The culture lost remarkable people in 2026. Actors and athletes, musicians and activists—figures who shaped entertainment, sports, and the broader arc of American life. Their deaths leave gaps that won’t be filled. What follows is our remembrance of those we said goodbye to this year.
Samuel Monroe Jr.
Samuel Monroe Jr. died on August 26 from complications related to meningitis and MRSA pneumonia. The actor was best known for “Menace II Society,” the landmark 1993 film that became essential viewing. His credits also included “Tales from the Hood” and “The Players Club”—roles that positioned him within a specific moment of Black cinema that felt urgent and real.
His mother, Joyce Patton, confirmed the news on Facebook. “I want to thank all of my facebook family and friends new and old for praying for Samuel Monroe, Jr., my son. But today God called him home. Please honor my final request to pray for the family especially his 3 children,” she wrote.
Monroe was 52.
Michael Wright
Michael Wright died on August 19 in Los Angeles after suffering heart failure complicated by Marchiafava-Bignami, a rare neurological disease affecting the brain’s corpus callosum. He was 70.
The New York native appeared in over 50 films and television shows. Most remember him as Eddie King Jr. in “The Five Heartbeats” (1991), the film that became a touchstone. He also starred opposite Wesley Snipes in “Sugar Hill” and worked with Chris Tucker in “Money Talks.” His filmography was substantial and deliberate.
His co-star Leon posted an Instagram tribute: “We made History together, we were honored together, you made your mark and for that you will be remembered, my friend. Michael Wright RIP.”
He’s survived by his wife, Susan Wright, his daughter, and stepchildren.
O.J. Brigance
O.J. Brigance died after a long battle with ALS. He was 56.
The Baltimore Ravens icon began his NFL career with Miami in 1996 but found his legacy in Baltimore. In 2001, he executed the opening tackle of the franchise’s first Super Bowl championship. He remains the only athlete to win both a CFL Grey Cup and an NFL Super Bowl for the same city.
After his ALS diagnosis in 2007, Brigance and his wife, Chanda, established the Brigance Brigade Foundation to support individuals living with the disease. Off the field, that work defined him as much as his play ever did.
Butch Huskey
Former New York Mets slugger Butch Huskey died at 54. He spent most of his seven-year MLB career with the Mets, though he also played for Seattle, Boston, and Minnesota. His best season came in 1997, when he hit 24 home runs and drove in 81 runs.
Huskey was one of the last players allowed to wear No. 42 after MLB retired it league-wide in Jackie Robinson’s honor.
Hal Williams
Hal Williams, the veteran actor best known for “Sanford and Son,” “Private Benjamin,” and most notably “227” opposite Marla Gibbs, died in his California home on July 15. No official cause was released. He was 91 and survived by three children.
Victor Willis
Victor Willis, the lead voice of the Village People, died June 30 from a short, aggressive illness. He was 74, one day before his 75th birthday.
Willis wasn’t just a singer—he was the sound of disco’s boldest moment. His vocals powered “Y.M.C.A.,” “Macho Man,” and “In the Navy,” songs that transformed the Village People into a global phenomenon of costumes, choreography, and unfiltered cultural expression.
Born in Texas and raised in the church, Willis found his voice in gospel before moving to Broadway. That foundation led him to the Village People, a group that blurred the line between satire and celebration. He rejoined in 2017 and continued performing the music that defined an era. Most recently, “Y.M.C.A.” became a political soundtrack, used at Donald Trump’s rallies and 2025 inauguration—a strange coda to a legacy he helped create.
Tay Keith
GRAMMY-nominated producer Tay Keith died on June 18. Born Brytavious Lakeith Chambers, he was found unresponsive in his Nashville apartment during a wellness check. No foul play is suspected, though his death remains unclassified pending autopsy results. He was 29.
Keith rose to fame working with Travis Scott, Drake, and Sexyy Red—names that speak to his reach across hip-hop. His family released a statement: “Tay Keith was a visionary producer, songwriter, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and cultural force who helped define the sound of a generation. From Memphis to the global stage, his work shaped countless hit records and left a lasting impact on music and culture.”
