2025 took a toll, and now as we move through 2026, the losses continue. The culture has lost some remarkable people this year—artists, athletes, pioneers, and voices that shaped how we live, listen, and move through the world. While they’re no longer here, their work endures.
We’re reflecting on Black legends we lost in 2026, from the stages and courts to the studio booths and history books. From actors to athletes, producers to protest leaders, each left an unmistakable mark on culture.
Toukie Smith
Toukie Smith, the model and actress best known for playing Eva Rawley on NBC’s sitcom “227,” died on Nov. 4 following a long battle with multiple sclerosis. She was 74. Her children, twins Airyn and Julian De Niro—whom she shared with actor Robert De Niro—confirmed her death and remembered her as a “force of nature” in a statement to Page Six, adding that she was a trailblazer whose beauty and presence helped open doors for Black models and designers.
Smith began modeling in 1972, working with fashion houses including Givenchy, Thierry Mugler, and Issey Miyake. Bloomingdale’s named her Model of the Year in 1978. Her career extended to film and television, including appearances in “Miami Vice,” “I Like It Like That,” and “The Preacher’s Wife.”
Kimmarie Johnson
Actress and model Kimmarie Johnson, known for appearing in “Beverly Hills, 90210” and the 2000 comedy “Dude, Where’s My Car?,” died on Nov. 4 at age 50. Her niece, Rhonda Scott, confirmed the death and shared that Johnson had suffered a medical emergency at her Los Angeles home, leading to hospitalization and a diagnosis of what she described as a “heart aneurysm condition.” An official cause of death has yet to be confirmed.
Beyond acting, Johnson worked as a model and producer, and founded the skincare brand SkinGlow by Kimmarie. Her niece remembered her as someone who radiated positivity and light.
Juan Atkins
Juan Atkins, widely regarded as one of the pioneers of Detroit techno, died on Oct. 31 at age 64. His management confirmed his death after he was found unresponsive in his Mexico City hotel room ahead of a scheduled performance. No official cause of death has been announced.
As a member of The Belleville Three alongside Derrick May and Kevin Saunderson, Atkins helped establish techno as a global phenomenon through his work with Cybotron and his project Model 500. His groundbreaking influence as one of the architects of Detroit techno shaped dance music worldwide.
Sam Chatman
On Oct. 22, Chicago DJ Sam Chatman, affectionately known as the “Godfather of Steppin’,” died at age 85 from natural causes. His family confirmed his death, remembering him as a devoted husband, father, and proud West Sider whose presence and wisdom shaped their family and community.
Chatman helped popularize Chicago’s steppin’ dance culture after coining the phrase “Step on!” in the 1970s, which eventually inspired the name of the dance style. His influence extended far beyond the DJ booth, transforming the Chicago-born tradition into a cultural phenomenon across the country and around the world.
Allen Bailey
Former NFL defensive end Allen Bailey, who spent eight seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs before finishing his career with the Atlanta Falcons, was found dead in his Florida home on Oct. 20 at age 37. His wife discovered him, and his family told BlkCosmo Sports they believe he died of natural causes, though an official cause has not been released.
Drafted by the Chiefs in the third round of the 2011 NFL Draft, Bailey played in 133 regular-season games, recording 22 sacks and 40 tackles for loss. Chiefs head coach Andy Reid remembered him as one of his favorite players, while quarterback Patrick Mahomes praised him as a dependable teammate who helped hold the locker room together.
Verne Allison
Verne Allison, a founding member of the legendary R&B group The Dells, passed away on Oct. 6 at age 90. His son, Verne “V.A.” Allison Jr., announced his passing alongside his sister Sheila Allison Moore, confirming he died of natural causes.
Allison helped form The Dells, originally known as the El-Rays, with high school friends in 1953. He contributed to the group’s signature harmonies and songwriting, including tracks like “Dry Your Eyes” and “Moving On.” The Dells scored multiple hits, including “Oh What a Night” and “Stay In My Corner,” and were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2004.
Freddie Jackson
R&B singer Freddie Jackson passed away on Oct. 5 at age 70. Known for romantic ballads like “You Are My Lady” and “Rock Me Tonight,” his smooth voice became synonymous with quiet storm playlists since the mid-1980s. Jackson was diagnosed with kidney disease in 2004.
