Homegoing

Joyah Lashaun Flemister, age 38, had a loving, pure, kind, and giving spirit. Ms. Flemister was employed at Tyson Foods for 20 years and is remembered for having the most infectious smile. Ms. Flemister passed away on July 16, 2020. Source: Tribute Archive  

Tim ‘Busdriver’ Lester, age 52, was a former NFL fullback for the Steelers and the founder of the ‘Pigskin Academy’. Lester earned his name in his NFL career as the ‘Bus Driver’ when he blocked for Steelers star Jerome Bettis, who was nicknamed ‘The Bus’. After his career, Lester lead a life of serving others and his community in Georgia. He went into the ministry. He worked to feed those in need for Thanksgiving. He helped brighten Christmas for over 5,000 children living in public housing through the ‘Toys for Tots’ program. He also founded a non-profit organization called the Pigskin Academy to mentor, tutor, train and prepare at-risk athletes for success in all walks of life. Lester was also a dedicated family man to his children and wife Natalie. He passed away on January 12, 2021. Source: The Guardian

Dr. Irving Pressley McPhail, age 71, had big plans for Saint Augustine’s University, the private, historically black university in Raleigh, N.C. where he had been hired to lead as President. Dr. McPhail grew up in Harlem, and devoted over fifteen years of his life working in higher education. For 36 hours in 1969, Dr. McPhail, a master’s student at the time, and other members of the Afro-American Society participated in an armed occupation of Cornell University’s student union that brought a reckoning of students’ demands. Dr. McPhail passed away October 15, 2020.

Source: The Chronicle of Higher Education

Michelle Abernathy, age 52, spent decades investigating child abuse and neglect while holding night jobs mentoring children. Growing up in Chicago’s Chatham neighborhood, Ms. Abernathy “was always trying to help somebody”, her mother said. A supervisor at a state-run facility for developmentally disabled adults, Ms. Abernathy bought clothes, games, and snacks for residents. Ms. Abernathy passed away on April 13, 2020. 

Source: The Guardian

Darrin Adams, age 51, was a Wayne State University student and custodian. Outside of his involvement at WSU, Adams worked with the AmeriCorps Urban Safety (AMUS) program for two years. During that time, Adams coordinated boarding up more than 200 vacant and abandoned homes in Detroit to improve public safety. Mr. Adams passed away on April 3, 2020, and received his posthumous bachelor of arts degree in sociology from the university. 

Source: Detroit Free Press

Edna Adams, age 105, defied expectations her entire life. Born in 1914, Ms. Adams lived to see the other side of the 1918 flu pandemic, women’s suffrage, the Great Depression, and two world wars. Ms. Adams worked for more than two decades as a sales associate at a department store. Ms. Adams was a woman of faith and conviction who devotedly attended Sunday services at Rock Creek Baptist Church. Ms. Adams passed away in April 2020. 

Source: Washington Post

Falneshia Adams, age 49, made people laugh. Ms. Adams' “passion for people” inspired her to go to school for hotel management at Bethune-Cookman University in Florida and take an environmental services job at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia where she worked for about 25 years. Ms. Adams died on May 16, 2020. 

Source: WHYY

Tommie Adams, age 71, was a mover and later a moving estimator, and worked for more than 25 years for J. Bradtke Antique Movers in Chicago. Mr. Adams moved to the city during the Great Migration. "He got along well with people," said his wife "He was humorous...He liked people a lot.” Mr. Adams died on April 8, 2020. 

Source: Chicago Tribune

Jonathan Adewumi, age 57, was proud of his Nigerian heritage so brought Africa to New York and, at his Brooklyn restaurant, united a community. “Jonathan had a unique way of making everyone feel at home like they belong,” said a former deputy mayor of Newark. Mr. Adewumi died on April 17, 2020.

Source: New York Times

Coby “Terrell” Adolph, age 44, was an adventurer whose idea of a good time was to ride his Harley-Davidson motorcycle to the Mexican border or jet off to Europe. Mr. Adolph was also an entrepreneur who built two entirely different businesses, as well as a gentle-hearted mentor and friend. Mr. Adolph, a Chicagoan, died April 3, 2020. “He enjoyed his life to the fullest,” said a childhood friend.

Source: Chicago Tribune

Felicia Ailende, age 67, was a registered nurse and beacon of unity to her family and members of Maranatha Chapel in Illinois, where she was a minister. An immigrant from Nigeria, Ms. Ailende planted a garden each year and used the produce to cook West African dishes. When there were too many cucumbers, hot peppers or greens, Ms. Ailende shared with neighbors. Ms. Ailende passed away on April 20, 2020.

Source: The Guardian

Calvin Akins, age 73, was a veteran of the Army. He was fond of visiting local Veterans Affairs hospitals or facilities and interacting with other vets. “He would have a conversation with anyone he came across,” said his son. “He was very sociable, very funny, and very charismatic. If anybody had any trouble, he always took time to help.” Mr. Akins passed away on August 7, 2020.

Source: Philadelphia Inquirer

Quen Agbor Ako, age 53, was known to wear stylish, bright clothing and break out in song and dance. Born in Cameroon, Ms. Ako earned her nursing degree in the US and worked for a chain of nursing homes and rehabilitation centers. Ms. Ako passed away from COVIS-19 on April 10, 2020.

Source: The Guardian

Joseph Alexander, age 95, joined the Marine Corps when he was 19 years old. Though 70 years late, Alexander finally received recognition for his service when, in 2019, he was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal for helping end segregation in the U.S. military by joining the Marines’ first African American unit. He passed away on April 7, 2020.

Source: LA Times

Julia Alexander, age 82, was a retired teacher and San Diego school administrator now living in Upland and had plans to travel the world. Already, she and her daughter had been to China, Brazil, and Australia. “She was the life of the party,” said her son. For over 30 years with the San Diego Unified School District, Ms. Alexander taught a variety of subjects, before becoming a vice-principal at Nye Elementary, where she retired in 2002. Ms. Alexander passed away on April 2, 2020.

Source: LA Times

Before she became ill with the coronavirus, Candace Allen was no stranger to 18-hour shifts. She commuted an hour to work and slept as little as three hours a night for weeks on end. Ms. Allen spent her days off with her grandchildren and caring for her elderly mother. She could light up a dark room, her son said, adding that his mother “never met a stranger” in over 20 years in nursing. She passed away from complications due to COVID-19 at the age of 52.

Holmes R. Allen, Jr., known as “Sonny,” loved to go fishing. Mr. Allen was a comedian in his own right, but he could also be stern when he needed to be. Mr. Allen passed away on May 5, 2020.

Source: Cremation PA

Marlon Alston, age 46, was an entrepreneur, a musician, a family man, a servant of his church, a politically savvy guardian of his neighborhood, and a near-constant presence at the school where he worked as a bus driver and security guard. “He was just an all-around good guy,” said his wife. Mr. Alston died on April 7, 2020. 

Source: Chicago Tribune

Francisca Amponsah, age 49, was a fixture in her New Jersey community. Ms. Amponsah had studied accounting in Ghana but became a certified nursing assistant in the United States so she could work night shifts and care for her three children during the day. Ms. Amponsah also made time to lead her local parent-teacher association and teach Sunday school. Ms. Amponsah passed away on April 8, 2020.

Source: The Guardian

Femi Nilaja Anderson, age 48, is often described as the modern-day renaissance woman by those that she knew. Friends described her as an unstoppable, caring, and very artistic woman that gave her life to her business, The Renaissance Art Cafe, and to the City of Albany. Ms. Anderson died in March 2020.

Source: WALB News 10

James “Mike” Anderson, age 51, had a low-profile but critical job: changing air filters in the rooms of patients, including those treated for COVID-19. As he wheeled patients through hallways or responded to maintenance calls, Mr. Anderson was “gregarious,” said a hospital volunteer. Remembered for having “a personality larger than life,” Mr. Anderson had “immeasurable” pride in his son and daughter, ages five and nine. He passed away on April 13, 2020. 

Source: The Guardian

Carol Ann Brown, age 71, was a winner of the Macomb County Volunteer of the year award. Mrs. Brown aslo was very active in her church and loved to cook, sew, and sing. She passed away April 1, 2020. Source: Detriot Free Pass

Christine Armour, age 88, had a “heart of gold” and loved spending time with her family, according to her granddaughter. Ms. Armour was a South Florida resident for more than 30 years, a retired post office employee, and a frequent volunteer at a local food pantry. Ms. Armour later started her own business, sewing and designing African clothes. Ms. Armour died on March 21, 2020.

Source: South Florida Sun-Sentinel

Gregori Armstrong, age 66, was a Chicago Ironworker who helped build his hometown for four decades. Mr. Armstrong also enjoyed fixing things and taking care of loved ones. Mr. Armstrong died on June 3, 2020. 

Source: New York Times

DJ Sha King Arrindell, age 34, was a well-known Aruban entertainer. Mr. Arrindel passed away in April 2020.

Source: The Daily Herald

Ruth C. Arrington, age 67, passed away on May 1, 2020.

Source: Echovita

Yaw A. Asante, age 60, liked going home to Ghana with a barrel full of gifts every spring. Mr. Asante, a registered nurse and NYSNA member at Lincoln Hospital, passed away on April 6, 2020.

Source: New York Times

  Source:  The Undefeated

Yvonne Powell Atkinson, age 72, was a beloved early childhood educator in Erie and Pittsburgh for nearly 50 years. Ms. Atkinson had a unique ability to connect to children — especially toddlers. Ms. Atkinson worked for 15 years as director of Early Childhood Education at the Children’s Museum. The “Tot-Time” program that Ms. Atkinson developed at the museum won national recognition for its blend of sensory play, music, and movement, especially the “Shake Your Sillies Out,” dance. “She was the best,” said her son. Ms. Atkinson passed away on June 22, 2020. Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette  

Barnard Atta, age 61, worked overtime as a nurse at the Correctional Reception Center in Orient, Ohio so that he could afford to send gifts to his family who lived in his hometown, Offindo, Ghana.  Mr. Atta died at home in Galena, Ohio on May 17, 2020 leaving behind his wife, four children, and grandchildren.

Source: The Guardian

Source:  WHIO  

Ibrahima Ba, was a member of Teamsters Local 237 chapter and a campus security assistant at Kingsboro Community College. Mr. Ba passed away in 2020. Source: Teamsters NYC  

Earl Bailey, age 56, was a nurse who worked for a staffing company and was assigned to multiple hospitals. Mr. Bailey had five children and five grandchildren. Mr. Bailey died on April 5, 2020.

Source: South Florida Sun-Sentinel

Ms. Bailey, age 63, was a retired nurse from Illinois and one of nine siblings in a tightknit family. Ms. Bailey died on March 25, 2020. 

Source: Chicago Tribune

Gerald “Gerry” Baker, age 64, was planning to retire from his three-decade career with the Camden County Board of Social Services, but it was doubtful he would slow down. “There was not a moment Gerry wasn’t moving and doing,” said his widow. Mr. Baker was part of the game-day staff at Lincoln Financial Field, where he worked part-time as a stadium usher. Mr. Baker died on May 3, 2020.

