Source: Reach Media / Urban One
UPDATED: 8:00 am EST Nov. 47h, 2025
Baltimore is mourning the loss of one of its most respected public servants. Deputy Mayor of Public Safety Anthony Barksdale, a West Baltimore native and proud graduate of Baltimore Polytechnic Institute, passed away Thursday night, according to Mayor Brandon Scott.
“Tony Barksdale was the epitome of what it means to be a public servant — but more importantly, he was a standard bearer of what it means to be a good man,” Mayor Scott said. “For more than three decades, he served this city with one mission: to make it safer for all Baltimoreans. Whether as a patrol officer, Deputy Commissioner, Acting Commissioner, or Deputy Mayor, Tony never wavered in that commitment. I had the privilege of learning from him for nearly twenty years, and I’ll forever be grateful for his mentorship and friendship. Baltimore is better because a boy from West Baltimore made it his mission to make it safer.”
As Deputy Mayor, Barksdale oversaw operations and policy coordination for several key city departments, including the Baltimore Police Department, the Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement (MONSE), and the Baltimore City Fire Department. He was instrumental in advancing the city’s Comprehensive Violence Prevention Plan, working closely with MONSE to strengthen community-based safety strategies.
Barksdale’s legacy of service began in 1993, when he joined the Baltimore Police Department. His leadership and innovation quickly earned him respect across the force. In 2007, he became Commissioner of Operations, where he implemented a citywide crime plan that led to historically low levels of arrests and homicides between 2007 and 2012.
For more than 30 years, Anthony Barksdale devoted his life to protecting and uplifting Baltimore. His impact on the city and the people who knew him will be felt for generations.
Learn more below about those in our culture who have passed away so far in 2025 below:
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Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
1. Baltimore Deputy Mayor of Public Safety Anthony Barksdal
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2. Marshawn Kneeland
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3. Young Bleed
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4. Posta Boy
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5. P.E.A.C.E.
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
6. D’Angelo
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7. Arthur Jones
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
8. Dr. Earl S. Richardson, Morgan State University’s 9th inaugurated president
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
9. Rolling Ray
D.C. influencer Raymond Harper, “Rolling Ray,” dies at 28; celebrated for viral moments, TV appearances, and unapologetic authenticity.
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
10. George Raveling
Raveling’s basketball career began as a player at Villanova from 1957 to 1960. He later served as an assistant coach at his alma mater in 1963 before leading programs at Maryland, Washington State, Iowa, and USC. He earned three Pac-10 Coach of the Year honors and was inducted into the College Basketball Hall of Fame in 2013 and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2015.
After retiring from coaching in 1994, Raveling joined Nike as its global basketball sports marketing director. He was instrumental in convincing Michael Jordan to sign with the brand, a move that transformed sports marketing. “Sonny [Vaccaro] likes to take the credit, but it really wasn’t Sonny—it was actually George Raveling,” Jordan said in 2015.
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
11. Reggie Carroll
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
12. Vivian Ayers Allen
Vivian Ayers Allen, a Pulitzer Prize-nominated poet and mother of entertainment icons Debbie Allen and Phylicia Rashad, passed away at the age of 102.
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
13. Dr. Danielle Spencer
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14. T-Hood
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15. Hitman Howie Tee
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
16. Rahaman Ali
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
17. Malcolm-Jamal Warner
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
18. 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.
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
19. 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.
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
20. 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.
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
21. 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.
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
22. Walter Scott
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
23. Lynn Hamilton
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
24. Cavin Yarbrough
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
25. Esaw Snipes-Garner
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
26. Ananda Lewis
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
27. Sly Stone
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
28. Khadiyah ‘KD’ Lewis
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
29. Jim Marshall
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
30. Mike McCallum
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
31. Niko McKnight
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
32. Charles Rangel
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
33. Sacha Jenkins
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34. Latonya Pottain
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35. Rapper LGP Qua
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36. John Edwards
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37. Jim Dent
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38. Chet Lemon
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39. Clarence O. Smith
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40. Dick Barnett
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41. Eddie Fluellen
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
42. 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.
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
43. Huey P. Williams
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44. Young Scooter
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
45. 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.
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
46. 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.
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
47. George Foreman
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
48. Donald “Slick” Watts
Donald “Slick” Watts, a cherished Seattle basketball figure, passed away at 73. An undrafted talent out of Xavier University of Louisiana, Watts joined the NBA’s Seattle Supersonics through a tryout arranged by coach Bill Russell. Over five seasons, he became the first player to lead the league in assists and steals in a single season (1975-76), earning First Team All-Defense honors and the J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award. Post-retirement, Watts stayed in Seattle, teaching physical education and running a basketball academy with his son. His warm presence at local games and dedication to youth cemented his enduring community legacy.
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
49. 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.
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
50. 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.
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51. 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.
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52. D’Wayne Wiggins
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
53. DJ Funk
DJ Funk, born Charles Chambers, was a trailblazing figure in Chicago’s underground music scene and instrumental in defining the ghetto house genre. Known for high-energy hits like “Work Dat Body” and “Pump It,” his bass-heavy sound and party-driven lyrics brought vibrancy to Midwest clubs throughout the 1990s. A leader in the house music movement, DJ Funk solidified his legacy on labels like Dance Mania, which he later owned. Sadly, he passed away at 54 from stage 4 cancer.
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
54. Luther Keith
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
55. 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.
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
56. 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.
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
57. 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.
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
58. 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.
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
59. 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.
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
60. 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.
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
61. Kevin Braswell
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
62. Roberta Flack
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
63. Gwen McCrae
Gwen McCrae, legendary soul and disco singer, known for her 1975 hit “Rockin’ Chair,”, passed away at 81.
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
64. Voletta Wallace
The cause of death has been reported as natural causes, according to Monroe County Coroner Thomas Yanac.
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
65. 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.
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
66. 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.
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
67. 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.
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
68. Tim Tooten, Beloved Baltimore Journalist
Source:The Baltimore Banner
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.
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
69. Irv Gotti
Source:Getty
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.
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
70. 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.”
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
71. DJ Unk
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72. Reatha “Rose” Grey
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
73. Yolanda Halley
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
74. Barry Michael Cooper
Journalist and author Barry Michael Cooper wrote the films New Jack City (1991) , Sugar Hill (1994) and Above the Rim (1994)
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
75. Former NBA All-Star Gus Williams
Williams received the nickname “The Wizard” for his dazzling ball-handling and quick drives. Over his career, Williams averaged 17.1 points, 5.6 assists and 2.0 steals per game with two All-Star selections and multiple All-NBA honors.
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
76. Actress Dalyce Curry
Dalyce Curry was an actress known for her role in “Blues Brothers.” She recently passed away at the age of 95 due to the Los Angeles wildfires. Her remains were found at her home in Altadena, California
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
77. 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.
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
78. 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.”
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