His family confirmed the news via his official Instagram account, sharing a statement that captured his impact: “Freddie was more than a legendary voice. He was a kind, generous soul who loved his fans, his family, his friends, and his music with everything he had. For decades, he gave us the songs that became the soundtrack to our love stories, our celebrations, and our most treasured memories.”
Sister Betsy Jean Farrakhan
Sister Betsy Jean Farrakhan, the eldest daughter of Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan and the late Mother Khadijah Farrakhan, passed away at age 72. The Nation of Islam confirmed her death.
She was known for decades of service to the Nation of Islam, particularly through agriculture and youth education. In 2016, she received the organization’s first Farmer of the Year honor for her farming work in Michigan and efforts to encourage young people to pursue agriculture. She also held leadership roles in Muslim Girls Training. Her cause of death was not publicly disclosed.
Cassandra Wilson
Grammy Award-winning jazz singer Cassandra Wilson passed away in Jackson, Mississippi, on Sept. 1 at age 70. Her manager confirmed she died peacefully at home, surrounded by family, close friends, and her manager.
Wilson recorded 19 solo studio albums and worked with some of the industry’s top artists, including The Roots, Wynton Marsalis, and Elvis Costello. Time magazine called her “America’s Best Singer” in 2001.
Jon Batiste paid tribute to her on Instagram, writing: “She had an unmistakable vocal tone, phrasing and her approach of weaving folkloric, R&B and diasporic music together with experimental and popular genres had a major impact on me. She sounded like the South. Her Mississippi heritage was always present in everything no matter how expansive her artistry evolved.”
Carla Jeffery
Carla Jeffery, an actress known for her work on Disney Channel productions including “ZOMBIES,” died at age 33. Her management announced the death on Instagram.
“For more than 20 years, we had the privilege of watching her grow into a beautiful, vibrant, and incredibly talented woman whose radiant smile could light up any room,” her team said in a statement. “Carla was more than a client; she was family.”
Her career spanned acting and entertainment, leaving behind work remembered by viewers who grew up watching Disney Channel.
Samuel Monroe Jr.
Actor Samuel Monroe Jr. died on Aug. 26 due to complications from meningitis and MRSA pneumonia. Monroe was best known for his role in the 1993 film “Menace II Society,” but appeared in other roles including “Tales from the Hood” and “The Players Club.” He was 52 years old.
His mother, Joyce Patton, confirmed the news in a Facebook post, thanking fans and friends for their support and asking people to pray for his three children.
Michael Wright
Actor Michael Wright, best known for his role in “The Five Heartbeats” (1991), died on Aug. 19 in Los Angeles at age 70. He passed away after suffering heart failure mixed with complications of Marchiafava-Bignami, a rare neurological disease that damages the brain.
The New York native starred in over 50 movies and TV shows, including “Sugar Hill” opposite Wesley Snipes and “Money Talks” with Chris Tucker. His most memorable role was Eddie King Jr. in “The Five Heartbeats,” a film his co-star Leon said made history.
“We made History together, we were honored together, you made your mark and for that you will be remembered, my friend,” Leon wrote in an Instagram tribute.
Wright is survived by his wife, Susan, his daughter, and stepchildren.
O.J. Brigance
O.J. Brigance, an icon of the Baltimore Ravens, died after a long battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) at age 56. Brigance began his NFL career with the Miami Dolphins in 1996 but found his home in Baltimore after helping secure the franchise’s first Super Bowl championship in 2001. He executed the game’s opening tackle and remains the only athlete in football history to win both a CFL Grey Cup and an NFL Super Bowl title for the same city.
Following his ALS diagnosis in 2007, Brigance and his wife, Chanda, established the Brigance Brigade Foundation to “equip, encourage, and empower” individuals living with the disease.
Butch Huskey
Former New York Mets slugger Butch Huskey died at age 54. Huskey spent most of his seven-year MLB career with the Mets, also playing for the Seattle Mariners, Boston Red Sox, and Minnesota Twins. His best season came in 1997, when he hit 24 home runs and drove in 81. He was one of the last players allowed to wear No. 42 after MLB retired it league-wide in Jackie Robinson’s honor.
Hal Williams
“Sanford and Son” star and veteran actor Hal Williams died inside his California home on July 15 at age 91. No official cause has been disclosed. Williams, known for roles in shows like “Private Benjamin,” “The Waltons,” and most notably “227,” starring opposite Marla Gibbs, is survived by his three children.
