Former football player turned artist Ernie Barnes died on April 27. He was 70. Barnes became one of the most celebrated African-American painters of the last century and one of the most collected artist in the country, according to NBCMiami.com. Barnes’ most famous work the “Sugar Shack” dance scene appeared on a Marvin Gaye album cover and during the closing credits of beloved 70’s show, “Good Times.” He died at Cedars Sinai Medical Center after a brief illness.
Barnes is survived by his wife, Bernie; brother James; sons Michael and Sean; and daughters Deidre, Erin and Paige.
A private memorial is pending. The family requests donations be made in his name to Hillsides Home For Children in Pasadena.