later taught at Stanford and the University of San Francisco. In 2024, he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from former President Joe Biden.
Rob Base
Rob Base passed away on May 22 after a battle with cancer, his family announced on Instagram. The rapper, born Robert Ginyard in New York City, performed with DJ E-Z Rock. The duo was best known for late-1980s hits including “Joy and Pain” and “It Takes Two.”
His family shared a touching tribute, honoring his contributions to hip-hop and dedication to his family. “Rob’s music, energy, and legacy helped shape a generation and brought joy to millions around the world. Beyond the stage, he was a loving father, family man, friend, and creative force whose impact will never be forgotten,” they wrote. Rob Base was 59.
Sherman Lewis
Sherman Lewis, the longtime NFL assistant coach and former college football star, died on May 15 at age 83. A former All-American running back at Michigan State, Lewis finished third in Heisman Trophy voting in 1963 before playing professionally with the New York Jets and in the CFL. He became one of the NFL’s most respected offensive assistants, winning four Super Bowls—three with the San Francisco 49ers and one with the Green Bay Packers. Lewis served as offensive coordinator for multiple teams and was widely credited for leadership, innovation, and mentoring throughout the league.
Clarence Carter
Southern soul singer Clarence Carter died in his Decatur, Georgia, home on May 13 at age 90. Rodney Hall, president of FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, confirmed the news. “We are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend Clarence Carter. He recorded many of his greatest hits at FAME Studios alongside Rick Hall and remained part of the FAME family for more than four decades. He was far more than an artist to us. He was family,” Hall wrote.
Born in Alabama, Carter became a self-taught guitarist after receiving the instrument for Christmas. Best known for hits like “Patches” and “Strokin’,” Carter entered the music industry determined to stand out as a blind guitarist with a powerful voice. He rose to prominence in the ’70s and ’80s for his suggestive lyrics and groovy production.
Charlie Neal
Charlie Neal, legendary sports broadcaster for historically Black universities and colleges, died on May 13 following an illness. Neal was one of the leading architects of modern HBCU sports. His commitment to sharing the excellence and historic relevance of Black athletes helped propel HBCUs into mainstream sports.
HBCU Go CEO Curtis Symonds told HBCU Legends, “Charlie was underrated for his impact on sports. I consider him the ‘John Madden’ of Black College Sports. He was a historian who had lived it and could give you context no other announcer could. Our BET broadcast was so real because he told the real story.” During his career, Neal called games for BET for 24 years before moving to ESPNU, the MEAC Digital Network, and HBCU GO.
Jason Collins
Former NBA center Jason Collins, who made history as the first NBA player to come out as gay, died following medical complications from a brain tumor. “We are heartbroken to share that Jason Collins, our beloved husband, son, brother and uncle, has died after a valiant fight with glioblastoma,” Collins’ family wrote in a statement obtained by CBS Sports. “Jason changed lives in unexpected ways and was an inspiration to all who knew him and to those who admired him from afar. We are grateful for the exceptional medical care Jason received from his doctors and nurses.” Collins came out in 2013, making history within the sports world.
Brandon Clarke
The basketball world mourned the loss of Brandon Clarke after the Memphis Grizzlies player died on May 11 at age 29. The Grizzlies and his agency, Priority Sports, confirmed his death. An official cause has not been released.
In recent years, injuries limited his playing time, including knee and calf issues that sidelined him much of the 2025-26 season. Teammates and coaches frequently praised his leadership and positive presence in the locker room and Memphis community. “We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke,” the Grizzlies stated. “Brandon was an outstanding teammate and an even better person whose impact on the organization and the greater Memphis community will not be forgotten.”
Afrika Bambaataa
Hip-hop pioneer Afrika Bambaataa died on April 9 following complications with cancer at age 67. The founder of the Universal Zulu Nation helped shape hip-hop’s early identity as a global movement rooted in peace, unity, love, and fun. His vision transformed the Bronx into the birthplace of a culture that now reaches every corner of the world.
“Through his music, leadership, and influence, he contributed to the foundation of Hip Hop’s core principles, inspiring generations of MCs, DJs, breakers, and cultural leaders,” the Hip-Hop Alliance stated. “His imprint on Hip Hop history is undeniable and will forever remain part of the culture’s origin story.” The organization also acknowledged that his legacy is complex and has been the subject of serious conversations within the community.
Kiki Shepard
Actress, dancer, and model Kiki Shepard passed away on March 16 after suffering a heart attack at age 74. Best known as co-host of “Showtime at The Apollo” from 1987 to 2002, Shepard also appeared in television series, including “A Different World,” “Baywatch,” and “NYPD Blue.”