Victor Willis
Victor Willis, the lead voice of the Village People and the man behind one of pop music’s most recognizable hooks, died June 30 at age 74 after a short, aggressive illness. For generations, Willis wasn’t just a singer—he was the sound of disco’s boldest era. His vocals powered “Y.M.C.A.,” “Macho Man,” and “In the Navy,” songs that turned the Village People into a global spectacle.
Born in Texas and raised in the church, Willis first found his voice in gospel before moving into Broadway. That path eventually led him to help create the Village People, a group that blurred the line between satire, celebration, and pop perfection. He rejoined the group in 2017 and continued performing the music that defined an era. The band faced controversy when “Y.M.C.A.” became a theme song for political rallies and the 2025 presidential inauguration.
Willis died one day before his 75th birthday.
Tay Keith
GRAMMY-nominated hip-hop producer Tay Keith died on June 18 at age 29. He rose to fame working with industry heavyweights like Travis Scott, Drake, and Sexyy Red.
Born Brytavious Lakeith Chambers, Keith was found unresponsive in his Nashville apartment during a wellness check. The Metro Nashville Police Department said no foul play is suspected, but his death remains unclassified until autopsy results are complete.
His family released a statement describing him as “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
Talay Riley, the Grammy-winning British singer-songwriter whose work helped shape hits for artists including Britney Spears, Usher, Khalid, and H.E.R., died at age 35 after a fatal stabbing in east London.
Riley, real name Mark Orabiyi, was pronounced dead despite efforts by paramedics. Police said a second man was injured, and investigations remain ongoing. Three people were arrested on suspicion of murder, though two were later released without further action and another was released on bail pending further inquiries.
As one of Britain’s most accomplished songwriters, Riley earned a Grammy for his contributions to H.E.R.’s work and wrote songs for some of pop and R&B’s biggest stars. His family remembered him for his talent, generosity, and impact.
Stacey King
Stacey King, a three-time NBA champion with the Chicago Bulls who later became one of the franchise’s most recognizable broadcasters, died June 7 at age 59. No cause of death was disclosed. King was drafted sixth overall in 1989 out of Oklahoma and helped the Bulls win championships in 1991, 1992, and 1993 alongside Michael Jordan. He played eight NBA seasons with five teams before transitioning to broadcasting, spending nearly two decades as the Bulls’ television analyst and becoming a beloved figure 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 June 2 at age 75 surrounded by family, after suffering a stroke days earlier. Over a career spanning five decades, he 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. Bryson also scored solo hits such as “If Ever You’re in My Arms Again” and “Can You Stop the Rain.” He 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, shared news of his death online, saying a cause of death was not 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 helped shape 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 to him. LaPread had lived in Auckland, New Zealand, for decades following his departure from the group.
Foster Sylvers
R&B singer Foster Sylvers passed away on May 30 at age 64 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 hits in the 1970s, including “Boogie Fever” and “Hot Line.”
In 1973, Foster released a solo album at age 11, which included the single “Misdemeanor.” The song has since been sampled by artists, including rapper The D.O.C. on his 1989 hit “It’s Funky Enough.”
Sonny Rollins
Sonny Rollins, the towering jazz saxophonist known as the “Saxophone Colossus,” died May 25 at his home in New York at age 95. Widely regarded as one of the greatest improvisers in jazz history, Rollins helped shape bebop and hard bop through landmark recordings including “Saxophone Colossus,” “Way Out West,” and “The Bridge.” Over a six-decade career, 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 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 at age 59 after a battle with cancer. The rapper, born Robert Ginyard in New York City, performed with DJ E-Z Rock. The duo was best known for their late-1980s hits, including “Joy and Pain” and “It Takes Two.”
His loved ones shared a touching tribute on social media: “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.”
Sherman Lewis
On May 15, Sherman Lewis, the longtime NFL assistant coach and former college football star, 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. He later 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 an offensive coordinator for multiple teams and was widely credited for his leadership, innovation, and mentoring throughout the league.
Clarence Carter
Southern soul singer Clarence Carter died inside his Decatur, Georgia home on May 13 at age 90. Rodney Hall, president of FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, confirmed his death to Rolling Stone.