Source: WHYY

Maryann Baker, age 77, lived a life filled with love. Ms. Baker worked in patient accounts at Jacobi Hospital for 30 years. Though Ms. Baker retired 20 years ago, she never lost her zest for life. Ms. Baker loved to drive, travel around the country, and sing and dance at family celebrations. "She was a person that loved to live life, to be a support to her family, her friends, and her church family," said her niece. Ms. Baker passed away in March 2020. 

Source: Spectrum News

Marilyn Deloris Alston, age 89, was a longtime teacher, social worker, and geriatric specialist who was committed to helping others. Mrs. Alston was also the widow of former Philadelphia school board president and Beech Companies CEO Floyd W. Alston. They were married for 62 years until his death in 2012. A 40-year member of Grace Baptist Church of Germantown, Mrs. Alston was a voracious reader, a cook who loved to entertain and a woman with an enormous group of friends. She also enjoyed dancing and social clubs with her husband. She was active with the Sigma Shadows, which is affiliated with Sigma Pi Phi fraternity, Klub Tempo, and the Philly Forties. Ms. Alston passed away on May 2, 2020.

Source: The Philadelphia Inquirer

   Monique Baldridge, age 52, was more than a mom. Ms. Baldridge was best friends with her daughter and the matriarch of a large family. With five children and 14 grandchildren, Ms. Baldrige loved laughing with her family. In her free time, Ms. Baldridge would play cards by herself at the table and often fill the house with Prince songs. Ms. Baldridge passed away on March 27, 2020. Source: Detroit Free Press

Demetria “Demi” Bannister, age 28, was a third-grade teacher. "Intelligent, kind-hearted, thoughtful, loving, smiling, high-spirited, the life of the party, incredible ... anything positive, that's what she was," said her cousin. Ms. Bannister passed away in Spetember 2020.

Source: WTLX News 19

Shirley Bannister, age 57, was the Department Chair for Nursing at Midlands Tech and called nursing her “God-given passion.” Ms. Bannister passed away in September 2020.

Source: Live 5 News

Albert Barber, age 39, was "a dynamic preacher and awesome musician" as well as the beloved husband of community activist, Latresa Rice. Mr. Barber died on April 2, 2020, at Pontiac General Hospital in Michigan.

Source: WXYZ Detroit

Richard E. Barber Sr., age 80, was a senior deacon at the First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens in New Jersey. Mr. Barber was also a former deputy executive director of the NAACP, and participated in the student protests in Greensboro, North Carolina in 1960. Mr. Barber passed away in the spring of 2020. 

Source: ABC News

Laneeka "Nikki" Barksdale, age 47, was a popular virtuoso on the dance floor in the Detroit ballroom scene. Known for her gliding, Ms. Barksdale had mastered bop, stepping, hustles, and other difficult ballroom steps. Ms. Barksdale also worked as a bartender for many years, most recently at the MGM Grand Detroit hotel, and was recently driving for Lyft. Ms. Barksdale passed away on March 23, 2020.

Source: New York Times

Kejuane Bates, age 36, was a Vidalia police officer. Mr. Bates served as a DARE officer and school resources officer. Mr. Bates also pastored the Forest Aid Baptist Church. Mr. Bates passed away on April 1, 2020.

Source: The Drum 

Angeline Bernadel, age 52, was a nurse at West River Healthcare Center in Milford, Connecticut who loved caring for patients. She was described as "devoted" to her patients and work. Ms. Bernadel died on April 4, 2020.

Source: Hartford Courant

Idris Bey, age 60, was a popular instructor at the Fire Department’s Emergency Medical academy and an NYC emergency worker. “He was there during 9/11 when those buildings came down,” said a close friend. Mr. Bey, a 27-year veteran of the Fire Department’s Emergency Medical Services bureau, passed away on April 22, 2020.

Source: New York Times

Billy W. Birmingham Sr. (Bill), age, 69 was an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and lifelong resident of Kansas City, Missouri died . He died as a hero by giving his life in the line of duty to the citizens of Kansas City and his fellow first responders while doing what he loved; which was helping others. He was also a husband, father grandfather, and great grandfather. Mr. Birmingham died in Kansas City, Missouri on April, 13, 2020.

Source: Lee's Summit Tribune

Rafael Leonardo Black, age 71, was a self-trained artist who spent more than 40 years creating elaborate pictorial mythologies steeped in art history and popular culture. Mr. Black had his first New York gallery show at age 64. Mr. Black died on May 15, 2020.

Source: New York Times

Marjorie Blackman, age 67, was a nurse in a Florida hospital for the last 15 years. Ms. Blackman got her nursing degree in her fifties and commuted 3 hours a day to treat her patients who were like her second family. Ms. Blackman passed away in April 2020. 

Source: Fox 13 News

Rev. Harry Blake, age 85, survived an assassin’s bullet, a police beating, and unjust arrests in Shreveport in the early 1960s as he fought for Black people to gain equal rights. Rev. Blake was a go-to person in Shreveport for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during that era. Afterward, Rev. Blake spent decades pushing for better education, health care, and housing in his community as pastor of Mt. Canaan Baptist Church in Louisiana. Rev. Blake, who had just retired from the church, died in April 2020.

Source: The Advocate

Terry Blanchard, age 56, was an entrepreneur who was known for his work mentoring at-risk youth. Mr. Blanchard was also known for his big heart. “He had an amazing sense of humor. He made everybody laugh," said his daughter. Mr. Blanchard passed away in the spring of 2020.

Source: Fox KTVU

Scott Blanks, age 34, was dental assistant who seemed to be able to tackle anything in life with good humor. Mr. Blanks loved to dance and sing with friends. Mr. Blanks died on March 27, 2020.

Source: LA Times

Dorothy Boles, age 65, had two callings: one as a healer and the other as an ordained minister. Mama Boles, as she was known, was a counselor and caretaker, said a longtime friend and colleague. Ms. Boles mentored aspiring ministers at First Chosen Tabernacle church and welcomed patients into her home when they didn’t have the means to recover on their own. Ms. Boles died on April 3, 2020.

Source: The Guardian

Jane Elizabeth Boston Jordan, age 78, taught in the Philadelphia School district for more than three decades. Ms. Jordan spent her free time rooting for the Eagles and the Phillies, reading, singing gospel with her sorority sisters, and attending jazz concerts all across the country. Ms. Jordan passed away on June 12, 2020.

Source: WHYY

Julius Bowens, age 72, was a "very laid back guy" who loved to sit on his porch and chat with neighbors. "Everyone who knew him loved him," said his daughter.  

Source: CNN

Mercia Bowser, age 64, spent her life helping children, older people and people with behavior disorders while working for Catholic Charities and the city’s Office on Aging. The sister of Washington, DC Mayor Muriel Bowser, Ms. Bowser tried to match needs — of people who were homeless, addicted, disabled — with assistance during the pandemic. Those who knew Ms. Bowser described her as selfless and determined. Ms. Bowser passed away on February 24, 2021.

Source:  New York Times  

Sean Boynes, age 46, was a natural comedian and loving father who always knew when any of “his girls” — his daughters, his wife or his mother — needed a hug. Mr. Boynes was a pharmacy manager and never gave less than all of his effort. Mr. Boynes died on April 2, 2020. 

Source: Washington Post

Timothy Branscomb, age 32, worked as a security guard at three different physicians’ offices. As an essential employee, Branscomb continued to work through the pandemic. Mr. Branscomb died on April 6, 2020, leaving behind his fiancée and a 12-year-old daughter.

Source: Chicago Tribune

   Silas Walter Brister Sr., age 80, was known for his smile and for giving those around him a good laugh. Born in Mississippi, Mr. Brister moved from the South in 1972 and was a resident of Detroit for more than 30 years. Mr. Brister received perfect attendance awards year after year when he worked at Ford Motor Co. and was known for helping others. The Bristers owned several businesses in Detroit, including Dorothy's Golden Touch Beauty Salon and Southern Kitchen restaurant. “Pops” or “Dizzle” as the grandchildren called him, loved family picnics and barbecues. Mr. Brister died on April 3, 2020. Source: Detroit Free Press

Bishop Phillip A. Brooks, age 88, senior pastor of New St. Paul Tabernacle Church of God in Christ was a beloved statesman who played an influential role in the lives of many people over the years. He was the first African American minister to appear on television in Detroit with the launch of the March of Faith Television Broadcast in 1978. Bishop Brooks was also first assistant presiding bishop of the Church of God in Christ, the largest black Christian denomination in the nation with an estimated membership of 6.5 million. Bishop Brooks died on April 9, 2020.

Source: Detroit News

Abraham Emanuel Brown (Bram), age 85, a devoted family man and farmer, died on Sunday, May 3, 2020. Nicknamed “The Callaloo Man,” Brown was known for growing callaloo in Jamaica and Philadelphia. According to his family, he prided himself on being a sharp dresser and was proud of the roughness of his hands because it symbolized how hard he worked throughout his life

Source: Philadelphia Tribune

Doris Brown, age 79, met her husband Tommie when she was 18 years old. They married in 1958 and remained inseparable, “like peanut butter and jelly,” ever since. Ms. Brown died on April 9, 2020. Ms. Brown's husband passed away less than twelve hours later. 

Source: Washington Post

Gwendolyn Brown, age 68, was Manatee County’s first African American commissioner. Ms. Brown was elected in 1994 and sered her district until 2010. Ms. Brown had a passion for education and taught as an adjunct professor at State College of Florida as well as teaching Early Childhood and Management Classes at Headstart, where she also served as executive director from 1991 until 2002. Ms. Brown passed away in the spring of 2020.

Source: Sarasota Herald-Tribune

Keith Brown, age 48, worked for 17 years in EMS for many local agencies, most recently for MedTrust medical transport. “Keith is the life of the party. He just loved his family and wanted everyone taken care of before taking care of himself,” said his wife. Mr. Brown passed away on September 2, 2020. 

Source: LIVE 5 WCSC

Shonda Brown, age 46, was a store manager of a Taco Bell in Denham Springs, Louisiana. Ms. Brown passed on July 15, 2020.

Source: The Advocate

Tommie Brown, age 82, and his wife Doris were married for nearly 62 years. “It was like peanut butter and jelly, their complementary aspects,” said a family member. Mr. Brown passed away on April 9, 2020, less than 12 hours after his wife succumbed to the virus.

Source: Washington Post

Janie Lou Brown, age 81, seemed to always have a smile on her face. Pictures of her and her family posted online show that Ms. Brown was a woman who had a large, loving family who enjoyed nothing more than to be surrounded by them. Mrs. Brown passed away on April 23, 2020. 

Source: The Florida Times-Union 

Mary Louise Brown Morgan, age 78, kept a garden full of rose bushes and just about every kind of fruit tree, from plums to satsuma oranges to kumquats. In addition to her gardening, Ms. Morgan raised chickens, giving away eggs to friends and family. Ms. Morgan was also a regular churchgoer, frequent volunteer, and had a giving spirit. Ms. Morgan died on March 27, 2020.

