This year has been a rollercoaster of emotions with unpredictable twists and turns, particularly when it comes to losing some of our most beloved celebrities. The world lost icons in journalism, sports, entertainment and politics that impacted the Black community especially.
From Della Reese to JIm Vance, here’s a list of famous people who passed away in 2017.
The legendary actress, jazz and gospel singer, and ordained minister passed away on Nov. 19.
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Earle Hyman was known for several popular roles, especially that of Cliff Huxtable’s pops! His final sunset on Nov. 17.
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We lost one of the iconic pioneer of rock and roll on Oct. 24. He was 89-years-old.
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Guillaume, who passed away in October, played King in 1985’s Prince Jack.
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Ellis was only 39 when he died of complications from heart failure.
Michael Buckner
Big Black was best known for starring in MTV’s Rob & Big with his buddy, skateboarder Rob Ryrdek. He died in the spring at 45.
Gabe Ginsberg
Hip-Hop lost a legend the day Prodigy died.
This actor and singer lived a full life and gave us equally talented sons, Cuba Gooding Jr. and Omar Gooding. His legacy will live on through them.
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CHARLIE MURPHY! His stories were epic and will be missed.
Michael Schwartz
Without Q there would be no “Wooooorld Staaaar!” Rest in Peace.
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Our favorite comedian, civil rights activist, social critic, writer, entrepreneur and conspiracy theorist uncle is kicking that knowledge in the afterlife.
Brent N. Clarke
The veteran producer and reporter for WRC-TV spent 45 years serving the Washington DC area before losing his battle to cancer.
The Washington Post—The Washington Post/Getty Images
Fresh Kid Ice was a founding member of 2 Live Crew. Hip-hop lost another legend.
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Another rock and roll pioneer has transitioned from Earth.
Ebet Roberts
Add the seven-time Grammy Award winner to the long list of musicians who passed away in 2017.
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Long died in January at age 63.
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We lost the man who brought us “Everlasting Love” passed on Nov. 5.
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The former Seattle Seahawks defensive tackle was just 48 when he died.
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The Project Runway finalist died at age 39 of unknown causes.
Wilder was best known as the lead singer of 70s funk band Heatwave.
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The beloved actor, poet and football player died of a stroke.
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The Broadway legend died of cancer in September.
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Bradley joined the big jam session in the sky in September.
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Sledge was best known as a founding member of Sister Sledge, the group who blessed the world with “We Are Family” and “He’s the Greatest Dancer.”
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