Talay Riley
Grammy-winning British songwriter Talay Riley died at 35 after a fatal stabbing in east London. Real name Mark Orabiyi, Riley was pronounced dead despite paramedic efforts. A second man was also injured. Three people were arrested on suspicion of murder; two were later released without charge and another was released on bail pending further inquiries.
Riley was one of Britain’s most accomplished songwriters, earning a Grammy for his work on H.E.R.’s catalogue and writing for Britney Spears, Usher, Khalid, and others. He left behind a legacy that stretched far beyond the recording studio, earning tributes from across the music industry and deep respect from those who worked alongside him.
Stacey King
Stacey King, a three-time NBA champion with the Chicago Bulls, died on June 7 at age 59. No cause was disclosed. The former sixth overall pick in the 1989 NBA Draft helped the Bulls win championships in 1991, 1992, and 1993 alongside Michael Jordan. He played eight NBA seasons with five teams before becoming one of the franchise’s most recognizable broadcasters, 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
Grammy-winning R&B singer Peabo Bryson died on June 2 at age 75, surrounded by family, after suffering a stroke. Over five decades, his voice helped define some of Disney’s most beloved songs. “Beauty and the Beast” with Celine Dion and “A Whole New World” with Regina Belle became Grammy-winning classics. He also scored solo hits including “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 bassist of The Commodores, died at 75. His daughter, Soraya LaPread, announced his death online without disclosing a cause. “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.” He had lived in Auckland, New Zealand, for decades after leaving the group. Former bandmate Lionel Richie paid tribute to him.
Foster Sylvers
R&B singer Foster Sylvers died on May 30 from pancreatic cancer. The Memphis native rose to fame 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.” The song has since been sampled by artists including West Coast rapper The D.O.C. on his 1989 hit “It’s Funky Enough.” Foster Sylvers was 64.
Sonny Rollins
Sonny Rollins, the “Saxophone Colossus,” died on May 25 at his New York home. He was 95. Widely regarded as one of jazz’s greatest improvisers, Rollins shaped bebop and hard bop through landmark recordings including “Saxophone Colossus,” “Way Out West,” and “The Bridge.” Over six decades, he performed with 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, Martin Luther King Jr.’s adviser, lawyer, and speechwriter, died on May 22 in Cupertino, California, at age 95. Jones helped craft the “I Have a Dream” speech and played a central role in the civil rights movement as King’s strategist and confidant. He smuggled King’s “Letter from Birmingham Jail” from prison and contributed 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 President Joe Biden.
Rob Base
Rob Base died on May 22 after a cancer battle. Born Robert Ginyard, the New York rapper 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 honored him on Instagram: “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.” Rob Base was 59.
Sherman Lewis
On May 15, Sherman Lewis, the longtime NFL assistant coach, died 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. As an offensive assistant, he won four Super Bowls—three with San Francisco and one with Green Bay. Lewis was widely credited for his leadership, innovation, and mentorship 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. Clarence 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.”
Born in Alabama, Carter was a self-taught guitarist after receiving one for Christmas. Best known for “Patches” and “Strokin’,” he entered music determined to distinguish himself as a blind guitarist with a powerful voice. He rose to prominence in the 1970s and 1980s for suggestive lyrics and groovy production.
Charlie Neal
On May 13, legendary sports broadcaster for HBCUs Charlie Neal died 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 visibility.
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. He was a proven product because he’s lived it, and he would give you history and give you anything that no one else could give you. No other announcer could give it to you like Charlie Neal.”
During his career, Neal called games for BET for 24 years before moving to ESPNU, MEAC Digital Network, and HBCU GO.
Jason Collins
Former NBA center Jason Collins, the first NBA player to come out as gay, died from complications related to glioblastoma. “We are heartbroken to share that Jason Collins, our beloved husband, son, brother and uncle, has died after a valiant fight with glioblastoma,” his family stated. “Jason changed lives in unexpected ways and was an inspiration to all who knew him and to those who admired him from afar.”
Collins came out in 2013, making history within the sports world.
Brandon Clarke
The basketball world mourned Brandon Clarke after the Memphis Grizzlies player died on May 11 at age 29. No official cause was released. Recent years saw injuries limit his playing time, including knee and calf issues that sidelined him during the 2025-26 season.