Source: NOLA.com

Dr. Lloyd Thomas Bowser Jr., age 56, was a Baltimore podiatrist known for making house calls to elderly diabetic patients. Dr. Bowser was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. and active in fitness training. Dr. Bowser died on November 13, 2020. Source: The Washington Informer  

Nellie Brummitt-Shaw, age 85, was a longtime teacher and activist in Detriot, MI. Mrs. Nellie was also a fighter. She raised her four kids on her own while going to school and marched with Martin Luther King Junior in Birmingham. She passed away in April of  2020. Source: Detroit Free Press 

Brittany Bruner-Ringo, age 32, was described as "everything a nurse should be - kind empathetic and committed to her career because it was her passion." The first employee infected in an outbreak at a dementia care facility in West Los Angeles, Ms. Bruner-Ringo called and texted colleagues who fell ill, encouraging them to keep a good attitude and reassuring them that they were all going to be ok. Ms. Bruner-Ringo passed away on April 20, 2020.

Source: LA Times

Dr. Geraldine H. Buckingham, age 84, passed away on December 11, 2020.

Source: Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

Lois Bullock, age 80, was a member of one of Rockland County's largest and most well-respected families. A longtime educator in the Nyack schools who was active in her church, Ms. Bullock died on April 3, 2020. She was one of three family members to succumb to the virus that month.

Source: Lohud

Kevin Bundy, age 33, loved being a paramedic. “He was a jovial person, always looking at the bright side of things,” said a friend. Mr. Bundy passed away on April 12, 2020.

Source: The Guardian 

Lisa Burhannan, age 50, could be seen everywhere in Harrisburg. Ms. Burhannan worked in the school district, taught classes at the prison and served meals to the homeless. Ms. Burhannan supervised a re-entry home for women and volunteered as a hospital chaplain. Even after Ms. Burhannan came down with COVID-19 in late May, Ms. Burhannan kept up her efforts, running events and assisting family members from her hospital bed. Ms. Burhannan passed away on June 11, 2020.

Source: Penn Live

Terrance Burke, age 54, was a well-known school counselor, Navy veteran, and basketball coach at the Northwestern High school in Maryland. Mr. Burke passed away in March 2020. 

Source: Washington Post

Ruben Burks, age 86, was the first African American UAW secretary-treasurer with a powerful social justice legacy. Starting as an assembler at the former General Motors Fisher Body Plant 2 in Flint in 1955, Mr. Burks steadily climbed through the ranks with a reputation for strength and integrity. Mr. Burks died on April 6, 2020. 

Source: Detroit Free Press

Charlie Burrell, age 78, was good with one-liners. Known at work for both professionalism and jokes, Mr. Burrell made employees around Seattle’s PBS station KCTS laugh during his decades as a broadcast operations supervisor. Mr. Burrell died on April 11, 2020.

Source: Seattle Times

Schrell Burrell, age 58, was a licensed practical nurse. Ms. Burrell was kind, hardworking, and kept her coworkers "level-headed even when they wanted to go off." Ms. Burrell loved dancing and reading romance novels. Ms. Burrell passed away on January 9, 2021.

Source:  Twitter  

Nathel Burtley, age 79, and his friends jumped into a “whites only” pool to protest segregation in Illinois when they were kids in the 1940s. These childhood experiences fueled Mr. Burtley's work decades later in Michigan, where he helped guide desegregation efforts in Grand Rapids and in 1988 became the first African American to lead Flint’s school system. Mr. Burtley died on April 6, 2020.

Source: Washington Post

Joshua Bush, age 30, was earning a bachelor’s degree in nursing at the University of South Carolina-Aiken. Mr. Bush began his nursing career after high school, eventually ending up at Benton House of Aiken, an assisted living facility. Mr. Bush passed away on April 17, 2020.

Source: Los Angeles Sentinel

Dr. Julie Butler, age 62, owned and operated the 145th Street Animal Hospital and lived by the principle that “if you have it to give, you give,” caring for animals and opening her home to friends in need. Dr. Butler passed away on April 4, 2020.

Source: New York Times

Brittany Butts, age 33, was described as caring and hardworking. She recently finished her Master of Social Work at Troy University. Ms. Butts passed away on July 13, 2020.

Source: ABC WTVM

Jordan Byrd, age 19, was working his way through college as a custodian at a Tallahassee elementary school he once attended and looking forward to a bright future ahead. “He was really smart and friendly,” said a long-time friend. Mr. Byrd passed away in July 2020.

Source: USA Today

Donald C. Anderson, Jr., age 36, of Inkster, MI passed away April 4, 2020.

Source: Husband Family Funeral Home  

Darrell Cager, Sr., age 64, passed away on March 31, 2020. Mr. Cager is survived by his children, twenty grandchildren, a great grandchild, siblings, friends, and loved ones.

Source: NOLA.com

Herman Cain, age 74, was a one-time Republican presidential candidate and former CEO of Godfather's Pizza. Mr. Cain began his corporate career in the mid-70s working for Coca-Cola, went on to work for the Pillsbury Company in 1977, and climbed the corporate ladder. Mr. Cain later led the National Restaurant Association, lobbying on Capitol Hill. Mr. Cain passed away in July 2020. 

Source: CNN

Muriel Callender, age 84, was a retired claims investigator at Citibank after working there for three decades. Ms. Callender was born in Barbados and briefly lived there before immigrating to the U.S. in the 1960s and eventually fell in love with New York City. "Her laugh was infectious and she always made us smile when recounting stories from her life," said her granddaughter. "She had a knack for finding humor in the ordinary and could truly brighten anyone's day." Ms. Callender passed on May 3, 2020. 

Source: ABC News

Ressie Cameron, age 87, loved church and music. As a child in San Jose, Ms. Cameron sang with her sisters on Sunday morning broadcasts of a local radio station. Ms. Cameron went on to become a musical leader in her Pentecostal denomination, the Church of God in Christ. Ms. Cameron died on March 13, 2020. She was 87.

Source: LA Times

James C. Campbell, age 88, was a dapper retired truck driver who took an intense interest in the wider world, most particularly in anything that affected Pleasantville, the historically African-American community where he and his wife raised their kids. For more than 30 years Mr. Campbell served as a deacon at Gethsemane Missionary Baptist and took great pride in his community's high voter turnout. Mr. Campbell passed away on March 31, 2020.

Source: Houston Chronicle 

Me’Lisa Caples-Bridges, age 52, was a licenced practical nurse and travel nurse working in Texas. A nurse for more than 20 years, Ms. Caples-Bridges enjoyed attending church and loved encouraging others with the gospel. Ms. Caples-Bridges passed away on November 26, 2020.

Source:  The Tylertown Times  

Edmon C. Carmichael, age 79, met his wife Gwendolyn during their teenage years in high school, and they remained married for 53 years. Mr. Carmichael, affectionately known as "Clint," joined the Army as a young man, served in the Vietnam War, and later became a deacon in his church. Mr. Carmichael died on April 13, 2020, and his wife passed away the following day. 

Source: Detroit Free Press

Gwendolyn A. Carmichael, age 72, has a master's in social work from Wayne State University, was an esteemed master quilter, and an usher at her church. Ms. Carmichael met her husband Edmon during their teenage years in high school. Ms. Carmichael died on May 14, 2020, a day after her husband also succumbed to the virus.

Source: Detroit Free Press

District Elder-Elect Arthur Gene Carney, Sr, age 74, was a veteran of the Vietnam War and preacher. After retiring from the military, Mr. Carney, Sr. "He spent several years driving the "301" bus from Dover to Wilmington for D.A.R.T, and he absolutely loved driving the school bus and interacting with all the young children during his employment with the Hilton Bus Company." drove a bus. Mr. Careny, Sr died on July 11h, 2020.

Source: Legacy.com 

Herman G. Carrillo, age 59, was a talented pianist, fluent Spanish-speaker, and respected writer. Mr. Carrillo died in the spring of 2020. 

Source: Washington Post

Priscilla Carrow, age 65, was the person to lean on if you had a problem. Ms. Carrow was an advocate for her co-workers at Elmhurst Hospital and a staunch community activist. Ms. Carrow was a coordinating manager at the hospital and planned to retire at the end of the year. Ms. Carrow passed away in the spring of 2020.

Source: Spectrum News NY 1

Darrin Cato, 53, worked as a security guard at Detroit’s Opera House and was cherished by the community he served. “He’d go out of his way to do anything for you,” said his coworker. Known to be a friend to all at the theater, Mr. Cato was also a family man who did home improvement and lawn work, often volunteering his services to people for little or no pay. Mr. Cato died on March 26, 2020.

Source: Detroit Free Press

Cheryl Catron, a civilian administrative aide with the Fairburn Police Department in Georgia, died on April 3, 2020. "She was an important part of our team, someone that worked tirelessly to keep us up and running," the department said. "We are heartbroken here.”

Source: ABC News

   Narvellee Cavitt, age 87, was a matriarch in Detroit, Michigan. Ms. Cavitt was the President of the Wolverine State Baptist Convention of Church Nurses for over 25 years. Ms. Cavitt was well-respected and loved her family and church, her granddaughter said. Ms. Cavitt passed away on April 3, 2020. Source: Detroit Free Press

   Sylvia Cavitt, age 72, loved to cook and host family gatherings. Ms. Cavitt sang in the Historic St. James adult choir in Detroit, Michigan. Ms. Cavitt died on March 23, 2020. Source: Detroit Free Press

Kabwe Chanda, age 40, was the regional manager of the Los Angeles Community College District Information Technology Department. Mr. Chanda started at West Los Angeles College as a student tutor before becoming an instructional assistant and then an assistant computer and network specialist. Mr. Chanda passed away in the spring of 2020.

Source: Valley Star News

Cornell ‘Dickey” Charles, age 51, served as the Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club Governor’s Krewe since 2004 and served illustrious Charge D’Affaire since 2005. Mr. Charles was also Lusher Charter School sports coach. Mr. Charles passed away on March 24, 2020.

Source: The Drum

Stephen Chatman, age 55, brought the attitude, the funk, and the style WYEP-FM was missing in the 1990s. With his best friend of 30 years, Mr. Chatman co-founded “The Soul Show” in 1995. The “big guy” who had a huge smile and “even bigger heart” always brought a good attitude to the show. Mr. Chatman passed away in March 2020. 

Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette 

Angela Chavers, age 44, was Palm Beach Sheriff Office Deputy in Florida. Ms. Chavers faithfully served her community for 18 years in her role in the sheriff's office. She was a mother and aunt to a son and a niece. Ms. Chavers died on September 12, 2020.

Source: 7 News Miami

Gabriel Chinwendu, age 56, is remembered as a gentle man who was dedicated to his work as a psychiatric nurse. “Love for one another was his mission, to care,” said his wife. The couple, who had emigrated from Nigeria years ago, had four children together. Mr. Chinwendu passed away on April 24, 2020.

Source: The Guardian

Sheila Faye Christian, age 66, was a superstar at the nursing and rehab center where she worked for 26 years. Ms. Christian was the kind of person who brought lunch to a new co-worker and hosted a baby shower for someone without close family. Ms. Christian passed away from the virus on April 19, 2020.

Source: The Guardian

Gregory Clark Jr., age 46, spent his life trying to help people. Mr. Clark began a career as a corrections officer in 1998. Mr. Clark died in July 2020. 

