Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025
UPDATED: 1:00 pm EST, December 30th, 2025
Smallwood’s career took off in 1977 when he founded the Richard Smallwood Singers, a group that brought a contemporary edge to gospel music. Their debut album spent an astounding 87 weeks on Billboard’s Spiritual Albums chart, and their 1984 release, Psalms, earned a GRAMMY® nomination. Hits like “Center of My Joy” and “Total Praise” showcased Smallwood’s ability to blend classical influences with gospel fervor, creating a sound that appealed to young, educated Black audiences and beyond. His music was embraced by mainstream artists, with Whitney Houston, Destiny’s Child, and Boyz II Men recording his compositions.
In the late 1980s, the Richard Smallwood Singers became the first gospel group to tour the Soviet Union, further cementing their global impact. Smallwood later formed Vision, a large choir that produced hits like “Angels” and the iconic “Total Praise,” a song born from personal trials that became a universal anthem of faith and resilience.
Smallwood’s career took off in 1977 when he founded the Richard Smallwood Singers, a group that brought a contemporary edge to gospel music. Their debut album spent an astounding 87 weeks on Billboard’s Spiritual Albums chart, and their 1984 release, Psalms, earned a GRAMMY® nomination. Hits like “Center of My Joy” and “Total Praise” showcased Smallwood’s ability to blend classical influences with gospel fervor, creating a sound that appealed to young, educated Black audiences and beyond. His music was embraced by mainstream artists, with Whitney Houston, Destiny’s Child, and Boyz II Men recording his compositions.
In the late 1980s, the Richard Smallwood Singers became the first gospel group to tour the Soviet Union, further cementing their global impact. Smallwood later formed Vision, a large choir that produced hits like “Angels” and the iconic “Total Praise,” a song born from personal trials that became a universal anthem of faith and resilience.
Beyond music, Smallwood was a storyteller and minister. His 2019 autobiography, Total Praise, revealed his struggles with grief and depression, offering a candid look at the man behind the music. Despite health challenges in his later years, Smallwood remained a beacon of inspiration, earning three Dove Awards, multiple Stellar Gospel Music Awards, and the enduring love of fans worldwide.
Richard Smallwood’s legacy lives on through his music, which continues to uplift and inspire. He is survived by his family and countless admirers who celebrate his life and contributions to gospel music.
STAY INFORMED! CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER!
Mickey Lee
Mickey Lee, a beloved star from Season 27 of Big Brother, has tragically passed away at the age of 35 due to complications from a cardiac episode. Her family announced the heartbreaking news on her Instagram account, sharing that she succumbed to the health crisis after battling a series of cardiac arrests following severe flu complications.
Mickey Lee, originally from Jacksonville, Florida, and later based in Atlanta, was more than just a reality TV contestant. She was a vibrant force of nature, known for her strategic gameplay, infectious energy, and unwavering authenticity. During her time on Big Brother, she became a fan favorite, representing Black women with strength, grace, and flair. Her presence on the show was a beacon of inspiration, showcasing her resilience and determination in a competitive environment.
Beyond the Big Brother house, Mickey was a creative powerhouse. She worked as an event curator, bringing people together through her innovative ideas and magnetic personality. Her ability to connect with others extended far beyond the screen, leaving a lasting impact on everyone she encountered.
Kevin Arkadie
Kevin Arkadie, a trailblazing screenwriter and producer, was celebrated for his contributions to television, particularly as the co-creator of the groundbreaking series New York Undercover. Born on December 10, 1957, in Washington, D.C., Arkadie initially pursued acting but transitioned to writing to challenge stereotypes in media. His career spanned decades, with notable work on acclaimed shows like NYPD Blue, The Shield, and Chicago Hope, earning him two Emmy nominations.
New York Undercover, which debuted in 1994, was a milestone in television history, being the first U.S. cop drama to feature two actors of color in lead roles. Arkadie was also known for his work on The Temptations miniseries and as a showrunner for Sacrifice and Ambitions. His storytelling often highlighted underrepresented voices and authentic cultural narratives.
Arkadie passed away on December 17, 2025, at the age of 68, due to complications from pneumonia following a kidney transplant. Remembered as a champion of diversity and a mentor to many, his legacy endures through the impactful stories he brought to life.
