The legacy of these celebrities will live on and continue to inspire us. Let us be grateful for that and remember those we’ve lost.
Richard Harrison
The Pawn Stars co-owner died after battling Parkinson’s disease for a couple of years. His son Rick was by his side. A few years ago, Richard Harrison commented on his show “I’m glad that we can take and give a little enjoyment to anyone when they catch the show.” Harrison was certainly one of a kind. I sincerely share our condolences with the family.
Anthony Bourdain
The world was shocked when it was announced on June 8th, that celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain had passed away at the age of 61 of an apparent suicide. He was a gifted chef and storyteller who used his books and shows to explore culture cuisine and the human condition. Bourdain was in France working on an upcoming episode of his award-winning CNN series ‘Parts Unknown.’ His close friend Eric Ripert, the French chef found Bourdain unresponsive in his hotel room.
Reg E. Cathey
Reg E. Cathy known for his distinctive baritone voice. Reginald Eugene Cathey started his career in a television movie ‘A Doctor Story.’ His most recent fame was for the role of Freddie in the drama series ‘House of Cards.’ Cathey even won an Emmy for Outstanding Guest Actor in house of cards. He was 59 and had reportedly been battling cancer.
David Ogden Stiers
We remember Mr. stiers from the TV comedy mash for his role as major Charles Emerson Winchester the third. He died at the age of 75, peacefully at his home in Newport Oregon after a courageous battle with bladder cancer. The MKS talent agency tweeted “His talent was only surpassed by his heart” the agency added.
Stephen Hawking
The brilliant and extraordinary mind of Stephen Hawking led to a turning point in the history of modern physics. In his memoir, Hawking described how he felt when first diagnosed with motor neuron disease, “At the time, I thought my life was over and that I would never realize the potential I felt I had. But now, 50 years later, I can be quietly satisfied with my life.” After his quiet death, the world remembers his courage, persistence, brilliance, and humor, that inspired people across the world.
The Rapper XxxTentacion
XxxTentacion real name Jahseh Onfroy was shot in an apparent robbery at a motorcycle dealership. He was only 20. XxxTentacion was famous for his first two hip-hop albums and singles, sad and changes. The rapper was expecting a baby with his girlfriend when he was murdered. “He left us a final gift” Cleopatra Bernard wrote on Instagram next to an ultrasound picture of the unborn child.
Kate Spade
Kate who created an iconic accessible handbag line, tragically took her own life. The fashion designer had more than 140 retail shops and outlet stores across the United States and more than 175 stores internationally. She and her husband Andy were the founders of the beloved brand but over time, she distanced herself from the business. She was a great talent who had an immeasurable impact on American fashion and the way the world viewed American accessories.
Daryle Singletary
Country singer Daryle Singletary died unexpectedly at his home in Lebanon Tennessee. He was 46 years old. He was best known for his hits, too much fun and ‘I let her lie’ from his debut album as well as The note and Amen kind of love. Fans enjoyed the musicians live performances and grieved with the singers family.
Jerry Van Dyke
Jerry Van Dyke after decades in show business, recently playing a role in the ABC sitcom coach. Jerry Van Dyke died at the age of 86. Jerry’s wife Shirley said his health had deteriorated since a traffic accident in 2015. Van Dyke was the younger brother of actor Dick Van Dyke, known for the musical films Mary Poppins and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. After an early career in stand-up comedy, the jr. Van Dyke turned to acting which became his lifelong passion.
Bobby Zarin
Jill Zarin’s husband Bobby passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family after a courageous battle with cancer. His stepdaughter Ally Shapiro remembered him in a touching Instagram post, sharing a gallery of photos of the two over the years. She wrote “Thank you for giving me such a wonderful family and being the most incredible step-dad anyone could ever ask for.” Last January, Jill and Bobby celebrated their 16th wedding anniversary. She posted photos of them and stated that she will be fighting with him till the end and they surely did fight together.
Connie Sawyer
Connie Sawyer who was the oldest working actress in Hollywood, has died at 105. She was a loving mother and had a large extended family that she always kept in contact with. Sawyer also built a family in the industry she loved. Her big break came in 1957 after the Broadway comedy ‘A hole in the head.’ She never stopped working and Sawyer said she was perfectly happy not becoming a major star. Sawyer once said “Frankie (Sinatra) told me ‘Never give up and you’ll always find a good part somewhere, sometime.’ and I did.”
Dushon Monique Brown
Two months after Dushon Monique Brown passed away, it was revealed that she died from an infection of the blood. The actress was mostly loved for her role in Chicago Fire. She also had guest roles in Empire, the US version of Shameless and the recently filmed TV project, Public Housing Unit. She brought laughter and joy to many and will be greatly missed.
Margot Kidder
The Superman actress died at 69. According to her manager, Margot died peacefully in her sleep. Kidder’s starred opposite Clark Kent in the original film as well as the three sequels. After three marriages and thousands of dollars in medical bills, Kidder found herself homeless in 1996 as she struggled with bipolar disorder. Her story grabbed the hearts of fans and Hollywood with many reaching out to help Kidder who eventually got back on her feet and went on to become a mental health advocate.