Source: Cleveland Metro

Michael Clegg, age 53, was a veteran sergeant with the Newark, New Jersey, police. Mr. Clegg had been a member of the Newark police since May 1993, and died on May 10, 2020.

Source: ABC News

John Clomax Jr., age 62, loved eastern philosophy. He was a patron of the arts, an avid lover of music: from Bach to Biggie and Rock to Opera. He had a passion for movies and loved coding. He was an avid skier, art collector, cigar enthusiast, and Green Bay Packers fan who enjoyed computer gaming. Mr. Clomax passed away on April 8, 2020.

Source: The Village Green

Yolanda Coar, age 40, was a nurse manager in Augusta, Georgia. Ms. Caor passed away in August 2020. Source: KHN  

Source:  MSN  

Myles Coker, age 69, spent just under 23 years incarcerated, and he would call his sons once or twice a week during that time. Mr. Coker received a life sentence in 1994 for dealing heroin, weeks before federal sentencing guidelines were relaxed. Mr. Coker was finally released in 2013 and went on to work for a friend’s pest control company in Queens. Mr. Coker passed away on April 9, 2020. 

Source: New York Times

Roy Chester Coleman, age 64, was an army veteran and emergency medical technician who worked as a housekeeper at the VA hospital in his hometown for the last 11 years. Mr. Coleman was a church deacon, Sunday school teacher, and usher. Mr. Coleman also volunteered with special-needs adults. Mr. Coleman passed away on April 6, 2020.

Source: The Guardian

Cmdr. Donafay Collins, age 63, was a former radio DJ and a member of the Wayne County Police Department for nearly 30 years. Cmdr. Collins died on March 25, 2020, and will be remembered as a respected leader a beloved friend, a husband, and a father of four.

Source: Detroit Free Press

  Source:  The Inquirer

Dena Louise Connelly, age 64, was stubborn, yet nurturing. To Ms. Connelly’s family, she was an honest woman with great integrity, a person who would tell it like it is and remain unafraid of hurting someone’s feelings. Ms. Connelly cared about the things you cared about but didn’t care what you thought about her. Most of all, Ms. Connelly was “a tough little lady.” Ms. Connelly died on April 30, 2020.

Source: LA Times

Michael Conners, age 58, was a Newark, New Jersey, police officer who worked for the department since December 1993. Mr. Conners is survived by two daughters, two sons, and six grandchildren.

Source: ABC News

Thomas H. Cooke Jr., age 90, didn’t shy away from a challenge to tackle slumlords as a two-term mayor of East Orange, New Jersey. Mr. Cooke, a tough-talking politician, was also a sentimental man who doted on his immediate and extended family. Mr. Cooke passed away on May 18, 2020.

Source: Afro Newspaper

Raymond Copeland, age 46,  drove a sanitation truck and collected waste in a two-person crew for New York City’s Strongest, the Department of Sanitation, working out of District 12, which covers a large swath of southeastern Queens, For Mr. Copeland, who raised three girls as a single father after their mother died, the job offered economic security. Mr. Copeland died on April 5, 2020.

Source: New York Times

Ruth Mazyck Corbett, age 76, was the person you went to when you were hurting. That is how her two daughters described her, not just in their own lives but in the life of Emmanuel Baptist Church, in the Clinton Hill section of Brooklyn, where Ms. Corbett had worshiped for 40 years. Ms. Corbett passed away on April 7, 2020.

Source: New York Times

Thomas “Reem” Cotton, age 54, was a brilliant legal scholar who would give you the shirt off his back if you asked and would never reduce a person to label, much less the worst mistakes of their lives. Mr. Cotton was incarcerated for 28 years and lived the latter half of his adult life showing there was so much more to him. Mr. Cotton passed away on April 29, 2020, just over a year after his release from prison.

Source: WHYY

Annie Phyllis Craft-Green, age 82, of Detriot in Michigan died due to complication from Covid-19 on April 22, 2020. Source: Detroit Free Press

William “Bo” Crain, age 81, was an excellent basketball player and dedicated community member. Mr. Crain died on May 7, 2020.

Source: IndyStar

Annis Creese, age 72, was a Spanish teacher at Northwestern High in Hyattsville, Maryland. Described as a warm, caring and passionate teacher who some students called, "Mom," Ms. Creese taught hundreds of children over the course of her 25-year career at the school. A mother of two adult children, she inspired them with her emphasis on education. Ms. Creese died on April 5, 2020.

Source: Washington Post

Howard Croft, age 78, was a dedicated activist and a longtime Anacostia resident whose civic accomplishments are plentiful. Mr. Croft was a 1960s voting rights activist in the turbulent South,  a crusader for social and racial justice, an urban studies professor at the University of the District of Columbia (UDC), a pioneer of the Lorton Project to educate prisoners, an advocate for prison reforms, and a labor union organizer. Above all, Mr. Croft was a devoted father and proud grandfather. Mr. Croft passed away on June 20, 2020.

Source: Washington Informer

Cedrick Crumpton, 42, had no underlying health conditions when he was diagnosed with the coronavirus. A beloved husband, father, and friend, Mr. Crupton died on July 17.

Willis Joseph Curley Sr., age 76, owned W.J.C.S General Contractors of the South, LLC. Mr. Curley was a dedicated Deacon at Gethsemane Church of God in Christ and a volunteer at the Food Net.

Source: The Drum

Yves Dandin, age 67, was an accountant when he lived in Haiti, his home country. A pet lover, Mr. Dandin he had rabbits, pigeons, and other types of birds. Mr. Dandin moved to New York City in 1981 and was self-employed as a Medallion Driver. Mr. Dandin was a brilliant checkers player; he won an award in an international tournament in New York. Mr. Dandin died on April 6, 2020.

Source: Haitian Times

Joseph Molaire Daniel, age 74, was a cab driver and proud Haitian. 

Source: Haitian Times

Perry Daniels, age 71, was involved with the sport of bowling for more than 40 years and held leadership roles with The National Bowling Association and United States Bowling Congress. Mr. Daniels died on March 31, 2020.

Source: News Break

Jasper Daniels Jr., age 76, was the best kind of father. He spent quality time with his four children, singing and talking, watching sports, and getting along. “People said he was quiet, but he was so friendly,” his daughter said. “He would give you his last dollar.” Mr. Daniels passed away on May 8, 2020.

Source: Philadelphia Inquirer

Jacalvis Darden, age 33, was a founder of the Liberation Outreach and Minister of Music at various churches in Detriot Michigan. Jacalvis was well known in the church community and hosted many events such as the Empowerment Summit, Ministry Lauch, and Freedom Friday, where church members could fellowship and hear the word of God. He also was very giving and did many fundraisers like storm relief fundraiser, where he worked with his community to donate water, canned goods, and money to aid people around his community. He passed away on March 29, 2020. Source: FHW Solutions

Albert “Sonie” Dargan, age 70, was a U.S. Marine, a retired New York City Transit Authority worker, and the father of seven daughters. Known for his gentleness, Mr. Dargan was a hands-on father who not only raised his own children but also raised some of his grandchildren. He died on March 30, 2020, in a New York City hospital.

Source: Birmingham Real-Time News

Bishop Bruce Davis, age 57, worked in healthcare support, feeding, bathing and caring for patients at Central State Hospital, a maximum-security psychiatric facility in Milledgeville, Georgia where he worked for 27 years. He was also a minister at his Pentecostal church and hosted youth parades and gave away computers, bicycles and groceries. Mr. Davis died on  April 11,  2020.

Source: The Guardian

Christopher Davis, age 44, was a family man who loved fishing and dancing and had a “contagious smile and beautiful eyes,” said his wife. At Grady Memorial hospital, Mr. Davis assisted doctors with placing catheters into blood vessels in the heart. Mr. Davis died on April 7, 2020.

Source: The Guardian 

Curtis “Jerome” Davis, age 64, was known by friends and family to look and act much younger than his 64 years. Mr. Davis worked for Fiat Chrysler Automobiles in Indiana. Mr. Davis passed away on September 13, 2020. 

Source: Kokomo Perspective

Dorothy “Pearl” Davis, age 60, was a passionate woman who cooked a mean dish of ribs with a side of greens. Ms. Davis was a nursing assistant in San Antonio Texas, and family descries her as Funny, outspoken and “the life of the party."  Ms. Davis died on May 10, 2020. 

Source: The Guardian

Source:  Penn-Orr Funeral Home  

Briana “Nana” Davis, age 19, was an up-and-coming college freshman, inspiring entrepreneur, and Jackson Community College attendee in Detriot. Briana was a vibrant young lady who loved to smile, take selfies, style hair and put on makeup. She also loved to listen to music, hang with friends, shop, Facetime people, cook, eat ice, and play on her phone. Briana also came from a big family and was the second oldest of nine siblings, known for her positive attitude, huge heart and caring soul. She accepted Christ at an early age and attended Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of the Rev. Ollie Lee Chambers, who was also her grandfather. She passed away May 7, 2020. Source: Detroit Free Pass

Lutricia “Pat” Davis, age 64, was a beloved singer in the church community in Detriot, MI. Throughout her life, Mrs. Davis performed annually in concerts at Leland Missionary Baptist Church and Historic St. James Baptist Church where she lifted the spirits of the congregation. She was known as having a sweet, humbler spirit and beautiful smile by those apart of her church family. She passed away on April 5, 2020. Source: PENN-ORR Funeral Home

Harold Davis Jr., age 63, was a radio host and youth advocate in Chicago. Mr. Davis attempted to solve problems in a variety of ways: daily for two hours of conversation at WGBX-1570 AM as host of a passionate and provocative radio show, “The Butt Naked Truth” which began airing in 2010; as head of an organization that was in the business of supplying food to Chicago public schools and, most deeply, working with at-risk youth to repair school auditoriums and in the process mend their own lives. Mr. Davis died on April 12, 2020.

Source: Chicago Tribune

Janice Dawkins, age 53, was a Special Educational Aid for Mossy Creek Elementary School in North Augusta, North Carolina for 15 years. Ms. Dawkins cared deeply about her student’s success and took it upon herself to tutor the children after school and hold meetings over the phone with their parents to ensure their success. Her colleagues even describe her as an amazing teacher and friend. Outside of school, she is remembered for the funny stories about her life and her kindness by her friends and family. She passed away on February 15, 2021. Source:  CBS17

Fred Dean, age 68, was a fearsome pass rusher who was a key part of the launch of the San Francisco 49ers’ dynasty. Mr. Dean was an undersized pass rusher who began his career as a second-round pick with the San Diego Chargers in 1975 and ended it in the Hall of Fame after being named an All-Pro twice and making four Pro Bowls. After being traded to San Francisco during the 1981 season, Mr. Dean won a super bowl in 1984 and was later inducted into the Hall of Fame's 2008 class. Mr. Dean died in October 2020.

Source: WTOP News

Wogene Debele, age 43, leaves behind her husband who remembers her as a woman with a pure heart. “She loved people and she always put the needs of others before hers," he said in a statement. "She dedicated her life to helping those around her and hoped to be a mother figure for those around.” Ms. Debele in April 2020, a few weeks after giving birth to her fourth child -- a healthy baby boy she never got to meet.

