Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2024
Source: AFP Contributor / Getty
Learn more below about who in our culture has passed away so far this year in 2024 Below
1. Richard D. Parsons
Richard D. Parsons’ tenure as CEO of Time Warner from 2002 to 2007 showcased his exceptional ability to turn around troubled organizations. Stepping into the role amid the fallout of the disastrous AOL-Time Warner merger, Parsons faced one of the toughest challenges in corporate history. With steady hands, he reduced the company’s crippling $30 billion debt to nearly half, streamlined operations, and focused on the firm’s strengths in media and entertainment.
2. Art Evans
Evans’ wife spoke on the passing of her Husband, saying “We are heartbroken to share that Art has passed away. Please respect our privacy at this time. A memorial will be held for friends and family to attend at a later date. Thank you.”
Evans appeared in several movies including Die Hard 2, School Daze, Christine & Tales from the Hood.
3. Aziza “Z” Barnes (Right)
Their family confirmed via a rep that Barnes died of suicide on Dec. 15.
The family released a statement, saying “With heavy hearts, we regret to inform you of the passing of an undeniable and beloved artist, child, sibling, and friend Aziza ‘Z’ Barnes, Z has touched and inspired countless individuals both in their community and industry and will be deeply missed and endlessly loved by all who were fortunate to have experienced their presence and work. An incomparable talent, we look for understanding in Z’s words, and wish comfort and understanding as we grieve this loss.”
4. Rickey Henderson
Rickey Henderson, Baseball Hall of Famer and widely regarded as one of the greatest leadoff hitters and base stealers in Major League Baseball (MLB) history passed away after a bout with pneumonia, days before his 66th Birthday. Known for his speed and on-base abilities, his career stats include a .279 batting average with 297 home runs and 1,115 runs batted in. Henderson holds the MLB records for career stolen bases, runs scored, unintentional walks, and leadoff home runs.
5. Alfa Anderson
Singer Alfa Anderson has passed away. Anderson is a singer and performer best known for her work as a vocalist with the band Chic, which was popular in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Chic, founded by Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards, is famous for hits like “Le Freak” and “Good Times.” Rodgers confirmed Anderson’s passing on his official Instagram account.
6. Hans ‘Prime’ Dobson
Hans ‘Prime’ Dobson was best known for his time on the cultural staple ‘Rap City’—dubbed the longest-running cable music video show to feature rap music.
7. Nikki Giovanni
Poet, activist and educator Nikki Giovanni passed away on December 9 at the age of 81. Cousin Allison Ragan said on behalf of the family, “We will forever feel blessed to have shared a legacy and love with our dear cousin.”
9. Robin Ayers
Radio host Robin Ayers passed away on December 5 at 54. The cause of death is not known at this time.
13. Lou Donaldson
Legendary saxophonist Lou “Sweet Poppa Lou” Donaldson passed away on November 9, 2024 at 98 years old. He is credited for being one of the first to bridge bebop and soul, and is known as a pioneer of the soul-jazz genre. Donaldson, writer of ‘Blues Walk’, is a member of the International Jazz Hall of Fame, an NEA Jazz Master (the nation’s highest award for jazz artists), and much more.
15. Tony Todd
Tony Todd, the immense talent behind the ‘Candyman’ films, has passed away at the age of 69. Known for his towering presence and the deeply resonant voice that could both chill and captivate, Todd leaves behind a legacy that will be cherished by fans and colleagues alike.
Over the years, he amassed a diverse body of work, appearing in critically acclaimed films such as “The Crow,” “The Rock,” and the “Final Destination” series. His turns in “Platoon” and “Night of the Living Dead” further showcased his versatility as an actor, capable of bringing nuance and authenticity to a wide range of characters.
Todd reprised his role as Candyman in “Candyman: Farewell to the Flesh” (1995), “Candyman 3: Day of the Dead” (1999), and the recent sequel “Candyman” (2021). Beyond horror, he made memorable appearances on television shows like “Boston Public,” “Law & Order,” “Smallville,” “Charmed,” “21 Jump Street,” and “Star Trek: The Next Generation.”
