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

Source: Houston Chronicle/Hearst Newspapers / Getty

UPDATED: 8:30 pm CST March 21st, 2025

As we’ve come to understand year after year, day after day even, death is unfortunately an inevitable part of life. Still, as much of a fact as that may be, the blow of experiencing loss never gets any easier, nor does reporting on the subject in Black culture.

Boxing icon George Foreman has passed away.

The Family released a statement on Foreman’s official Instagram account, saying “Our hearts are broken. With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved George Edward Foreman Sr. who peacefully departed on March 21, 2025 surrounded by loved ones. A devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grand and great grandfather, he lived a life marked by unwavering faith, humility, and purpose.

A humanitarian, an Olympian, and two time heavyweight champion of the world, He was deeply respected — a force for good, a man of discipline, conviction, and a protector of his legacy, fighting tirelessly to preserve his good name— for his family.

We are grateful for the outpouring of love and prayers, and kindly ask for privacy as we honor the extraordinary life of a man we were blessed to call our own.”

Renowned both in and out of the boxing ring, George Foreman first captured global attention in 1968, when he won an Olympic gold medal in Mexico City. His boxing career soared in 1973, when he claimed the heavyweight world championship by defeating the undefeated Joe Frazier in a stunning display of power. After a long hiatus, Foreman made history in 1994 by becoming the oldest heavyweight champion at 45, reclaiming the title with a tenth-round knockout against Michael Moorer. This remarkable comeback cemented his place as one of boxing’s greatest legends.

Beyond sports, George Foreman was a man of faith, service, and entrepreneurial spirit. Following his retirement from boxing, he became a devout preacher, touching countless lives with his inspirational messages. He also found extraordinary success with the George Foreman Grill, which brought his name into millions of households and showcased his versatility as an entrepreneur. Additionally, his work as a motivational speaker inspired many to face life’s challenges with resilience and determination.

Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on ioneblackamericaweb.staging.go.ione.nyc

1. Angie Stone

Angie Stone, iconic singer-songwriter, revolutionized music as a member of The Sequence and neo-soul pioneer. Her groundbreaking work in hip-hop and R&B leaves an enduring legacy in music and culture.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. Roberta Flack

Born in Black Mountain, North Carolina, Flack’s musical talent was evident from a young age. She began studying piano at 9 and later earned a full scholarship to Howard University at just 15, becoming one of its youngest students. Her career soared when Clint Eastwood featured her rendition of “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” in his 1971 film Play Misty for Me. The emotional ballad became a chart-topping hit and earned her the Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 1973.

5. Gwen McCrae

Gwen McCrae, legendary soul and disco singer, known for her 1975 hit “Rockin’ Chair,”, passed away at 81.

6. Voletta Wallace

Source:Getty

The cause of death has been reported as natural causes, according to Monroe County Coroner Thomas Yanac.

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. 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.

10. Irv Gotti

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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.

11. 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.”

12. Reatha “Rose” Grey

Reatha “Rose” Grey was a member of the Retirement House and quickly became a viral TikTok sensation for her funny wit and zest for life. It was announced that she passed by her fellow friends, no cause of death was given.

13. Yolanda Halley

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Producer Yolanda Halley, passed away on Sunday, January 19, 2025

14. Barry Michael Cooper

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Journalist and author Barry Michael Cooper wrote the films New Jack City (1991) , Sugar Hill (1994) and Above the Rim (1994)

15. 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.

16. 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

17. 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.

18. 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.”