As 2025 draws to an end, it’s easy to conclude that the year hit quite hard… maybe harder than the last few. 2025 has already taken many Black celebrities who shaped our world through music, faith, film, and culture. From soulful singers to movie stars, their work continues to remind us that legacy doesn’t end with death. Here we remember 15 Black celebrities who died in 2025.
George Foreman
Heavyweight boxing legend George Foreman died in March at the age of 76. The two-time world champion and Olympic gold medalist became as famous for his grill as for his power in the ring. As a minister and the father of 12, Foreman lived big inside and outside the ring.
Angie Stone
R&B singer Angie Stone tragically died after a car accident involving her Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and an 18-wheeler. She was returning home from a show when the driver lost control near an exit. The Grammy-nominated singer’s powerful voice left a mark that won’t ever fade.
Ike Turner Jr.
Ike Turner Jr., the son of Tina and Ike Turner, passed away this year. Born into music history, he carved his own path, even earning a Grammy in 2007 for producing Risin’ With the Blues. In recent years, he toured with The Love Thang Band.
D’Angelo
Neo-soul lost one of its architects this month when the artist behind Brown Sugar, Voodoo, and Black Messiah passed away after battling pancreatic cancer. His smooth sound inspired a generation of R&B.
Malcolm-Jamal Warner
In July 2025, the entertainment world mourned the actor and director best known as Theo Huxtable from The Cosby Show. He died in an accidental drowning while vacationing in Costa Rica.
Rolling Ray
Rolling Ray passed this year but left a digital footprint big enough for several lifetimes. From Catfish: Trolls to Divorce Court, his sharp comebacks made him internet royalty.
Irv Gotti
The hip-hop community lost a legend when the cofounder of Murder Inc. Records passed away after a stroke this year. Known for shaping the early 2000s sound with Ja Rule and Ashanti, he turned street hits into chart climbers.
Voddie Baucham
Pastor Voddie Baucham Jr. passed away on September 25, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of faith and family devotion. The Fault Lines author and Reformed Baptist pastor built theology programs from Texas to Zambia and helped launch Founders Seminary in Florida.
Sam Moore
The world said goodbye to a true soul legend at the beginning of the year when the 89-year-old singer from Sam & Dave passed away after surgery complications. His voice powered Soul Man and Hold On, I’m Comin’, songs that defined an era.
Danielle Spencer
Danielle Spencer, forever remembered as Dee Thomas from What’s Happening!!, died at 60 after a long battle with cancer.
Ananda Lewis
The media world lost a familiar face when the former MTV and BET host passed away after a long fight with breast cancer. From Teen Summit to TRL and The Ananda Lewis Show, she inspired a generation.
Kimberly Hébert Gregory
The actress is best known as Dr Belinda Brown on Vice Principals. With decades of film and stage credits, she built a reputation for depth and grit.
Voletta Wallace
Voletta Wallace, mother of The Notorious B.I.G., passed away on February 21. More than just Biggie’s mom, she was a teacher and activist.
D’Wayne Wiggins
Tony! Toni! Toné!’s D’Wayne Wiggins passed away on March 7 at 64. His guitar work and silky harmonies helped craft hits like Anniversary and Feels Good.
Sly Stone
Sly Stone, the frontman of Sly and the Family Stone, passed away in June after a long battle with COPD. His music—Everyday People, Dance to the Music—redefined sound and spirit.