16. Tyka Nelson
17. Quincy Jones
Jones’ publicist, Arnold Robinson told several outlets that he died Sunday night at his home in the Bel Air section of Los Angeles, surrounded by his family.
“Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones’ passing,” the family said in a statement. “And although this is an incredible loss for our family, we celebrate the great life that he lived and know there will never be another like him.”
18. Jerrod Mustaf
Mustaf played college basketball at the University of Maryland before being drafted 17th overall by the New York Knicks in the 1990 NBA Draft. Mustaf played in the NBA for the Knicks and Phoenix Suns, and later continued his career in Europe. After retiring, he focused on community activism, particularly working with at-risk youth in Maryland. Mustaf passed away on October 28, 2024, on his 55th birthday.
19. David Harris
Actor David Harris, known for his role in the cult classic “The Warriors,” has died. Harris played “Cochise,” one of the leaders of The Warriors gang in Sol Yurick’s 1965 novel and 1979 film.
20. DJ Clark Kent
A statement from the family read ” It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of the beloved Rodolfo A. Franklin, known to the world as DJ Clark Kent. Clark passed away Thursday evening surrounded by his devoted wife Kesha, daughter Kabriah and son Antonio. Clark quietly and valiantly fought a three year battle with Colon Cancer, while continuing to share his gifts with the world. The family is grateful for everyone’s love, support and prayers during this time and ask for privacy as they process this immense loss.”
21. University of South Florida (USF) basketball coach Amir Abdur-Rahim
University of South Florida (USF) basketball coach Amir Abdur-Rahim has died at the age of 43. The university announced that Abdur-Rahim passed away due to complications during a medical procedure at a Tampa-area hospital.
22. Thelma Mothershed Wair
23. Cissy Houston
24. John Amos
25. Dikembe Mutombo
Former NBA great Dikembe Mutombo passed away after a fight with Brain Cancer.
26. Cat Glover
Glover, whose full name was Catherine Vernice Glover, was a choreographer, dancer, singer, and rapper for Prince’s “Sign O’ the Times” and “Lovesexy” tours. Glover appeared in the “Sign O’ the Times” concert film and the “Lovesexy Live” broadcast. She also performed a memorable rap on the song “Alphabet St.” from Prince’s “Lovesexy” album and contributed to “The Black Album.” Glover released the EP “Catwoman”, her only solo project.
27. Tito Jackson
Tito Jackson, Singer & Musician In Iconic Jackson Family, Passes Away at 70
29. James Earl Jones
James Earl Jones, EGOT Winner and Hollywood Icon, Passes Away At 93
33. Al Attles
NBA Legend Al Attles passed away on Tuesday at his Bay Area home at the age of 87. Over more than six decades, Attles dedicated his talents and passion to the Warriors organization in various roles, including player, general manager, and team ambassador.
34. Hot 107.9 Birthday Bash 2024
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35. Wally Amos
Wallace “Wally” Amos, the founder of Famous Amos Cookies, has passed away at the age of 88.
Two of his children, Shawn and Sarah Amos, confirmed to the New York Times that he died on Aug. 13 at his home in Honolulu, Hawaii, due to complications of dementia.
36. Erica Ash
Actress and comedienne Erica Ash has passed away at the age of 46. Best known for her roles in ‘Real Husbands Of Hollywood’, ‘Survior’s Remorse’, and ‘In Contempt,’ we would like to express our condolences to her friends, peers, family and close inner circle.
37. Abdul Duke Fakir
According to a family spokesperson, Fakir died of heart failure with his wife and family by his side.
38. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Tex.)
Jackson-Lee announced last month she had been diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer and has battled Breast Cancer in the past.
40. Joe "Jellybean" Bryant
Joe Bryant, the father of the late NBA Icon Kobe Bryant has died. Bryant, reportedly has been dealing with health issues, including a massive stroke.
41. Jacoby Jones
Former NFL Wide Receiver Jacoby Jones passed away in his sleep at his home.
