Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025

1. Dr. Danielle Spencer

2. T-Hood

3. Hitman Howie Tee

4. Rahaman Ali

5. Malcolm-Jamal Warner

6. Robbie Pardlo

Robbie Pardlo, a former member of the R&B and hip-hop group City High, has passed away at the age of 46.

7. Young Noble

Young Noble, a key member of the iconic hip-hop group The Outlawz, has tragically passed away at 47. Born Rufus Lee Cooper III, he reportedly died by suicide in Atlanta. Noble joined The Outlawz in 1996, personally added by Tupac Shakur, and contributed to tracks on Tupac’s posthumous album The Don Killuminati: The 7 Day Theory, including “Hail Mary.” Beyond group success, he released solo albums like Noble Justice. After surviving a heart attack in 2021, he focused on health and remained active. His sudden passing has left the hip-hop community mourning a talented artist and Tupac’s legacy preserver.

8. Eddie “Supa” Lewis

The music community is mourning the loss of Eddie Lewis, better known as Supa, the frontman of the pioneering 90s house group Aly-Us. Supa’s name became synonymous with “Follow Me,” a defining anthem of the house music genre. His soulful, heartfelt vocal performance transformed the track into a symbol of unity and connection, resonating on dance floors worldwide.

Emerging from New Jersey’s vibrant underground house scene, Aly-Us and their iconic hit struck a chord with listeners, inspiring a sense of collective joy and hope. “Follow Me” wasn’t just a song—it was an invitation to come together, a celebration of belonging that transcended barriers. Decades on, it has retained its relevance, embraced anew by younger generations who have discovered its magic. The track now thrives in diverse settings, from classic club playlists to modern trail-ride music collections.

9. Dave Parker

Baseball mourns the loss of one of its most charismatic and talented figures, Dave Parker, who passed away at the age of 74 after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. Known as “The Cobra,” Parker was a larger-than-life presence both on and off the field, leaving an indelible mark on the game during his 19-year career.

10. Walter Scott

11. Lynn Hamilton

12. Cavin Yarbrough

13. Esaw Snipes-Garner

14. Ananda Lewis

15. Sly Stone

16. Khadiyah ‘KD’ Lewis

17. Jim Marshall

18. Mike McCallum

19. Niko McKnight

20. Charles Rangel

21. Sacha Jenkins

22. Latonya Pottain

23. Rapper LGP Qua

24. John Edwards

25. Jim Dent

26. Chet Lemon

27. Clarence O. Smith

28. Dick Barnett

29. Eddie Fluellen

30.  Armstead Jones

 Armstead Jones, the longtime director of the Baltimore City Board of Elections, died at the age of 71 just hours after publicly announcing his retirement.

31. Huey P. Williams

32. Young Scooter

33. Pastor DeJaughn William “Billy” Murphy

Born and raised in Detroit, Billy was the second oldest of five children and a third-generation pastor. He was the proud son of Bishop William H. Murphy Jr. and Elder Donna R. Murphy.

34. Mia Love

Love was the first Black Republican woman and Haitian-American in Congress. A former Saratoga Springs, UT mayor, she championed fiscal responsibility. Love passed away at 49 in 2025 after a three-year battle with brain cancer.

35. George Foreman

36. Donald “Slick” Watts

37. Anthony W. McCarthy

We are sad to report that, Anthony W. McCarthy, a brilliant communications strategist who shaped the public images of some of Maryland’s most influential figures—including Sheila Dixon, Martin O’Malley, Kweisi Mfume, and Elijah Cummings—passed away Sunday at the age of 57.

38. Oliver Miller

Former NBA center Oliver Miller, affectionately known as “The Big O,” passed away on Wednesday at the age of 54, following a battle with cancer. Miller’s death was confirmed by Suns analyst Eddie Johnson, who shared the heartbreaking news on social media. The basketball world is now mourning the loss of a player whose presence on the court was as formidable as his personality off it.

39. Junior Bridgeman

Junior Bridgeman, a former University of Louisville basketball star and billionaire entrepreneur, has died at 71 following a medical emergency during a fundraising event at the Galt House Hotel in Louisville. Known for his time with the Milwaukee Bucks and Los Angeles Clippers, Bridgeman transitioned from the NBA to extraordinary business success, owning over 450 restaurant franchises, a Coca-Cola bottling operation, and Ebony and Jet magazines. Tributes poured in, with Louisville leaders calling him an “icon” for his athletic and philanthropic contributions. Remembered for his generosity and integrity, Bridgeman leaves a remarkable legacy both on and off the court.

40. D’Wayne Wiggins

41. DJ Funk

42. Luther Keith

43. Harry Elston

Harry Elston, founder of the Friends of Distinction and the voice behind iconic hits like “Grazing in the Grass” and “Going in Circles,” has passed away at 86. Elston formed the group in 1968, delivering a unique blend of pop and soul with unforgettable harmonies. Their music, including hits like “Love or Let Me Be Lonely,” graced the charts in the late 60s and early 70s. Managed by NFL star Jim Brown, the group became a vital part of the California soul sound. Elston’s influence extended beyond his vibrant musical career, earning admiration for his kindness, optimism, and lasting legacy in soul music.

