2025 was a difficult year for the culture. Now, as we move through 2026, we continue to honor those we’ve lost—legends from film, music, sports, and civil rights whose contributions shaped the world we live in. From household names to quiet architects of change, each left an undeniable mark.
Black Legends we’ve lost this year span generations and disciplines, reminding us that cultural impact takes many forms. Some dominated the screen. Others moved us through song. A few changed how we think about justice and equality. Though they are gone, their work endures. Here we remember those who passed in 2026.
Michael Wright
Actor Michael Wright, best known for his role in “The Five Heartbeats” (1991), died on August 19 in Los Angeles after suffering heart failure complicated by a rare brain condition called Marchiafava-Bignami disease, which damages the area of the brain connecting its two halves. He was 70.
The New York native appeared in over 50 films and television shows. His filmography included “Sugar Hill” opposite Wesley Snipes in 1994 and “Money Talks” with Chris Tucker in 1997. But it was his role as Eddie King Jr. in “The Five Heartbeats” that remained his most memorable. Co-star Leon paid tribute to him on Instagram, writing: “We made History together, we were honored together, you made your mark and for that you will be remembered, my friend.”
Wright is survived by his wife, Susan, as well as a daughter and stepchildren.
O.J. Brigance
Baltimore Ravens icon O.J. Brigance died after a long battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). He was 56.
Brigance began his NFL career with the Miami Dolphins in 1996 but found his home in Baltimore, where he helped secure the franchise’s first Super Bowl championship in 2001. He executed the opening tackle of that game—a moment that cemented his place in Ravens history. Brigance remains the only athlete in football history to win both a CFL Grey Cup and an NFL Super Bowl title for the same city.
Off the field, the Texas native left an unforgettable philanthropic mark. Following his ALS diagnosis in 2007, he and his wife, Chanda, established the Brigance Brigade Foundation to “equip, encourage, and empower” individuals living with the disease. That work continued for nearly two decades.
Butch Huskey
Former New York Mets slugger Butch Huskey died at 54, leaving behind a career remembered for both his power at the plate and his connection to Jackie Robinson’s legacy. Huskey spent most of his seven-year MLB career with the Mets, though he also played 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 runs. He also became one of the last players allowed to wear No. 42 after MLB retired it league-wide in Robinson’s honor. That distinction placed Huskey in a unique historical lineage.
Hal Williams
“Sanford and Son” star and veteran actor Hal Williams died inside his California home on July 15. The cause of death has not been disclosed. Williams, known for roles in “Private Benjamin,” “The Waltons,” and most notably “227” alongside Marla Gibbs, was 91. He is survived by three children.
Victor Willis
Victor Willis, the lead voice of the Village People and the man behind one of the most recognizable hooks in pop history, died on June 30 at 74 after a short, aggressive illness. For generations, Willis wasn’t just a singer—he was the sound of disco’s boldest, most celebratory era.
His vocals powered “Y.M.C.A.,” “Macho Man,” and “In the Navy,” songs that transformed the Village People into a global spectacle of choreography, costumes and pure cultural flash. Born in Texas and raised in the church, Willis first found his voice in gospel before moving into Broadway, where performance became second nature. That path eventually led to the creation of a group that blurred the line between satire, celebration and pop perfection.
He rejoined the group in 2017, continuing to perform the music that defined an era. Most recently, the band faced controversy after “Y.M.C.A.” became a theme song for President Donald Trump’s political rallies and 2025 inauguration. Willis died one day before his 75th birthday.
Tay Keith
GRAMMY-nominated hip-hop producer Tay Keith died on June 18. Born Brytavious Lakeith Chambers, he rose to fame working with industry heavyweights like Travis Scott, Drake, and Sexyy Red. He was found unresponsive in his Nashville apartment during a wellness check on June 18.
According to a statement from the Metro Nashville Police Department, no foul play is suspected, but his death remains unclassified pending autopsy results. His family remembers him as an artist and entrepreneur who left an indelible mark on the music business.
“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,” his family told PEOPLE. He was 29 years old.
Talay Riley
Talay Riley, the Grammy-winning British singer-songwriter whose work shaped hits for artists including Britney Spears, Usher, Khalid and H.E.R., died at age 35 following a fatal stabbing in east London.
Riley, whose real name was Mark Orabiyi, was pronounced dead despite paramedics’ efforts to revive him. A second man was also injured. 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.