43. KeKe Jabbar
A statement after Jabbar’s passing read “It is with extreme sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Keke. She passed away peacefully at home surrounded by love. She was a mom, a sister, and a great friend full of life, love and laughter. She will be sorely missed and at this time, we are asking for respect and privacy in our moment of grief while we process this great loss. The Jabbar Family and the Scott Family,”
44. Renauld White
Renauld White died in hospice care at Lenox Hill Hospital in Manhattan on Wednesday at the age of 80, according to WWD. His cause of death has not been reported.
46. Rev. James Lawson
Rev. James Lawson, a leading theoretician and tactician of nonviolence within the American Civil Rights Movement along with Nashville’s civil rights movement, died on June 9 at 95. Read more about his life by clicking here.
49. Bill Cobbs
According to his publicist, Cobbs passed away in his home. Cobbs just turned 90 on June 16th.
53. Enchanting
It was reported that she was in critical condition from a suspected overdose that led to her untimely passing.
56. Mark Ross a.k.a. Brother Marquis
Hip-Hop is mourning the loss of another OG in the game, as iconic rap group 2 Live Crew confirmed the passing of member Mark Ross a.k.a. Brother Marquis.
The rapper passed away on Monday, June 3, according to a post on the group’s official social media account. The caption simply states that Ross “has went to the upper room.”
Although not an original member of the crew, Brother Marquis helped cement the group’s place in hip-hop infamy, along with DJ Mr. Mixx, the late Fresh Kid Ice, and Luke “Skyywalker” Campbell.
59. Drew Gordon
The former NBA player and brother of Denver Nuggets star Aaron Gordon was killed in a car accident in Portland, Oregon, on Thursday, May 30th. He was 33 years old.
61. Archie Cooley
Cooley was known as the “The Gunslinger” and during his time at Mississippi Valley State introduced his innovative “Satellite Express” offense. The offense featured a no-huddle look with five wide receivers and showcased quarterback Willie Totten and Rice. Rice would go on to a stellar career with the San Francisco 49ers, election to the Pro Football Hall of Fame and is considered one of the greatest receivers in the history of the NFL.
Cooley was born in Sumrall and raised in Laurel where he attended Oak Park High School.
Cooley played for Jackson State from 1959-61 and was captain of the team. He started at linebacker and center for coach John Merritt. Cooley graduated in 1962.
62. U.S. Rep. Donald Payne Jr.
U.S. Rep. Donald Payne Jr., the Congressman from New Jersey who represented the Garden State on Capitol Hill for a dozen years, has died. He was 65.
64. Chance Perdomo
Actor Chance Perdomo who was known for his role in the new Amazon show “Gen V” has died following a motorcycle crash, according to AP. The young actor was 27 years old.
“On behalf of the family and his representatives, it is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Chance Perdomo’s untimely passing as a result of a motorcycle accident,” a publicist said to AP in a statement Saturday evening.
According to the family publicist, no one else was injured in the motorcycle crash but no details about the incident have yet been released.
Chance Perdomo was also widely known for his role in the Netflix series “Chilling Adventures of Sabrina,” where he played the role of Ambrose Spellman. Perdomo starred in 36 episodes, which spanned over 4 seasons.
In 2023, Perdomo starred in his most popular role as Andre Anderson in The Boys spinoff series Gen V. The show follows a group of young superheroes who must navigate their college experience while being controlled by an evil corporation called Vought. The show was a hit success for Amazon Prime.
Following Chance Perdomo his representatives also released a heartfelt statement offering condolences to the family and asking for fans to respect the family’s privacy during these difficult times.
“His passion for the arts and insatiable appetite for life was felt by all who knew him, and his warmth will carry on in those who he loved dearest,” the statement read. “We ask to please respect the family’s wish for privacy as they mourn the loss of their beloved son and brother.”
The producers of the show shared their love for Perdomo’s family on social.
“We can’t quite wrap our heads around this,” the statement said. “For those of us knew him and worked with him, Chance was always charming and smiling, an enthusiastic force of nature, an incredibly talented performer, and more than anything else, just a very kind, loving person. Even writing about him in the past tense doesn’t make sense. We are so sorry for Chance’s family, and we are grieving the lost of our friend and colleague. Hug your loved ones tonight.”