44. Roy Ayers

Roy Ayers, the iconic jazz vibraphonist celebrated for his groundbreaking contributions to jazz-funk and neo-soul, passed away on March 4, 2025, in New York City at the age of 84 after a prolonged illness.

45. Sylvester Turner

A Houston native, Turner began his career in law after graduating from Harvard Law School. In 1983 he founded Barnes & Turner, his own law firm in addition to his duties as a professor and lecturer at several law schools.

His move to the political arena would see Turner serve two terms as mayor of the City of Houston after being elected in 2016.

46. Angie Stone

Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter Angie Stone was killed in an auto accident Saturday morning (March 1) at the age of 63.  Her daughter, Diamond, confirmed the news on social media, simply saying “My Mommy is gone.”  The singer’s rep, Deborah R. Champagne, confirmed to TMZ that the singer was killed on her way home from a show in Montgomery, Alabama.

47. Dr. Alvin Poussaint

Dr. Alvin Poussaint studied the tendrils of systemic racism and Black self-sufficiency along with serving as a consultant to hit TV shows.

48. Chris Jasper

Chris Jasper, who played a key role in the Isley Brothers’ success in the 70s and 80s, passed away on Feb. 23 from cancer at age 73.

49. Kevin Braswell

50. Roberta Flack

51. Gwen McCrae

52. Voletta Wallace

53. Jerry “Iceman” Butler

Jerry initially gained fame as the lead singer of the R&B group The Impressions, a groundbreaking act that included iconic names like Curtis Mayfield. Together, they created influential tracks such as 1958’s “For Your Precious Love,” which Butler co-wrote and which became their defining hit.

54. Chelsea Reject

Chelsea Reject, born Chelsea Alexander, was a Brooklyn-based indie rapper known for her introspective lyrics and experimental artistry. Emerging in the 2010s, she gained recognition with her mixtape “Cmplx,” collaborating with members of Pro Era and sharing stages with artists like Mobb Deep and Talib Kweli. Her music often reflected themes of anxiety, self-discovery, and resilience, blending laid-back production with fiery energy.

Chelsea was also celebrated for her independent spirit, self-releasing projects like “This Is Not My Final Form” and touring internationally. Her work resonated with fans for its authenticity and emotional depth, making her a prominent figure in New York City’s underground rap scene.

55. Gene “Groove” Allen

Gene “Groove” Allen, a Hip-Hop pioneer and actor, gained fame as part of Groove B. Chill, known for their 1990 album Starting From Zero. He shone in cult classics House Party and its sequel, blending music and film.

56. Tim Tooten, Beloved Baltimore Journalist

Tim Tooten, one of the longest-tenured and best-recognized education reporters in the region, retired in 2023 after 35 years with WBAL and more than 40 years in journalism. tim tooten,one of the longest-tenured and best-recognized education reporters in the region,retired in 2023 after 35 years with wbal and more than 40 years in journalism.

57. Irv Gotti

Irv Gotti, the influential record executive, producer, and entrepreneur best known for founding Murder Inc. Records, has passed away, The Hollywood Reporter confirmed Wednesday. The cause of his death remains undisclosed.

58. Retired Lt. Col. Harry Stewart, Jr

Stewart, Jr. was a retired U.S. Air Force officer and one of the legendary Tuskegee Airmen, the first African-American military aviators in the United States Armed Forces. Born on July 4, 1924, Stewart served during World War II as a fighter pilot in the 332nd Fighter Group, famously known as the “Red Tails.”

59. DJ Unk

60. Reatha “Rose” Grey

61. Yolanda Halley

62. Barry Michael Cooper

63. Former NBA All-Star Gus Williams

64. Actress Dalyce Curry

65. Sam Moore

Born in Miami, Florida, in October 1935, Moore grew up immersed in gospel music, singing in church choirs before his path led him to rhythm and blues. His life changed in the early 1960s when he met Dave Prater at a Miami nightclub. Together, they formed Sam & Dave, and the pair quickly became a driving force in soul music. Signed to the legendary Stax Records, their partnership with the songwriting team of Isaac Hayes and David Porter resulted in some of the genre’s most enduring classics.

66. Singer, Brenton Wood

Born Alfred Jesse Smith in Shreveport, Louisiana, Wood’s family relocated to California, where his artistic talents blossomed. Drawing inspiration from legends like Sam Cooke, his unique blend of soulful vocals, piano-driven instrumentation, and playful lyrics brought a fresh vibrancy to the R&B genre. His work captured universal experiences of love, heartbreak, and connection, resonating deeply with listeners.

Wood rose to fame in the 1960s with hits like “The Oogum Boogum Song” and “Gimme Little Sign.”