Betty Reid Soskin
Betty Reid Soskin, the oldest National Park Ranger, died on Sunday December 21st at age 104. In 2000, she found herself assisting with the launch of the Rosie the Riveter/WWII Home Front National Historical Park in Richmond, while working as an aide to Dion Aroner, a California assemblywoman. Her experiences during WWII were pivotal to the park’s creation. “I was the only person of color in the room,” Soskin told Newsweek.
In 2015, she introduced President Barack Obama during the lighting of the National Christmas Tree, where she received a commemorative presidential coin. During the tree lighting, she carried a photo of her great-grandmother, Leontine Breaux Allen, who was born into slavery.
On her 100th birthday, Betty Reid Soskin retired from the National Park Service. That same day, the West Contra Costa Unified School District renamed El Sobrante’s Juan Crespi Middle School to Betty Reid Soskin Middle School. “I don’t know what one might do to justify a long life,” she said during the renaming ceremony. “I think that you have pretty much got it made.”
Soskin is survived by her son, her daughters, Diara Melitte, Kitty Reid, and Dorian Leon Reid, five grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and three nieces.
Source: Reach Media / Urban One
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.
UPDATED: 1:00 pm EST, December 30th, 2025
Smallwood’s career took off in 1977 when he founded the Richard Smallwood Singers, a group that brought a contemporary edge to gospel music. Their debut album spent an astounding 87 weeks on Billboard’s Spiritual Albums chart, and their 1984 release, Psalms, earned a GRAMMY® nomination. Hits like “Center of My Joy” and “Total Praise” showcased Smallwood’s ability to blend classical influences with gospel fervor, creating a sound that appealed to young, educated Black audiences and beyond. His music was embraced by mainstream artists, with Whitney Houston, Destiny’s Child, and Boyz II Men recording his compositions.
In the late 1980s, the Richard Smallwood Singers became the first gospel group to tour the Soviet Union, further cementing their global impact. Smallwood later formed Vision, a large choir that produced hits like “Angels” and the iconic “Total Praise,” a song born from personal trials that became a universal anthem of faith and resilience.
Smallwood’s career took off in 1977 when he founded the Richard Smallwood Singers, a group that brought a contemporary edge to gospel music. Their debut album spent an astounding 87 weeks on Billboard’s Spiritual Albums chart, and their 1984 release, Psalms, earned a GRAMMY® nomination. Hits like “Center of My Joy” and “Total Praise” showcased Smallwood’s ability to blend classical influences with gospel fervor, creating a sound that appealed to young, educated Black audiences and beyond. His music was embraced by mainstream artists, with Whitney Houston, Destiny’s Child, and Boyz II Men recording his compositions.
In the late 1980s, the Richard Smallwood Singers became the first gospel group to tour the Soviet Union, further cementing their global impact. Smallwood later formed Vision, a large choir that produced hits like “Angels” and the iconic “Total Praise,” a song born from personal trials that became a universal anthem of faith and resilience.
Beyond music, Smallwood was a storyteller and minister. His 2019 autobiography, Total Praise, revealed his struggles with grief and depression, offering a candid look at the man behind the music. Despite health challenges in his later years, Smallwood remained a beacon of inspiration, earning three Dove Awards, multiple Stellar Gospel Music Awards, and the enduring love of fans worldwide.
Richard Smallwood’s legacy lives on through his music, which continues to uplift and inspire. He is survived by his family and countless admirers who celebrate his life and contributions to gospel music.
STAY INFORMED! CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER!
Mickey Lee
Mickey Lee, a beloved star from Season 27 of Big Brother, has tragically passed away at the age of 35 due to complications from a cardiac episode. Her family announced the heartbreaking news on her Instagram account, sharing that she succumbed to the health crisis after battling a series of cardiac arrests following severe flu complications.
Mickey Lee, originally from Jacksonville, Florida, and later based in Atlanta, was more than just a reality TV contestant. She was a vibrant force of nature, known for her strategic gameplay, infectious energy, and unwavering authenticity. During her time on Big Brother, she became a fan favorite, representing Black women with strength, grace, and flair. Her presence on the show was a beacon of inspiration, showcasing her resilience and determination in a competitive environment.
Beyond the Big Brother house, Mickey was a creative powerhouse. She worked as an event curator, bringing people together through her innovative ideas and magnetic personality. Her ability to connect with others extended far beyond the screen, leaving a lasting impact on everyone she encountered.