Amazon MGM Studios also shared statements remembering Perdomo.
“The entire GEN V family is devastated by the sudden passing of Chance Perdomo,” Amazon said. “Amazon MGM Studios and Song Picture Television extend our heartfelt thoughts and support to Chance’s family and all who love him at this difficult time.”
65. Mandisa
Former American Idol alum and Christian singer Mandisa has died. She was 47 years old.
Known for her powerhouse voice, Mandisa began her singing career at an early age as a member of the Fisk Jubilee Singers while she attended Fisk University. After competing in season 5 of American Idol where she finished in the Top 10, Mandisa went on to release her first album, True Beauty, in 2007. As a Grammy winner and two-time K-LOVE Fan Award winner, some of her most notable music collaborations have included songs with Kirk Franklin, TobyMac and Matthew West.
At this time, Mandisa cause of death is unknown.
67. Faith Ringgold
Award-winning author and artist Faith Ringgold died on April 12 at the age of 93. Her death was confirmed by her assistant Grace Matthews, who said Ringgold died at her home in Englewood, New Jersey .
Ringgold was a true pioneer for Black women in the art world. In 1971 she founded the ‘Where We At’ artists collective for Black women. She also turned to social activism, protesting American museums for the lack of representation of Black female artists.
68. O.J. Simpson
O.J. Simpson passed away from cancer at the age of 76
69. DJ Mister Cee
Born in Bedford–Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, in the late 80’s Mister Cee came to fame as Big Daddy Kane’s DJ, who he met while in high school. As part of the Juice Crew, Cee was there on Kane’s seminal debut album Long Live The Kane, featuring on a song called “Mister Cee’s Master Plan” with his expert cutting and scratching throughout the album.
But perhaps even more notable is that Cee is credited with discovering late, great rapper the Notorious B.I.G. Cee was among the first to co-sign the then local rap phenom before appearing in The Source magazine’s Unsigned Hype section.
72. Sarah-Ann Shaw, advocate-journalist who broke barriers at WBZ, dies at 90
Sarah-Ann Shaw, a pioneering journalist who made history as the first Black woman TV report in Boston, died on March 21. She was 90.
CBS News, the parent company of its affiliate WBZ-TV network in Boston for which Shaw worked for more than three decades, confirmed her death in a news article.
74. Dorie Ladner
Dorie Ann Ladner, a civil rights activist described by the New York Times as being “unsung” despite her significant accomplishments as an organizer, died on March 11. Ladner was 81 years old.
Ladner’s cause of death was confirmed by her younger sister, Joyce, who is also a civil rights icon, as being due to complications from Covid-19.
Dorie Ann Ladner is pictured to the right of her sister, Joyce.
76. Jessica Pettway
Long-time beauty and hair influencer Jessica Pettway. According to Jessica’s family, the social media starlet has died.
The devastating news comes after a surprising cervical cancer diagnosis and public battle with the disease. According to the YouTuber, after being misdiagnosed with fibroids, a doctor told her she had stage 3 cervical cancer. Jessica leaves behind a husband and two beautiful daughters.
“Being told I have cancer didn’t devastate me,” she said in an Instagram post at the time. “It was the reaction of those close to me. I knew that God is my healer and that no weapon formed against me, not even cancer, would prosper. I knew that I am more than a conqueror and that I will get through this.” influencer jessica pettway,jessica pettway
77. Sandra Crouch
Sandra Crouch, Grammy-winning gospel artist, preacher, and the twin sister of late gospel great Andraé Crouch, has passed away at the age of 81.
As reported by the Journal of Gospel Music, Crouch transitioned on March 17, 2024. Her death was confirmed on the Facebook page of New Christ Memorial Church in California, where she served as Senior Pastor.
78. Anthony “Baby Gap” Walker
Anthony “Baby Gap” Walker, a member of R&B/funk group The Gap Band, has passed away at the age of 60.