“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,” Hall wrote.
Carter was born in Alabama and became a self-taught guitarist after receiving the instrument as a Christmas gift. Best known for hits like “Patches” and “Strokin’,” he entered the music industry determined to set himself apart as a blind guitarist with a powerful voice. He rose to prominence in the 1970s and 1980s for his suggestive lyrics and groovy production.
Charlie Neal
On May 13, legendary sports broadcaster for historically Black universities and colleges (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 for decades helped propel HBCUs into the mainstream sports world.
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, 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,” his family wrote in a statement. “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 outpouring of love and prayers over the past eight months and 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 Clarke’s agency confirmed his death. An official cause has not yet been released.
In recent years, injuries limited his playing time, including knee and calf issues that sidelined him for much of the 2025-26 season. Despite those setbacks, teammates and coaches frequently praised his leadership and positive presence in the locker room and throughout the Memphis community.
“We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke,” the Grizzlies expressed in a statement. “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
On April 9, hip-hop pioneer Afrika Bambaataa died following complications with cancer at age 67. The Hip-Hop Alliance confirmed the news in a statement to Instagram.
“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 read. “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. His imprint on Hip Hop history is undeniable and will forever remain part of the culture’s origin story.”
The organization also acknowledged the complexity of his legacy: “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 passed away on March 16 at age 74 after suffering a heart attack. Best known as co-host of “Showtime at The Apollo” from 1987 to 2002, Shepard made appearances 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 Feb. 23 at age 53. Grant was critical in helping the Staten Island rap collective secure funding and studio time during the 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 to Grant on Instagram, writing: “Paradise my Brother safe Travels!! 💔💔🤬 #pookie #power Bruh I am not ok.”
LaMonte McLemore
Singer LaMonte McLemore passed away on Feb. 3 at his Las Vegas home after having a stroke at age 90. The St. Louis native was one of the founding members 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,” songs from the Broadway musical “Hair.”
In addition to making music, McLemore was also a talented photographer, whose work was frequently featured in magazines.
Billy “Bass” Nelson
Billy “Bass” Nelson, the founding bass player for the legendary band Parliament-Funkadelic, passed away on Jan. 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 the Parliaments in the 1950s. Nelson is credited with helping take the band in a new direction in the late 1960s, infusing funk and rock into their sound and swapping their suits for bolder fashion choices.
After leaving the group in the late 1970s, Nelson went on to play with other major music acts, including Jermaine Jackson, Lionel Richie, and Smokey Robinson.
Demond Wilson
Actor Demond Wilson passed away on Jan. 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.
In a statement shared with NBC, 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,” he wrote.
Sly Dunbar
Reggae musician Lowell “Sly” Dunbar passed away at his home in Kingston, Jamaica, on Jan. 26 at age 73 after suffering a stroke. One half of the group 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.
His daughter Natasha confirmed the news to BlkCosmo. The family shared a statement saying: “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.”
Dr. Gladys West
Dr. Gladys West, one of the hidden figures and mathematician whose work played an integral part in creating the mathematical foundation for today’s GPS system, died on Jan. 17 at age 95. West worked at the Naval Surface Warfare Center for years, calculating precise models of Earth’s shape that became the basis for modern GPS calculations. With her hire, she became the second Black woman hired at the base and the fourth Black person overall to work there. In 2018, she was inducted into the Air Force Space and Missile Pioneers Hall of Fame, and in 2021, she received a Webby Lifetime Achievement Award, the Prince Philip Medal by 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 made public through a social media post from her official page which stated that West passed away “peacefully alongside her family and friends and is now in heaven with her loved ones.” The cause of death is unknown.
John Forté
Recording artist John Forté passed away on Jan. 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 a co-writer and producer of tracks for their classic, Grammy-winning album “The Score.”
Claudette Colvin
Civil rights activist Claudette Colvin passed away on Jan. 13, 2026, 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 led to the Montgomery Bus Boycott.
In 2021, Colvin was vindicated when an Alabama judge expunged her 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 Jan. 9 at age 69. The New York City native got his start in standup but was best known for his roles in the hit 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 Jan. 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 the popular PBS cooking show “America’s Test Kitchen.”
Chef Carla Hall shared a touching tribute to Scott 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.
Black legends we lost in 2026
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