The Grizzlies released a statement: “We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke. Brandon was an outstanding teammate and an even better person whose impact on the organization and the greater Memphis community will not be forgotten. We express our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
Afrika Bambaataa
On April 9, hip-hop pioneer Afrika Bambaataa was reported dead from cancer complications. He was 67. The Hip-Hop Alliance confirmed his passing via Instagram statement.
“As the founder of the Universal Zulu Nation, Afrika Bambaataa helped shape the early identity of Hip Hop as a global movement rooted in peace, unity, love, and having fun. His vision transformed the Bronx into the birthplace of a culture that now reaches every corner of the world.”
The statement acknowledged complexity: “At the same time, we recognize that his legacy is complex and has been the subject of serious conversations within our community. As an organization committed to truth, accountability, and the preservation of Hip Hop culture, we believe it is important to hold space for all voices while continuing to uplift what empowers and protects the people.”
Kiki Shepard
Actress, dancer, and model Kiki Shepard died on March 16 from a heart attack. She was 74. Best known as co-host of “Showtime at The Apollo” from 1987 to 2002, Shepard appeared in television series including “A Different World,” “Baywatch,” and “NYPD Blue.”
Oliver “Power” Grant
Oliver “Power” Grant, the businessman behind Wu-Tang Clan, died on February 23 at 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 the group’s WuWear 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 died on February 3 at his Las Vegas home after suffering a stroke. He was 90. The St. Louis native was a founding member of The 5th Dimension, who won Record of the Year GRAMMYs for their 1967 single “Up, Up and Away” and the 1969 mash-up “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In.”
Beyond music, McLemore was a talented photographer whose work appeared in magazines.
Billy “Bass” Nelson
Billy “Bass” Nelson, the founding bass player for Parliament-Funkadelic, died on January 31 at age 75. Born William Nelson Jr., the New Jersey native met George Clinton as a teenager and helped take the band in a new direction in the late 1960s, infusing funk and rock into their sound.
After leaving in the late 1970s, Nelson played with Jermaine Jackson, Lionel Richie, and Smokey Robinson.
Demond Wilson
Actor Demond Wilson died on January 30 in his California home from cancer complications. He was best known for “Sanford & Son,” the hit 1970s NBC sitcom where he played Lamont Sanford, son of Redd Foxx’s grouchy Fred Sanford.
Mark Goldman, Wilson’s spokesperson, 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 died at his home in Kingston, Jamaica, on January 26 at age 73. His daughter, Natasha Dunbar, confirmed the news. One half of Sly & Robbie, Dunbar’s drumming appeared on tracks for Jimmy Cliff, Peter Tosh, Grace Jones, and The Rolling Stones.
His family shared a statement: “Sly helped shape the sound of reggae and Jamaican music for generations. His extraordinary talent, innovation, and lasting contributions will never be forgotten. Sly’s music, spirit, and legacy touched people around the world, and we are deeply grateful for the love and support during this difficult time.” The cause of death was unknown.
Dr. Gladys West
Dr. Gladys West, one of the mathematicians who created the mathematical foundation for the modern GPS system, died on January 17 at age 95. West worked at the Naval Surface Warfare Center for years, calculating precise models of Earth’s shape—the basis of what modern GPS calculations were built on. She was the second Black woman hired at the base and the 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. Her death was announced via social media as occurring “peacefully alongside her family and friends and is now in heaven with her loved ones.” The cause was not disclosed.
John Forté
Recording artist John Forté died on January 12 at his Massachusetts home at age 50. The musician and rapper is best known for his work as co-writer and producer on The Fugees’ classic, Grammy-winning album “The Score.”
Claudette Colvin
Civil rights activist Claudette Colvin died on January 13 in Texas at age 86. On March 2, 1955, a then-15-year-old Colvin was arrested for refusing to give up her bus seat for a white woman on a segregated Montgomery, Alabama bus—nine months before Rosa Parks’s similar refusal sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott.
In 2021, an Alabama judge expunged Colvin’s juvenile court records for “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 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 died on January 5 from ovarian cancer at age 49. Scott made history in 2016 when she became the first Black woman to join the cast of PBS’s “America’s Test Kitchen.”
Chef Carla Hall shared a touching tribute on Instagram: “She didn’t just test recipes; she changed what representation looked like in food media.”
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