Source: ABC News

Phillip DeBerry, was a beloved member of a tight-knit team of Greyhound bus driving instructors. Mr. DeBerry’s job was his life: he worked had worked at Greyhound for 45 years. Mr. DeBerry passed away in the spring of 2020.

Source: 6 News Richmond

Kettely Desire, age 64, had an enduring love for music from her native Haiti and devotion to her church. She passed away on April 11, 2020. 

Source: The Guardian 

Called a true child of Brooklyn, Andre Devore, age 55, was a staff person in mailrooms around New York City. He died on April 16, 2020.

Source: Spectrum News

   Rose Marie Dickens Swanson, age 83, was an exemplary educator and a nationally admired community leader who served Detroit students with unwavering compassion while raising her own three children and serving as a role model to countless others. Ms. Swanson’s career as an educator spanned more than 30 years. As an administrator, Ms. Swanson led initiatives that provided academic support to students and professional development to teachers. After retiring from Detroit Public Schools in 1989, Ms. Swanson taught at her beloved alma mater, Wayne State University. “Her compassion for people was limitless,” said her daughter. Ms. Swanson died on December 15, 2020. Source: Detroit Free Press

Lillie Ann Dillahunt, age 79, passed away on September 4, 2020. Ms. Dillahunt's devotion to God, family, friends, and church provided her peace.

Source: Legacy.com

Ke’Lin Dillard, age 29, followed in her mother's footsteps. After she receiving her certificate as a medical assistant, Ms. Dillard began working as a caregiver with ResCare, a private provider of home care for disabled people. Ms. Dillard found joy cooking at home and spending time with her older daughter. Due to give birth to her daughter Morgan in August, Ms. Dillard held a socially distant drive-by baby shower for friends and family. Ms. Dillard passed away on August 17, 2020, less than a month after she gave birth to Morgan.

Source: NY Times

Detective Cedric Dixon had served in the police department for 23 years, working primarily in the Bronx. Promoted to detective just a year ago, he was assigned to the 32nd Precinct, covering Harlem. Mr. Dixon died on March 28 while wearing the badge of a detective with the New York City Police Department. He was 48.

Jazmond Dixon, age 31, was known for her huge smile. Ms. Dixon worked at the American Red Cross in St. Louis, had just completed her master's degree in business administration, and dreamed of owning her own baking business. Ms. Dixon passed away from the coronavirus on March 22, 2020.

Source: CBS News

Dobby Dobson, age 78, was a significant figure in the evolution of Jamaican music. Best known for his hit “I’m a Loving Pauper,” Mr. Dobson died on July 21, 2020.

Source: New York Times

James Doby, age 17, was a 2020 Duluth High School graduate who played both offensive and defensive line during his high school football career. Mr. Doby was studying to be a mechanic in Nashville, Tennessee. Friends and teachers say that his personality was even bigger than his size. Mr. Doby passed away months after his high school graduation. He passed away on July 21, 2020.

Source: Gwinnett Daily Post 

Deloris Dockery, age 60, of Union, New Jersey, was a leader at the Hyacinth AIDS Foundation, where she worked for 15 years. Ms. Docker was also the first woman to chair the Global Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS. New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy remembers Ms. Dockery as "champion and role model for countless women living with HIV." Ms. Dockery passed away in thhe spring of 2020.

Source: ABC News

Source:  Greensboro News & Record  

Maurice Dotson, age 51, was a hard-working nursing assistant who worked at the West Oaks Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Austin, Texas caring for patients for 25 years. Florence Dodson, his 71-year-old mother, said her son would work long hours even when he knew it was risky. He would throw birthday parties for his residents and celebrate holidays. "He loved his patients,'' said Dodson. "It was all about them." Mr. Dotson passed away on April 17, 2020.

Source: Buzzfeed

Martin Douglas, age 71, was a leader in Brooklyn’s steel band scene, playing his music everywhere, mentoring generations of young players, and keeping steel-pan music a vibrant part of New York’s cultural life for over two decades. Among other jobs, Mr. Douglas worked as a subway car inspector for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority. Mr. Douglas died on March 31, 2020.

Source: New York Times

Barry Downes, age 49, was a customer service representative for American Airlines for 22 years after immigrating to the United States from the Barbados. His father described him as “the kind of person who always looked out for others.” He was a recipient of the St Peter: We Gatherin’ 2020 Pride of Barbados Award and received the honor from Prime Minister Mia Mottley for service to his community in February. Mr. Downes died in Memorial Hospital in Pembrooke Pines Florida on  April 5, 2020.

Source: Sun Sentinel

Coretta Downing, age 51, was a detention officer in Charlotte, NC. Ms. Downing was a sweet, kind-hearted woman who loved to help people. Ms. Downing passed away on August 12, 2020.

Source:  Facebook

David C. Driskell, age 88, was an artist, art historian, art collector, art teacher, author, and curator who became a primary sponsor and advocate for the role of African American art in the national culture. As an artist, Mr. Driskell was best known for a 1956 painting, “Behold Thy Son." Mr. Driskell served on the art faculties of several historically black colleges. The University of Maryland's Center for the Study of the Visual Arts and Culture of African Americans and the African Diaspora, founded in 2001, was named in his honor. In addition, Mr. Driskell wrote several books on African American art. Mr. Driskell died on April 1, 2020. 

Source: Washington Post

   Tagan Ja’Nae Marie Drone, age 5, was a kindergarten student in Amarillo, Texas. Ms. Drone had the brightest smile and the charisma to match her beautiful personality. Ms. Drone died on October 30, 2020. Source: People

Bernie Dukes, age 73, was the president of the Miami Tri-County Senate, a group of about 400 bowlers who are part of the amateur league of the National Bowling Association. A past president of the group remembers Dukes as “the nicest human being” who always has a smile on his face. Mr. Dukes died on March 31, 2020.

Source: Sun Sentinel

April Dunn, age 33, was an advocate for people with disabilities who worked for the Governor of Louisiana. She also served as the chair of the Louisiana Developmental Disabilities Council, giving testimony to push lawmakers to pass legislation that would improve the lives of people with disabilities. Described as "determinedly considerate," Ms. Dunn touched the lives of many and influenced the people around her to help people are marginalized because of their disabilities. She was honored in June 2020 by the State of Louisiana who renamed Act 833, which establishes alternative pathways to grade promotion and graduation for students with disabilities who have difficulty passing conventional standardized tests, to the April Dunn Act. Ms. Dunn died on March 28, 2020.

Source: New York Times

   Michael Duren, age 43, was a pastor in Detroit, Michigan. Mr. Duren passed away on March 28, 2020. Source: Detroit Free Press

   Robert Eades, age 63, was a lifelong Annapolis resident known as a fierce advocate for the city’s Black community. A taxi driver by trade, Mr. Eades owned Neet-N-Klean Cab Co. Mr. Eades was a stout activist for his city's public housing communities for three decades. City officials credit Mr. Eades for successful city-wide programs, driven by his deep knowledge and trust within the community. A beloved father and grandfather, Mr. Eades passed away on August 3, 2020. Source: Capital Gazette

   Tanesha Easter, age 47, enjoyed attending concerts, making cheesecakes, and preparing her specialty rum cake during the holidays. Ms. Easter of Detroit, Michigan, died on March 27, 2020. Source: Detroit Free Press

Dave Edwards, age 48, was a star college basketball player. Mr. Edwards grew up in New York City public housing and broke records as a point guard for Georgetown and Texas A&M. Mr. Edwards' school career record of 602 assists and 228 steals stood until 2016. Mr. Edwards passed away in the spring of 2020.

Source: New York Times

Deidre Edwards was a custodian for the NYPD’s Facility Maintenance Section. Ms. Edwards had worked for the department since August 2005. Ms. Edwards died in April 2020.

Source: NY Daily News

Patricia Edwards, age 62, was a nurse for decades at an intensive care unit in South Carolina. Her family describes her as an advocate for patients, and a protectorate who cared for everyone, family and strangers alike. Ms. Edwards passed away on August 19, 2020.

Source: Fox Carolina 

Nick Sherman Edwards Jr., age 59, wore many hats: pastor, principal, administrator, and mentor. Mr. Edwards was called to the ministry at age 15, and was ultimately ordained an Elder in the Church of God in Christ. Mr. Edwards died on May 6, 2020.

Source: Detroit Free Press

Obinna Eke, age 42, moved to the United States from Nigeria when he was 22 years old. Mr. Eke was a patient care technician at a New Jersey hospital and worked full-time while going to school. Mr. Eke was pursuing a degree in pre-nursing and sociology. Mr. Eke died on April 5, 2020. 

Source: ABC News

Camille “Sasha” Ellington, age 66, was a retired entrepreneur who helped people start their own businesses. She was a Patriots fan and an excellent cook, and she had a knack for interior design. She was a devoted Christian. Ms. Ellington passed away on March 31, 2020. 

Source: LA Times

John Elliott, age 88, was a teacher and union leader. Mr. Elliot, longtime Detroit Federation of Teachers president emeritus, was motivated by one thing: providing the best education possible for Detroit students. Mr. Elliott served as president of the union from 1981 until 2001, following many years as a teacher in the Detroit school district. Mr. Elliott passed away on April 8, 2020.

Source: Detroit Free Press

Patrick Ellis, age 77, led a personal communion over 96.3 WHUR-FM airwaves for five hours each Sunday morning, playing a mix of classic and contemporary gospel music while helping his listeners get ready for church and prepare for the coming week. Mr. Ellis died on July 16, 2020.

Source: Washington Post

Helen Etuk, age 20, was a senior in college at the University of North Texas. She dreamed of becoming a pediatrician since she loved children and planned to dedicate herself to giving them healthy lives. Outside of her studies, Helen sang in the church choir, was part of the color guard at Lake Ridge High School in Texas, watched the History and Discovery channels, and indulged in novels with her childhood favorites being both the Harry Potter and Twilight series. After battling for almost three months she passed away on February 10, 2021. Source: New York Times

Joe Evett, age 68, was a bus driver for Lexington-Richland School District 5.  His family said that to know Joe Evett was to love him and that his last months were filled doing the things that made him happiest. Mr. Evett passed away on October 16, 2020.

Source: WIS News 10

Dr. Maima Darbah Fahnbulleh, age 73, had a public service career that spanned five decades and took her to various countries, including Liberia, Grenada, and the United States. A tireless advocate for people with disabilities, Dr. Fahnbulleh changed countless lives and made a difference everywhere she went. Dr. Fahnbulleh died in May 2020. 

Source: Daily Observer

Ronda Felder, age 60, died August 3, 2020, ending a life dedicated to family and people in need. A social worker for the County of San Diego, Ms. Felder always did whatever it took to make room in her home, her heart and her family for anyone who was hurting, lost or abandoned, her daughter said.

Source: The San Digeo Union Tribune

Andre Ferguson, age 49, was the executive chef at the Courtyard by Marriott in Waterbury, Connecticut. Known as being "good on his toes," Mr. Ferguson was a superb chef who transformed food and drink into tremendous meals. He died on April 3, 2020.

Source: Republican-American

Thomas Fields, Jr., 32, worked at Paul Robeson Malcolm X Academy, a Detroit public school focused on African-centered education, by helping students who had discipline problems. Mr. Feilds was especially devoted to serving the community that raised him. Mr. Fields passed away in March 2020.