Oliver “Power” Grant
Oliver “Power” Grant, the businessman behind the Wu Tang Clan, passed away on February 23 at age 53. Grant was critical in helping the Staten Island rap collective secure funding and studio time during production of their first album, “Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers).” He also launched WuWear, the group’s clothing line in the mid 1990s. Method Man posted a tribute on Instagram: “Paradise my Brother safe Travels!! 💔💔🤬 #pookie #power Bruh I am not ok.”
LaMonte McLemore
Singer LaMonte McLemore passed away on February 3 at his Las Vegas home after suffering a stroke at age 90. The St. Louis native was a founding member of the soul group The 5th Dimension, who won Record of the Year GRAMMY awards for their 1967 single “Up, Up and Away” and the 1969 mash-up “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In” from the Broadway musical “Hair.” McLemore was also a talented photographer whose work frequently appeared in magazines.
Billy “Bass” Nelson
Billy “Bass” Nelson, the founding bass player for the legendary band Parliament-Funkadelic, passed away on January 31 at age 75. Born William Nelson Jr., the New Jersey native met George Clinton as a teenager and was asked to be part of the band that played for Clinton’s doo-wop group the Parliaments in the 1950s. Nelson helped take the band in a new direction in the late 1960s, infusing funk and rock into their sound and swapping suits for bolder fashion choices. After leaving in the late 1970s, he played with Jermaine Jackson, Lionel Richie, and Smokey Robinson.
Demond Wilson
Actor Demond Wilson passed away on January 30 in his California home due to complications related to cancer. Wilson was best known for his role on the hit 1970s NBC sitcom “Sanford & Son,” playing Lamont Sanford, son of Redd Foxx’s character Fred Sanford. A spokesperson for Wilson called him “a devoted father, actor, author, and minister.” “Demond lived a life rooted in faith, service, and compassion. Through his work on screen, his writing, and his ministry, he sought to uplift others and leave a meaningful impact on the communities he served.”
Sly Dunbar
Reggae musician Lowell “Sly” Dunbar passed away at his home in Kingston, Jamaica, on January 26 at age 73. Sly’s daughter Natasha Dunbar confirmed the news. One half of the duo Sly & Robbie, Dunbar’s drumming is featured on tracks for reggae artists like Jimmy Cliff and Peter Tosh, as well as Grace Jones and The Rolling Stones. “Sly helped shape the sound of reggae and Jamaican music for generations. His extraordinary talent, innovation, and lasting contributions will never be forgotten,” his family shared. The cause of his death is unknown.
Dr. Gladys West
Dr. Gladys West, one of the hidden figures and mathematicians integral to creating the mathematical foundation for modern GPS, died on January 17 at age 95. West worked at the Naval Surface Warfare Center, calculating precise models of Earth’s shape that became the basis for modern GPS calculations. She was the second Black woman hired at the base and fourth Black person overall. In 2018, she was inducted into the Air Force Space and Missile Pioneers Hall of Fame. In 2021, she received a Webby Lifetime Achievement Award, the Prince Philip Medal from the United Kingdom’s Royal Academy of Engineering, and the National Museum of the Surface Navy’s Freedom of the Seas Exploration and Innovation Award.
John Forté
Recording artist John Forté passed away on January 12 at his Massachusetts home at age 50. The musician and rapper is best known for his collaborations with The Fugees, including his work as co-writer and producer on tracks from their Grammy-winning album “The Score.”
Claudette Colvin
Civil rights activist Claudette Colvin passed away on January 13 in Texas at age 86. On March 2, 1955, a then-15-year-old Colvin was arrested for refusing a driver’s order to give up her seat for a white woman on a segregated bus in Montgomery, Alabama—nine months before Rosa Parks’s similar refusal sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott. In 2021, an Alabama judge expunged Colvin’s juvenile court records, recognizing “what has since been recognized as a courageous act on her behalf and on behalf of a community of affected people.”
T.K. Carter
Actor T.K. Carter was found dead in his California home on January 9 at age 69. The New York City native got his start in standup but was best known for his roles in the 1980s sitcom “Punky Brewster” and the 1982 horror film “The Thing.”
Elle Simone Scott
Chef, author, and food stylist Elle Simone Scott passed away on January 5 at age 49 after a battle with ovarian cancer. Scott made history in 2016 when she became the first Black woman to join the cast of PBS cooking show “America’s Test Kitchen.” Chef Carla Hall shared a touching tribute on Instagram, calling her “a friend, a force and a trailblazer.” “She didn’t just test recipes; she changed what representation looked like in food media,” Hall wrote.
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