Known as one of Britain’s most accomplished songwriters, Riley earned a Grammy for his contributions to H.E.R.’s award-winning work and wrote songs for some of pop and R&B’s biggest names. Tributes poured in from across the music industry, while family members remembered 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 later became one of the franchise’s most recognizable broadcasters, died at age 59 on June 7. No cause of death was disclosed by the team.
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, becoming known for his energetic style and signature catchphrases. King spent nearly two decades as the Bulls’ television analyst, earning the affection of 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 at age 75 on June 2, 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, though a cause was not disclosed.
“We were the best daddy daughter duo. If you know me you know my Dad,” she wrote. “I am devastated. A piece of me is gone from this world.”
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 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 after a battle with pancreatic cancer, his brother Leon 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 West Coast rapper The D.O.C. on his 1989 hit “It’s Funky Enough.” Foster Sylvers was 64 years old.
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 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 because of 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. He helped smuggle King’s “Letter from Birmingham Jail” from jail 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 former President Joe Biden.
Rob Base
Rob Base died on May 22 after a battle with cancer. Born Robert Ginyard in New York City, he performed alongside DJ E-Z Rock. The duo was best known for their late-1980s hits “Joy and Pain” and “It Takes Two.”
His loved ones shared a touching tribute on social media, honoring his contributions to hip-hop and his dedication to 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.” Rob Base was 59 years old.
Sherman Lewis
Longtime NFL assistant coach Sherman Lewis died on May 15 at age 83 after a career spanning decades across the sport. 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 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 and paid tribute: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend Clarence Carter. He recorded many of his greatest hits at FAME Studios 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 became a self-taught guitarist after receiving the instrument for Christmas. Best known for hits like “Patches” and “Strokin’,” he entered the music industry determined to set himself apart as a blind guitarist with a killer voice. Carter rose to prominence in the ’70s and ’80s for his suggestive lyrics and groovy production.
Charlie Neal
On May 13, legendary sports broadcaster for historically Black universities and colleges Charlie Neal died following an illness. Neal was one of the leading architects of modern HBCU sports broadcasting. His commitment to sharing the excellence and historic relevance of Black athletes 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 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.”
Collins came out in 2013, becoming a watershed moment in professional sports.
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, Priority Sports, confirmed his death in separate statements. An official cause has not 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 Memphis.
“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
On April 9, hip-hop pioneer Afrika Bambaataa died following complications with cancer at age 67. The news was confirmed in a statement posted by the Hip-Hop Alliance 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,” it read. “His vision transformed the Bronx into the birthplace of a culture that now reaches every corner of the world.”
The statement acknowledged the complexity of his legacy: “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 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 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 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,” both from the Broadway musical “Hair.”
Beyond music, McLemore was also a talented photographer whose work frequently appeared in magazines.
Billy “Bass” Nelson
Billy “Bass” Nelson, the founding bass player for Parliament-Funkadelic, passed away on January 31 at age 75. Born William Nelson Jr., the New Jersey native met George Clinton as a teenager. Clinton asked him to be part of the band that played for his doo-wop singing group the Parliaments in the 1950s.
Nelson is credited with helping to redirect the band’s sound in the late 1960s, infusing funk and rock while ditching the suits for bolder fashion choices. After leaving the group in the late 1970s, Nelson played with other major music acts, including 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.
In a statement shared with NBC, a 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 passed away at his home in Kingston, Jamaica on January 26 at age 73. Sly’s daughter Natasha confirmed the news. One half of the group Sly & Robbie, Dunbar’s drumming appears 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 family shared. “His extraordinary talent, innovation, and lasting contributions will never be forgotten. Sly’s music, spirit, and legacy touched people around the world.” The cause of death remains unknown.
Dr. Gladys West
Dr. Gladys West, one of the hidden figures and mathematicians who played an integral role in creating the mathematical foundation for modern GPS, died on January 17 at age 95. West spent years working at the Naval Surface Warfare Center, calculating precise models of Earth’s shape—work that became the basis for modern GPS calculations.
Her hiring at the base made her the second Black woman employed there 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 through a post on her official page, which noted she passed “peacefully alongside her family and friends and is now in heaven with her loved ones.”
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 a co-writer and producer of tracks for their classic, Grammy-winning album “The Score.”
Claudette Colvin
Civil rights activist Black Legends 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 launched the Montgomery Bus Boycott.
In 2021, Colvin was vindicated when an Alabama judge expunged her 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 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 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 the popular PBS cooking show “America’s Test Kitchen.”
Chef Carla Hall shared a touching tribute on Instagram, calling Scott “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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