Source: Detroit Chalkbeat

Rosa Lee Finch Hellams, age 96, was sprightly and sharp, lived with her family, and greeted everyone who came in the door from her favorite seat in the living room. Ms. Hellams died on August 26, 2020 days after her daughter, a nurse, passed away. 

Source: NBC News

Rev. Beverly Finley-Gardner was pastor of spiritual growth and development at Original Providence Baptist Church in Broadview, Illinois and school nurse at Rogers Elementary School. Rev. Finley-Gardner died on March 29, 2021. Source: WGN-TV

Lula Fitzpatrick, age 85, was feisty and talkative, even at her old age. “You never had to wonder how she felt about something because she always spoke her mind,” said her daughter. Ms. Fitzpatrick was the matriarch of a tight-knit family, with four daughters, six grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren. Ms. Fitzpatrick died on April 3, 2020.

Source: Chicago Tribune

Beryl May Fletcher, age 99, was a mother, grandmother, aunt, beloved friend and community member. She also was a devoted church member and active in the PTA and in her neighborhood civic groups. During her long life, Ms. Fletcher did a variety of jobs. She worked as a seamstress in the garment district, as a keypunch operator and as a teacher’s aide before landing the job she eventually retired from: an intake worker with New York City’s social services department. She also found time and energy to get her high school equivalency diploma at the age of 53. For many years, she would work at the election polls. Mrs. Fletcher passed on September 20, 2020.

Source: The Undefeated

Bishop James M. Flowers, Jr age 84, was a nightclub singer in his youth but quit the clubs for a quiet life. He worked at a jewelry store fixing watches for many years and served as the minister of the  Shining Star Freewill Baptist Church, which he co-founded in 1982. Bishop Flowers, Jr. preached his final sermon weeks there before he died on April 6, 2020

Source: Washington Post

Nina Ann Forbes, age 56, was a nurse who worked at a care facility in Virginia. Ms. Forbes wanted to be a nurse from the time she was a little girl. At age 50, after years as a nursing assistant, she went back to school for her degree.c"She really loved her job. She loved her residents. She loved her patients," said her daughter. Ms. Forbes passed away on April 25, 2020.

Source: NBC News

Yvette Forrest, age 50, was the manager of Human Resources Administration at West Tennessee Healthcare where she had worked since 1999. Ms. Forrest passed away on September 9, 2020. Source: WBBJ 7  

Dan Foster, age 61, had a big voice, a love of giving away gifts, and a light touch with a story. When Mr. Foster arrived in Nigeria to work in radio in 2000, he found a public that was ready for him. Known as the “Big Dawg” on Nigerian airwaves, Mr. Foster began a new life in Nigeria after living, growing up, and serving in the United States as a Marine. Mr. Foster died on June 17, 2020. He was 61.

Source: New York Times

Gary Fowler, age 56, was a beloved father and friend. Mr. Fowler passed away on April 7, 2020, after repeatedly being denied care from local hospitals. 

Source: Detroit Free Press

Byron Francis, age  20, was the “‘Big Teddy Bear,' of his family, according to his mother. She noted that his smile could light up a room. Mr. Francis passed away on June 27, 2020.

Source: Local 10 News

Devin Dale Francis, age 44, was a front-line worker twice over. Mr. Francis was a hospital radiology technician and also had a job with an airline. Mr. Francis was known as "Gummy Bear" to his friends when he was younger, loved to cook and crack jokes, and was a great father. Mr. Francis was months away from getting married when he died on April 8, 2020.

Source: Tulsa Public Radio

Gwendolyn Francis, age 74,  and her husband Robert were married for more than 50 years. Ms. Francis loved to cook and garden and, along with her husband, was a deacon in her church. Ms. Francis died in the spring of 2020, the same week that her husband also succumbed to the virus.

Source: WDSU

Mychaela Francis, age 22, “was a loving and devoted sister, auntie, and friend who was always willing to listen and give advice,” said her mother. Relatives described Ms. Francis as a warm, ambitious woman who was working at Little Caesars and was babysitting as she worked to open a clothing and eyelash business. Ms. Francis passed away on July 8, 2020, 11 days after her younger brother succumbed to COVID-19.

Source: New York Times

Robert Francis, age 76, and his wife Gwendolyn were deacons at their church. Mr. Francis loved to ride his bike, fish, and hunt. Mr. Francis passed away in the spring of 2020, the same week as his wife.

Source: WDSU

Alicia Ann "Smiley" Francis, age 43, was a licensed clinical social worker in New Orleans, Louisiana. Ms. Francis was a member of Franklin Avenue Baptist Church and was employed at Future Winners LLC and The Guidance Center Inc. Ms. Francis died March 15, 2021. Source: Legacy.com  

Troy Franklin, age 51, was a natural athlete and played multiple sports as a child growing up in Detroit, Michigan. Mr. Franklin loved music, fishing, camping, BMX racing and shooting firearms, which he spent a lot of time doing with his father as a young man. A double amputee, Mr. Franklin inspired other amputees and was often asked to mentor new amputees. Mr. Franklin passed away on January 20, 2021, eight days before his mother Marian also succumbed to the virus. Source: Detroit Free Press

Winifred Fredericks, age 92, has a life story that is about love and courage. Ms. Fredericks and her husband of 62 years participated in the March on Washington and the Freedom Rides. “My mother was loved by all those she encountered,” said Ms. Fredericks’ daughter. She passed away on April 8, 2020. 

Source: Spectrum News

Patricia Frieson, age 61, was one of nine siblings. Ms. Frieson didn’t have children, but often cared for her nieces and nephews. A retired nurse and family woman through and through, Ms. Frieson passed away on March 16, 2020.

Source: Washington Post

Valrie Fulton, age 54, was a 25-year veteran patient transport worker at New York-Presbyterian. Ms. Fulton grew up in the Bronx, one of 15 siblings, and is remembered as loving, giving, and soft-spoken. Ms. Fulton passed away on April 3, 2020. 

Source: The Guardian

Theodore Gaffney, age 92, risked his life in the spring of 1961, traveling with and photographing the Freedom Riders who attempted to challenge segregation in the South by riding Greyhound and Trailways buses. An Army veteran and descendant of enslaved people in South Carolina, Mr. Gaffney passed away on April 12, 2020.

Source: Washington Post

Sandra Gaines, age 75, was an Unflagging Banquet server and a valued colleague. For many years Ms. Gaines held two jobs, and she sometimes worked up to 60 hours a week. Ms. Gaines was also known for the lush garden she cultivated in her rare free time. Ms. Gaines passed away on March 31, 2020. 

Source: New York Times

Juan “Jauncito” Garcia, age 21, was a student at Penn State University. “Juancito was always full of love, compassion, and a deep sense of loyalty to those he called family and friends,” said his former principal. Mr. Garcia passed away in the summer of 2020.

Source: The Morning Call

Johnny Gardner, age 46, was a Radiology Tech at HonorHealth in Phoenix, AZ. Mr. Gardner was a loving son, supportive sibling, doting husband, and proud father. Remembered as a vibrant free spirit and adventurous soul, Mr. Gardner passed away in January 2021. Source: Twitter  

Deborah Gatewood, age 63, was a phlebotomist for three decades at a Detroit hospital and was planning on retiring in two years. Ms. Gatewood died on April 17, 2020. Ms. Gatewood's daughter said that prior to her mother's death, she was denied a coronavirus test four times by her employer, Beaumont Hospital, Farmington Hills.

Source: NBC News

Julena Gay, age 63, was the sister of state Rep. Sherry Gay Dagnogo. Ms. Gay lived in Detroit and worked at Chrysler. "Ms. Gay was a devoted activist...who showed a deep love for the community," said another state representative. Ms. Gay passed away in April 2020.

Source: Detroit Free Press

Hellen Gdobi, age 54, was a nurse in Washington, DC, a mother of three and grandmother of two. Ms. Gdobi completed a Family Computer Literacy Program while working full-time and was so proud of her achievement. Ms. Gbodi passed away on April 19, 2020. 

Source: The Guardian

Grover Gene Casey, age 48, worked for the Little Rock School District for over 20 years, most recently as the head custodian at Henderson Middle School.“Grover was one of them guys that you knew when he came around you were going to laugh," said his brother. Mr. Casey passed away on December 15, 2020. Source: ABC 7  

Eddy Germain, age 67, served New Jersey for more than 30 years as an employee of the state's Department of Transportation. Mr. Germain's last assignment was on structural analysis for the federal waiver on highway weight limits for truckers carrying COVID-19 relief supplies. Mr. Germain passed away in the spring of 2020.

Source: ABC News

James Gettings, age 94, was one of many African Americans to leave the South during the years of the Great Migration. Mr. Gettings first arrived in Pennsylvania and worked in a shipyard, learning to weld. Two years later, he moved to Chicago, where he worked as a journeyman until the day he retired. A true patriarch, Mr. Gettings’ family said they will remember him as someone who always reached back for others. Mr. Gettings passed away on March 29, 2020. 

Source: Chicago Tribune

Reverend Vickey Gibbs, age 57, used her pulpit at her church in Houston to treat broken parishioners in a broken social world. An activist living with lupus, Rev. Gibbs died of the coronavirus on July 10, 2020.

Source: New York Times

Mack Giles Sr., age 76, was a loving father and grandfather. Mr. Giles, of Alexander, AR, passed on July 6, 2020. Source: Tribute Archive  

Jerry Givens, age 67, led the second-busiest prison execution team in the country for 17 years. Mr. Givens ultimately turned against capital punishment, emerging as one of the country’s most prominent opponents of the death penalty. Using his experience as a Virginia executioner as a warning, Mr. Givens explained to audiences why the death penalty should end. Mr. Givens passed away on April 13, 2020. 

Source: Associated Press

   Steed Glaudin, age 48, was a longtime employee at Whole Foods in Bethesda, Maryland. Mr. Glausin worked for Whole Foods for 28 years and considered the work of keeping the store open so people could buy food for their families to be essential and important. Mr. Glaudin’s friends and coworkers remember him as a “big brother,” “teddy bear” and “gentle giant.” Mr. Glaudin died on December 11, 2020. Source: NBC 4 Washington

Jimmy Glenn, age 89, was a man of many trades. A fighter, trainer, cutman, and manager, Mr. Glenn once owned both a bar and a gym. Remembered as a friendly man with a gentle voice, Mr. Glenn passed away on May 7, 2020. 

Source: New York Times

Gerald Glisson, age 46, was the principal of operations and athletic director at Eastside High School in Patterson, New Jersey. "Dr. Glisson was a dedicated and caring educator who touched the lives of so many people during his 20 years working in Paterson Public Schools," said the school superintendent. Dr. Glisson passed away in the spring of 2020.

Source: ABC News 

Fred the Godson, age 41, was a respected figure in New York hip-hop for more than a decade and an understated master of wordplay with a signature flow. Mr. Godson died in April 2020.