Kevin Arkadie
Kevin Arkadie, a trailblazing screenwriter and producer, was celebrated for his contributions to television, particularly as the co-creator of the groundbreaking series New York Undercover. Born on December 10, 1957, in Washington, D.C., Arkadie initially pursued acting but transitioned to writing to challenge stereotypes in media. His career spanned decades, with notable work on acclaimed shows like NYPD Blue, The Shield, and Chicago Hope, earning him two Emmy nominations.
New York Undercover, which debuted in 1994, was a milestone in television history, being the first U.S. cop drama to feature two actors of color in lead roles. Arkadie was also known for his work on The Temptations miniseries and as a showrunner for Sacrifice and Ambitions. His storytelling often highlighted underrepresented voices and authentic cultural narratives.
Arkadie passed away on December 17, 2025, at the age of 68, due to complications from pneumonia following a kidney transplant. Remembered as a champion of diversity and a mentor to many, his legacy endures through the impactful stories he brought to life.
Betty Reid Soskin
Betty Reid Soskin, the oldest National Park Ranger, died on Sunday December 21st at age 104. In 2000, she found herself assisting with the launch of the Rosie the Riveter/WWII Home Front National Historical Park in Richmond, while working as an aide to Dion Aroner, a California assemblywoman. Her experiences during WWII were pivotal to the park’s creation. “I was the only person of color in the room,” Soskin told Newsweek.
In 2015, she introduced President Barack Obama during the lighting of the National Christmas Tree, where she received a commemorative presidential coin. During the tree lighting, she carried a photo of her great-grandmother, Leontine Breaux Allen, who was born into slavery.
On her 100th birthday, Betty Reid Soskin retired from the National Park Service. That same day, the West Contra Costa Unified School District renamed El Sobrante’s Juan Crespi Middle School to Betty Reid Soskin Middle School. “I don’t know what one might do to justify a long life,” she said during the renaming ceremony. “I think that you have pretty much got it made.”
Soskin is survived by her son, her daughters, Diara Melitte, Kitty Reid, and Dorian Leon Reid, five grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and three nieces.
UPDATED: 1:00 pm EST, December 30th, 2025
Smallwood’s career took off in 1977 when he founded the Richard Smallwood Singers, a group that brought a contemporary edge to gospel music. Their debut album spent an astounding 87 weeks on Billboard’s Spiritual Albums chart, and their 1984 release, Psalms, earned a GRAMMY® nomination. Hits like “Center of My Joy” and “Total Praise” showcased Smallwood’s ability to blend classical influences with gospel fervor, creating a sound that appealed to young, educated Black audiences and beyond. His music was embraced by mainstream artists, with Whitney Houston, Destiny’s Child, and Boyz II Men recording his compositions.
In the late 1980s, the Richard Smallwood Singers became the first gospel group to tour the Soviet Union, further cementing their global impact. Smallwood later formed Vision, a large choir that produced hits like “Angels” and the iconic “Total Praise,” a song born from personal trials that became a universal anthem of faith and resilience.
Smallwood’s career took off in 1977 when he founded the Richard Smallwood Singers, a group that brought a contemporary edge to gospel music. Their debut album spent an astounding 87 weeks on Billboard’s Spiritual Albums chart, and their 1984 release, Psalms, earned a GRAMMY® nomination. Hits like “Center of My Joy” and “Total Praise” showcased Smallwood’s ability to blend classical influences with gospel fervor, creating a sound that appealed to young, educated Black audiences and beyond. His music was embraced by mainstream artists, with Whitney Houston, Destiny’s Child, and Boyz II Men recording his compositions.
In the late 1980s, the Richard Smallwood Singers became the first gospel group to tour the Soviet Union, further cementing their global impact. Smallwood later formed Vision, a large choir that produced hits like “Angels” and the iconic “Total Praise,” a song born from personal trials that became a universal anthem of faith and resilience.
Beyond music, Smallwood was a storyteller and minister. His 2019 autobiography, Total Praise, revealed his struggles with grief and depression, offering a candid look at the man behind the music. Despite health challenges in his later years, Smallwood remained a beacon of inspiration, earning three Dove Awards, multiple Stellar Gospel Music Awards, and the enduring love of fans worldwide.