The musician and dancer died in an Ohio hospital on March 4 of complications from a recent neck surgery, according to his brother, Dr. Eric Walker. A memorial service will take place later this week in his hometown of Chicago.
83. Eric Mays
The beloved and outspoken councilman was best known unwavering passion for politics and viral quotes and court moments (i.e. “Point of Order!”). His contributions, impact, and energy will be missed by many.
85. Herbert Wigwe
Herbert Wigwe, a major bank executive in Africa, died on Feb. 9 in a helicopter accident in California. He was just 58 years old.
The CEO of Access Bank, a top-ranked Nigerian-based financial institution, died in the crash along with his wife, son, the former group chairman of the Nigeria Stock Exchange and both pilots, CNN reported.
Godwin Obaseki, the governor of Edo State in Nigeria, eulogized Wigwe in a social media post.
“The tragic incident is painful and heart-wrenching, and we pray for God’s abiding comfort in this profoundly difficult time,” Obaseki wrote. “Wigwe was a colossus in Nigeria’s financial sector, leading Access Bank to become an international brand that placed Nigeria on the global map of first-class financial services.”
88. Henry Fambrough
Henry Fambrough, the last surviving original member of the iconic R&B group The Spinners, whose hits included “It’s a Shame,” “Could It Be I’m Falling in Love” and “The Rubberband Man,” died Wednesday, a spokesperson for the group said. He was 85.
Fambrough died peacefully of natural causes in his northern Virginia home, spokesperson Tanisha Jackson said in a statement.
Fambrough died on Feb. 7
89. Richard Caster
Richard Caster, a former HBCU football star who went on to play more than a dozen years as a professional football player in the NFL, died on Feb. 2 at 75.
90. Earl Cureton
Earl Cureton, a basketball star who won two NBA championships, died on Feb. 4.
93. Hage Geingob
Hage Geingob, the president of the African nation Namibia, died on Feb 5. He was 82.
94. Aston “Family Man” Barrett
Aston “Family Man” Barrett, the former bassist for legendary reggae group Bob Marley & The Wailers, died on Feb. 3. He was 77.
95. Carl Weathers
The Family said in a statement that Weathers “died peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, February 1st, 2024. … Carl was an exceptional human being who lived an extraordinary life. Through his contributions to film, television, the arts and sports, he has left an indelible mark and is recognized worldwide and across generations. He was a beloved brother, father, grandfather, partner, and friend.”
96. Radio Host Joe Madison
Madison was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2009. It went into remission following treatment. But he announced in December that the cancer had returned last year.
97. Hinton Battle
Broadway star Hinton Battle died Tuesday morning at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, according to Hollywood Reporter.
The Tony-winning performer died at 67 after battling an undisclosed illness, which the family intends to keep private.
98. Dexter King
Dexter Scott King. The youngest son of the late great Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and equally missed Coretta Scott King, Dexter reportedly succumbed to an extensive battle with prostate cancer today (January 22). He was 62 years old.
101. Jerry Wade aka "The Ultimate Loverman"
Indianapolis disc jockey Jerry Wade, host of WTLC’s The Quiet Storm with The Loverman Jerry Wade for over 40 years, died at the age 61. his death was confirmed by family on Monday, January 8, 2024.
via WTLC:
“While on the air, Jerry was ‘Mr. Loverman,’ a charismatic, deep voiced, radio disc-jockey, gracing the airwaves Sunday through Thursday with ‘sexiest show in the city.’ But off-air, Jerry made everyone else feel like they were the super star. ‘The Loverman’ was the personality, but if there he had an alter-ego it was just ‘Jerry.’ An ego-less man who loved Indianapolis and wanted to see people smile. What most listeners didn’t know, was Jerry’s giving heart. Jerry was also the Executive Director of ‘Quality of Life,’ an Adult Day Center on the east side of Indianapolis. If that wasn’t enough Jerry was also a entrepreneur, as the owner of several salons known as ‘Hot Cuts’ and of course ‘Jerry Wade Live’ his mobile DJ service. And a real life ‘Hitch’ as through his date coach services he connected and reconnected countless relationship.”
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2024 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