Source: New York Times

Bishop Elijah J. Good, age 86, was influential in his community as the lead pastor of The World’s Church of the Living God and a founding board member for the YMCA of Chilton County, West End Head Start, and the Chilton County Emergency Center. Bishop Good had also served in the U.S. Army as an Army Specialist for six years. Bishop Good passed away on September 13, 2020. 

Source: Clanton Advertiser

Larry­dean Goodridge, age 45, was a phlebotomist and a pastor. Ms. Goodridge immigrated to the United States in 2000 to flee Liberia’s Second Civil War. Ms. Goodridge eventually settled in Minnesota and became a specialist at drawing blood. “She worked basically almost full time at the hospital, night shift, which is hard to do. And in the morning she would go and pick up her grandchildren, after working all night long,” said a coworker. Ms. Goodridge passed away on June 1, 2020.

Source: Star Tribune

Emma Goolsby, age 56, was a psychiatric nurse at Bellevue Hospital and active NYSNA member for 17 years. Ms. Goolsby passed away on April 14, 2020.

Source: NYSNA

Philadelphia firefighter Eric Gore passed away in June 2020.

Source: ABC 6 Philly

Zebbie “Zeb” Goudelock, age 68, served on Newberry City Council for almost 30 years, beginning in October 1990. Mr. Goudelock was one of the first African Americans on the council and represented District Three. Mr. Goudelock’s favorite aspect of Newberry, he said, was living in a community with a “community first” atmosphere and friendly personalities. Mr. Goudelock was a member of Saint Matthew Baptist Church in Newberry where he served as Chairman of the Deacon Board, treasurer, and superintendent of Sunday School. Mayor Foster Senn described Mr. Goudelock as one of the finest, warm-hearted, and nicest people he has ever known. Mr. Goudelock died on September 3, 2020. Source: The Newberry Observer  

Leola Grady, age 59, was an honest, straightforward, and loving person. Ms. Grady enjoyed listening to the blues and at the nursing home where she worked, she was known to entertain residents with a calming presence. Ms. Grady passed away on April 10, 2020.

Source: The Guardian

Joseph Graham, age 67, went by the nickname “Joe Moe,” grew up in a rough South Side Chicago neighborhood and was a well-known figure on the streets before kicking a drug habit and becoming a source of strength for others traveling the same path. “If you met him, you would love him,” said a longtime friend. Mr. Graham, a school custodian, steppin’ aficionado, and symbol of hope, died on March 24, 2020.

Source: Chicago Tribune

Juanita Eason Graham, age 55, was a former preschool teacher. Though she had no kids of her own, her students were her life. “That was her calling, to be a teacher,” said her husband. Ms. Graham passed away in March 2020.

Source: St. Louis Dispatch

Gail Green-Gilliam, age 56, was an East Alabama assistant police chief. Ms. Green-Gilliam passed away in June 2020, and is remembered as a fantastic mother and grandmother. 

Source: WTVM

Hillary Gregg, age 73, was a line cook at top-shelf restaurants in Manhattan. The founder of Quilted Giraffe, a restaurant where Mr. Gregg worked, called him a “walking cookbook.” Mr. Gregg was known to be a calm presence in rough-and-tumble kitchens of high-end restaurants. Mr. Gregg passed away on May 3, 2020. 

Source: New York Times

Henry Grimes, age 84, was one of the most versatile and admired bass players in jazz in the 1950s. In the 1960s, Mr. Grimes simply dropped out of the jazz scene and was thought to be dead, but in 2002, a jazz-lover tracked him down in Los Angeles, where he worked as a janitor. Mr. Grimes hadn’t played a note of music in more than 30 years. After receiving a bass as a gift, Mr. Grimes returned to music, performing all over the world, making numerous recordings, and teaching at conservatories. Mr. Grimes died on April 15, 2020.

Source: Washington Post

  Source:  Twitter

Andre Guest, age 16, was described as an "easy going" teenager who attended Lawrence North High School in Indianapolis, Indiana. As an avid gamer, he also loved photography and excelled at basketball and bowling. Andre died on April 27, 2020.

Source: CNN

Rev. Dr. Maurice Guillaume, age 87, was born in Haiti. After his high school and college studies, Rev. Guillaume joined the Salvation Army where he became an officer and an ordained minister of the Christian faith and rose through the ranks. Rev. Guillaume opened his own church that he called “Armee du Christ.” Under his leadership, the ministry blossomed. Rev. Guillaume passed away in 2020.

Source: Haitian Times

Dr. Alyce Gullattee, age 91, was an associate professor of psychiatry at Howard University and director of Howard's Institute on Drug Abuse and Addiction. She served on White House committees on substance abuse for three presidents: Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford and Jimmy Carter. A determined and outspoken advocate, Dr. Gullattee spent a lifetime trying to break down racial barriers for the most vulnerable members of the African-American community. She died in Rockville, Maryland on April 30, 2020.

Source: New York Times

Leslie Hagan-Morgan, age 38, was a prominent community activist in South Los Angeles where he ran a non-profit youth organization, City of Youth. After 10 years of community development projects, youth programming, and community outreach, Mr. Hagan-Morgan took on another role in 2014 as the program coordinator for the Mayor’s Gang Reduction Youth Development Program (GRYD). This project helped transition former gang members into working, educated, and community serving inspirations within their respective neighborhoods. "He was so loving, he did not care about himself enough, he cared about everyone else, he took such good care of us," said Mr. Hagan-Morgan's wife. Loved by everyone who met him, Mr. Hagan-Morgan passed away on January 18, 2021.

Source:  ABC 7  

Archbishop Lucius Hall, age 87,  founder and pastor of First Church of Love and Faith and a leader in gospel circles, organized gospel music concerts for the likes of Mahalia Jackson, hosted radio and television broadcasts, and was courted by would-be mayors and governors. He sometimes acted as a master of ceremonies and did introductions at Chicago’s Gospel Music Festival alongside legends like Albertina Walker. And he was a vice president of the Broadcast Ministers Alliance television ministry, according to his biography. Mr. Hall passed away on April 2, 2020.

Source: Chicago Times

Willie Hall, age 69, had an infectious smile, a generous spirit and a gift for music that drew people to him. Friends and family called him “Doc" because he was so loving, explained his son. “The doctor of love and the doctor of music.” Mr. Hall passed away from COVID-19 on April 6, 2020.

Source: Chicago Tribune

Leroy Hammett, age 71, didn’t run an average barbershop. “It was the community's barbershop. My father did block parties. My father did free haircut days for seniors, free haircut days for kids,” said his son. After Mr. Hammett closed the barbershop ten years ago, he became a volunteer assistant basketball coach at Cecil College in Maryland and Penn State Wilkes-Barre. Mr. Hammett passed away on March 30, 2020.

Source: Gothamist

Reverend Ronnie Hampton, age 64, was pastor of New Vision Community Church in Shreveport. Rev. Hampton was known for his “Takin’ it to the Streets” ministry and its service to the inner-city neighborhoods. Rev. Hampton died on March 25, 2020.

Source: The Drum 

Joshua "Josh" Handley, Jr., age 41, of Pine Bluff, Arkansas passed away on July 27, 2020. Source: Henson-Holcomb Mortuary  

Michael Hardy worked as a road supervisor for JTA’s Connexion bus service in Jacksonville, Floria which transports the elderly and people with disabilities. “Mike was a, he was a solid guy. You know, you have some people that are frail and sickly. Mike was not that guy,” said his brother, James Hardy. “He was a laughable, lovable guy. When you thought about Mike your thoughts were always positive.” Mr. Hardy passed away on June 22, 2020.

Source: News4Jax

Samuel Hargress Jr., age 84. ran Paris Blues, a Harlem bar throwback to the 1960s that attracted locals and tourists alike and seemed to be an extension of himself. Mr. Hargress died on April 10, 2020.

Source: New York Times

Ms. Hargrove, age 59, was a benefits program specialist for 18 years with the Department of Social Services. A veteran social worker, Ms. Hargrove most recently worked on applications for Medicaid for people needing nursing home placement. Ms. Hargrove died on April 27, 2020.

Source: Richmond Free Press

Jason Hargrove, age 50, was a Detroit bus driver and he loved his job. Mr. Hargrove warned in a viral Facebook video post about the dangers of the coronavirus, hoping to keep not just himself, but his passengers safe. Remembered as a family man with a personality that could light up a room, Mr. Hargrove passed away on April 1, 2020. 

Source: Time Magazine

Chianti “Tiki” Jackson Harpool, age 51, worked as a social worker helping the homeless and drug-addicted, later becoming a political fundraiser. In 2015, Ms. Harpool left social work to attend a six-month culinary program and started a home-based chocolate-making business, Chianti’s Chocolates. Ms. Harpool died in April 2020.

Source: Washington Post

Anthony "Ant" Harrell, age 41, was a custodian at Crossroads Elementary school in Norfolk, Virginia. Mr. Harrell died on July 3, 2020.

Source: 10 On Your Side

As much as Carolyn Harris was a woman about her business, she also loved to have fun. Whenever Too Short’s song “Blow the Whistle,” her favorite tune, was played, Ms. Harris would normally dance. She passed away from COVID-19 on April 4 at the age of 70.

Jacqueline Harris, age 78, always wanted people to be kind and share. Ms. Harris was a proud Jamaican mother and lived on a corner in her Michigan town that had a bus stop. In the mornings and afternoons, Ms. Harris would feed students at the bus stop. "She didn't like to see anybody not have anything to eat," said a loved one. 

Source: CNN

James Harris, age 70, was a towering professional wrestler known as Kamala the “Ugandan Giant” in the ring. Mr. Harris' career started in 1978 and lasted more than two decades. Mr. Harris passed away on August 6, 2020. 

Source: New York Times

Larry Harris, age 62, was a free spirit who gave himself so many nicknames it was hard to keep up. Mr. Harris held many jobs: he was a retired police officer, security guard, restaurant manager, movie extra, warehouse worker, and bookstore clerk. Mr. Harris died on April 1, 2020.

Source: Chicago Tribune

Pamela Harris, age 60, was a school counselor at Fort Knox Middle High School. "Mrs. Harris dedicated many years to the Fort Knox Community in service as an Army veteran, teacher, and school counselor. She was also a beloved staff member who was known for lifting up others with her smile, encouraging words and jokes,” said the school’s principal. Ms. Harris died in September 2020.

Source: WDRB

Xavier Harris, age 4, lived in Utica, New York with his mom and two brothers. Affectionately known as “Xavy,” Xavier is remembered as “a little spitfire’' with a show-stopping smile. Xavier passed away on December 26, 2020. Source: Syracuse.com  

Gwynne Harris McCathorine, age 75, became the first Black female warden in the history of the Federal Prison Services in July 1981. One of Ms. McCathorine's many accomplishments includes establishing the first branch of the NAACP within a Federal female prison in 1982. A trailblazer, servant-leader, and sought-after national speaker at the height of her career, Ms. McCathorine belonged to a myriad of organizations such as the National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice, American Association of Corrections, NAACP, and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Ms. McCathorine passed away on June 20, 2020. 

Source: Owens Funeral Home

Alexander Harvey, 89, was known as “King,” and was the former owner of King Upholstery on Detroit’s east side where he worked for more than 30 years. He died at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit on April 7, 2020, less than a month before his 90th birthday.