Richard Smallwood’s legacy lives on through his music, which continues to uplift and inspire. He is survived by his family and countless admirers who celebrate his life and contributions to gospel music.
STAY INFORMED! CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER!
Mickey Lee
Mickey Lee, a beloved star from Season 27 of Big Brother, has tragically passed away at the age of 35 due to complications from a cardiac episode. Her family announced the heartbreaking news on her Instagram account, sharing that she succumbed to the health crisis after battling a series of cardiac arrests following severe flu complications.
Mickey Lee, originally from Jacksonville, Florida, and later based in Atlanta, was more than just a reality TV contestant. She was a vibrant force of nature, known for her strategic gameplay, infectious energy, and unwavering authenticity. During her time on Big Brother, she became a fan favorite, representing Black women with strength, grace, and flair. Her presence on the show was a beacon of inspiration, showcasing her resilience and determination in a competitive environment.
Beyond the Big Brother house, Mickey was a creative powerhouse. She worked as an event curator, bringing people together through her innovative ideas and magnetic personality. Her ability to connect with others extended far beyond the screen, leaving a lasting impact on everyone she encountered.
Kevin Arkadie
Kevin Arkadie, a trailblazing screenwriter and producer, was celebrated for his contributions to television, particularly as the co-creator of the groundbreaking series New York Undercover. Born on December 10, 1957, in Washington, D.C., Arkadie initially pursued acting but transitioned to writing to challenge stereotypes in media. His career spanned decades, with notable work on acclaimed shows like NYPD Blue, The Shield, and Chicago Hope, earning him two Emmy nominations.
New York Undercover, which debuted in 1994, was a milestone in television history, being the first U.S. cop drama to feature two actors of color in lead roles. Arkadie was also known for his work on The Temptations miniseries and as a showrunner for Sacrifice and Ambitions. His storytelling often highlighted underrepresented voices and authentic cultural narratives.
Arkadie passed away on December 17, 2025, at the age of 68, due to complications from pneumonia following a kidney transplant. Remembered as a champion of diversity and a mentor to many, his legacy endures through the impactful stories he brought to life.
Betty Reid Soskin
Betty Reid Soskin, the oldest National Park Ranger, died on Sunday December 21st at age 104. In 2000, she found herself assisting with the launch of the Rosie the Riveter/WWII Home Front National Historical Park in Richmond, while working as an aide to Dion Aroner, a California assemblywoman. Her experiences during WWII were pivotal to the park’s creation. “I was the only person of color in the room,” Soskin told Newsweek.
In 2015, she introduced President Barack Obama during the lighting of the National Christmas Tree, where she received a commemorative presidential coin. During the tree lighting, she carried a photo of her great-grandmother, Leontine Breaux Allen, who was born into slavery.
On her 100th birthday, Betty Reid Soskin retired from the National Park Service. That same day, the West Contra Costa Unified School District renamed El Sobrante’s Juan Crespi Middle School to Betty Reid Soskin Middle School. “I don’t know what one might do to justify a long life,” she said during the renaming ceremony. “I think that you have pretty much got it made.”
Soskin is survived by her son, her daughters, Diara Melitte, Kitty Reid, and Dorian Leon Reid, five grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and three nieces.
Source: Reach Media / Urban One
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.
UPDATED: 1:00 pm EST, December 30th, 2025
Smallwood’s career took off in 1977 when he founded the Richard Smallwood Singers, a group that brought a contemporary edge to gospel music. Their debut album spent an astounding 87 weeks on Billboard’s Spiritual Albums chart, and their 1984 release, Psalms, earned a GRAMMY® nomination. Hits like “Center of My Joy” and “Total Praise” showcased Smallwood’s ability to blend classical influences with gospel fervor, creating a sound that appealed to young, educated Black audiences and beyond. His music was embraced by mainstream artists, with Whitney Houston, Destiny’s Child, and Boyz II Men recording his compositions.
In the late 1980s, the Richard Smallwood Singers became the first gospel group to tour the Soviet Union, further cementing their global impact. Smallwood later formed Vision, a large choir that produced hits like “Angels” and the iconic “Total Praise,” a song born from personal trials that became a universal anthem of faith and resilience.
Smallwood’s career took off in 1977 when he founded the Richard Smallwood Singers, a group that brought a contemporary edge to gospel music. Their debut album spent an astounding 87 weeks on Billboard’s Spiritual Albums chart, and their 1984 release, Psalms, earned a GRAMMY® nomination. Hits like “Center of My Joy” and “Total Praise” showcased Smallwood’s ability to blend classical influences with gospel fervor, creating a sound that appealed to young, educated Black audiences and beyond. His music was embraced by mainstream artists, with Whitney Houston, Destiny’s Child, and Boyz II Men recording his compositions.
In the late 1980s, the Richard Smallwood Singers became the first gospel group to tour the Soviet Union, further cementing their global impact. Smallwood later formed Vision, a large choir that produced hits like “Angels” and the iconic “Total Praise,” a song born from personal trials that became a universal anthem of faith and resilience.
Beyond music, Smallwood was a storyteller and minister. His 2019 autobiography, Total Praise, revealed his struggles with grief and depression, offering a candid look at the man behind the music. Despite health challenges in his later years, Smallwood remained a beacon of inspiration, earning three Dove Awards, multiple Stellar Gospel Music Awards, and the enduring love of fans worldwide.
Richard Smallwood’s legacy lives on through his music, which continues to uplift and inspire. He is survived by his family and countless admirers who celebrate his life and contributions to gospel music.
STAY INFORMED! CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER!
Mickey Lee
Mickey Lee, a beloved star from Season 27 of Big Brother, has tragically passed away at the age of 35 due to complications from a cardiac episode. Her family announced the heartbreaking news on her Instagram account, sharing that she succumbed to the health crisis after battling a series of cardiac arrests following severe flu complications.
Mickey Lee, originally from Jacksonville, Florida, and later based in Atlanta, was more than just a reality TV contestant. She was a vibrant force of nature, known for her strategic gameplay, infectious energy, and unwavering authenticity. During her time on Big Brother, she became a fan favorite, representing Black women with strength, grace, and flair. Her presence on the show was a beacon of inspiration, showcasing her resilience and determination in a competitive environment.
Beyond the Big Brother house, Mickey was a creative powerhouse. She worked as an event curator, bringing people together through her innovative ideas and magnetic personality. Her ability to connect with others extended far beyond the screen, leaving a lasting impact on everyone she encountered.
Kevin Arkadie
Kevin Arkadie, a trailblazing screenwriter and producer, was celebrated for his contributions to television, particularly as the co-creator of the groundbreaking series New York Undercover. Born on December 10, 1957, in Washington, D.C., Arkadie initially pursued acting but transitioned to writing to challenge stereotypes in media. His career spanned decades, with notable work on acclaimed shows like NYPD Blue, The Shield, and Chicago Hope, earning him two Emmy nominations.
New York Undercover, which debuted in 1994, was a milestone in television history, being the first U.S. cop drama to feature two actors of color in lead roles. Arkadie was also known for his work on The Temptations miniseries and as a showrunner for Sacrifice and Ambitions. His storytelling often highlighted underrepresented voices and authentic cultural narratives.
Arkadie passed away on December 17, 2025, at the age of 68, due to complications from pneumonia following a kidney transplant. Remembered as a champion of diversity and a mentor to many, his legacy endures through the impactful stories he brought to life.
Betty Reid Soskin
Betty Reid Soskin, the oldest National Park Ranger, died on Sunday December 21st at age 104. In 2000, she found herself assisting with the launch of the Rosie the Riveter/WWII Home Front National Historical Park in Richmond, while working as an aide to Dion Aroner, a California assemblywoman. Her experiences during WWII were pivotal to the park’s creation. “I was the only person of color in the room,” Soskin told Newsweek.
In 2015, she introduced President Barack Obama during the lighting of the National Christmas Tree, where she received a commemorative presidential coin. During the tree lighting, she carried a photo of her great-grandmother, Leontine Breaux Allen, who was born into slavery.
On her 100th birthday, Betty Reid Soskin retired from the National Park Service. That same day, the West Contra Costa Unified School District renamed El Sobrante’s Juan Crespi Middle School to Betty Reid Soskin Middle School. “I don’t know what one might do to justify a long life,” she said during the renaming ceremony. “I think that you have pretty much got it made.”
Soskin is survived by her son, her daughters, Diara Melitte, Kitty Reid, and Dorian Leon Reid, five grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and three nieces.
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
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