Source: Detroit Free Press

Rhoda Hatch, age 73, was just 20 years old when she began raising her seven younger siblings after their mother’s death. Despite early struggles, Ms. Hatch was the first in the family to graduate college. Ms. Hatch became a teacher in Chicago’s public schools and later, an outspoken anti-war activist. Ms. Hatch died April 4, 2020. 

Source: Chicago Tribune

Kareem Hawthorne, age 45, was a great father and family man who worked at a good job, remembers his wife. A father of three, Mr. Hawthorne passed away on April 8, 2020.

Source: Denver 7

Pamela Evette Haynes, age 60, was a nurse, an usher, a choir member, the lynchpin of her family, and a generational mainstay in her Queens neighborhood. Ms. Haynes' family was one of the first to move into the Queens home where she lived for her entire life. Ms. Haynes showered her attention on her 14 nieces and nephews and her cats, Sierra, Frankie and Gigi. Ms. Haynes passed away on April 10, 2020.

Source: Spectrum News

Louvenia “Lou Lou” Henderson, age 44, was a beloved single mother of three, passed away on March 27, 2020. 

Source: Buffalo News 

Lieutenant Maybelle Hendricks, age 70, was the first female African American officer hired by Summerville Police in 1981. Lt. Hendricks served multiple communities in South Carolina during her career in law enforcement. Lt. Hendricks passed away on August 17, 2020. 

Source: ABC 4 News

Connie Sylene Hendrickson Thompson, age 58, was known simply as the “peach cobbler lady” to many around Indianapolis. Ms. Thompson sold her famous, homemade peach cobbler to businesses around the city. While her daughter loved that peach cobbler, she will remember her mother as the “sweetest, happiest, most selfless, outgoing, hard-working person I ever knew.…She’s the reason I graduated college.” Ms. Thompson died on April 21, 2020.

Source: IndyStar

Edison Hendrix Jr., age 33, knew how to make people laugh, even if that meant breaking into song and dance as if he were on stage with a Motown group. Family members described Mr. Hendrix, also known as “Tater,” as a big-hearted truck driver who earlier in life had encouraged friends to join the trucking industry in an effort to keep them off the street. Mr. Hendrix died on April 17, 2020. 

Source: Houston Chronicle 

Corliss Henry, age 95, was one of the few Black students at Hunter College High School in the 1940s, then an all-girls school on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. In 1957, Mrs. Henry became the first black nurse on staff at Muhlenberg Hospital in Plainfield, N.J., where her husband was the first Black person on the sales floor of any store downtown. Mrs. Henry died on April 14, 2020.

Source: New York Times

Tessie Henry, age 83, loved going to church, listening to the blues, and being with her family. After retiring from her job as a postal worker, Ms. Henry worked as a hostess at Cornerstone Missionary Baptist Church in San Francisco for over 20 years. Ms. Henry died on March 27, 2020.

Source: LA Times

Nelson Henry Jr., age 96, was a World War II veteran who was given a “blue discharge” in1945, along with thousands of other Black soldiers. Mr. Henry drove a taxi for many years, earned a bachelor’s degree at Temple University, and worked for the Pennsylvania state employment office. He was a member of Omega Psi Phi fraternity. In 2019, an Army review board found his discharge to be unjust and changed its status to honorable. Mr. Henry died on May 9, 2020. 

Source: Philadelphia Inquirer

Deborah Henson, age 56, is remembered as a church member with a generous spirit. At the Ocala, Florida Church that her husband pastored, Ms. Henson counseled couples, donated clothing and aided women who suffered from domestic violence. Ms. Henson passed away on July 11, 2020.

Source: New York Times

Skylar Herbert, age 5, was the daughter of Detroit first responders. Skyler’s mother says “she was the type of girl that would just run up to you and jump in your arms and hug you." Ms. Herbert passed away in the spring of 2020.

Source: The Detroit News

Francoise Hilaire, age 54, worked hard to provide opportunities for her children. Ms. Hilaire's oldest daughter said that she worked two jobs, on top of tending to her family. Ms. Hilaire enjoyed cooking and she often gave away meals to anyone who needed it, a spirit she carried into her work as a nursing assistant. Ms. Hilaire died on April 27, 2020.

Source: The Guardian

Charley Hill was a dedicated church trustee who “always had the key to the building, always checked in on things.” Mr. Hill was a retired Cook County sheriff’s police detective and negotiator, and a veteran of both the Army and Marine Corps. Mr. Hill died on March 25, 2020.

Source: Chicago Tribune

Davon “Vonnie” Hill, age 24, never met a stranger. "Vonnie has a sweet, pure, loving heart... Vonnie gets along with everybody," said his mother. Mr. Hill grew up in Pensacola where he graduated from Booker T. Washington High School, and later Pensacola State College. Mr. Hill died on July 2, 2020. 

Source: ABC 3 WEAR TV

Michael Hill, age 58, is remembered for having a big, joyful personality. Mr. Hill began working for SEPTA in 1989 as an assistant conductor. He was promoted to conductor in 1991 and held the position ever since. Mr. Hill died on April 14, 2020.

Source: WHYY

Mildred Hill, age 75, was loved dearly by her children. Ms. Hill passed away on April 7, 2020. 

Source: Detroit Free Press

Lewis “Lew” Daniel Hill, age 55, was the head coach for the Texas–Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros men's basketball team in Edinburg, Texas. Though a native of Mount Vernon, N.Y., Hill was best known and beloved in the southern Great Plains, having starred at Wichita State in the late 1980s and later serving as an assistant under Lon Kruger at UNLV and Oklahoma. Basketball was his life. Outside of his career, he was a father and married to Renee Hill. To Renee, he was everything. He passed away suddenly on January 17, 2021.  Source: Washington Post

Theodis “Theo” Hill, III, age 29, was a supportive football and lacrosse coach with a big family. Mr. Hill always brightened the lives of others and was always looking to do more for those around him, especially his stepmother, siblings, cousins, and friends. Mr. Hill passed away on December 12, 2020. Source: GoFundMe  

Gregory Hodge, age 59, was a New York City EMT. Mr. Hodge was a 24-year veteran of the FDNY and was a responder to the September 11 World Trade Center rescue and recovery efforts.

Source: ABC News

Antoine Hodge, age 38, was an opera singer at New York’s Met Opera. Mr. Hodge lent his bass-baritone to the beloved Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church in New York City as well as The Metropolitan Opera in a production of “Porgy and Bess” during the 2019-2020 season. Prior to making his mark on New York’s opera scene, Mr. Hodge, a south Georgia native, studied voice performance at Georgia State University and sang at the Atlanta Opera. Mr. Hodge passed away in early 2021.

Source:  Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Christopher Hollins, age 58, rarely missed a shift at the Georgia-Pacific paper mill in Zachary, Louisiana, where he worked for more than 30 years. “He had a beautiful smile. He was always looking out for others and took pride in everything he did," said his wife. Mr. Hollins passed away in March 2020. 

Source: The Advocate

Margaret Holloway, age 68, was an unhoused street performer in New Haven, CT. Ms. Holloway had a repertoire that included “The Tempest,” “Macbeth” and the Greek alphabet, which she acted out letter by letter. Ms. Holloway was a 1980 graduate of the Yale School of Drama. “She loved people — she had relationships with everyone all over New Haven,” said a longtime friend. Ms. Holloway passed away on May 30, 2020. 

Source: New York Times

James “Coach” Holmes, age 82, had served as the District 2 Chatham County Commissioner since January 2005. Mr. Holmes was planning to end his tenure on the commission this year. Before retiring, Mr. Holmes worked as the physical director and program director for the Frank Callen Boys and Girls Club, in addition to working as a head basketball coach of St. Pius V High School and assistant basketball coach at Savannah State College. Mr. Holmes died in August 2020.

Source: Savanna Now

Morris Hood III, age 54, was a former member of the Michigan House and Senate, Mr. Hood represented Michigan’s 3rd district of Dearborn, Melvindale, and northwest Detroit from 2010-2018. Mr. Hood, affectionately known as Mo, “was a loyal friend,” according to Michigan’s Governor. Mr. Hood passed on May 11, 2020.

Source: Michigan Chronicle

Anthony Marcellus Hopkins, age 70, was a tank commander in the Army who earned a Purple Heart when he was badly wounded by shrapnel in an ambush in South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. He served his country for 24 years and was honorably discharged in 1994. Mr. Hopkins went on to be a Postal Service mail hander for 18 years in Kentucky. He was a husband, father to a daughter and four sons, grandfather to 16 grandchildren and great grandfather to four grandchildren. Mr. Hopkins died on August 23, 2020.

Source: New York Times

Barbara Johnson Hopper, age 81, was a real estate agent and was known for giving friends and family plum jam made with fruit picked from her yard. “She’s the one that brought people together and knew how to inspire people toward a purpose,” her daughter said. Her husband, Dr. Cornelius Hopper stated she was, "“An incredibly, beautiful, vibrant achieving person that I was just absolutely grateful to have shared 55 years with.” Mrs. Hopper died on March 26, 2020.

Source: KTVU

James House, age 40, was an eager student, registered nurse, and aspiring physician assistant. He adored his five children and had a lifelong fascination and passion for learning about the human body. Mr. House died in March 2020.

Source: The Guardian 

Cora Jean Howard, age 77, stood 4-foot-11 and embodied selflessness and demanded excellence from everyone — even complete strangers. Mrs. Howard, a devout Christian who regularly sat in the pews for early Sunday service at First African Methodist Episcopal Church in Capitol Hill, poured her heart into teaching kids, a job she did for 23 years before her retirement in 2009. Mrs. Howard died on April 3, 2020.

Source: Seattle Times

Marylin Howard, age 53, loved being a public school nurse in Brooklyn. “She got to help kids day in and day out, and she was good at it,” said her brother. Ms. Howard passed away from the virus on April 4, 2020.

Source: New York Post

Torrin Howard, age 26, was a musician in gospel bands, playing the bass, keyboard, drums, and guitar. Mr. Howard was a standout football player at Wilby High School, where he played nose tackle. After high school, Mr. Howard studied social work at Southern Connecticut State University and was working as a mental health counselor. Mr. Howard’s father described his son as “the nicest person you would ever want to meet” and down to earth. Mr. Howard died on April 7, 2020.

Source: Hartford Courant

Keith Howard, age 52, was an engineer and father. Mr. Howard passed away on March 18, 2020. Source: Detroit Free Press  

Mike Huckaby, age 54, was a long beloved figure on the Detroit scene. Mr. Huckaby's soulful, studied work made him one of the prominent early figures in Detroit techno and house music. With a musician's ear and a scholar's sensibility, Mr. Huckaby adventurously and diligently bridged the emotive sounds of house music with the precision of techno. Mr. Huckaby was an avant-garde jazz fan with an interest in philosophy, fascinated by the relationship of music and mathematics. Mr. Huckaby passed away in April 2020.

Source: Detroit Free Press

Steve Hudson, age 51, was a long-time assistant for Mac Irvin Fire, an elite Chicago AAU team. “Everybody loved him,” his wife said. Mr. Hudson died on April 5, 2020.

Source: Chicago Tribune

Wiley Huff, 73, was an educator, an attorney, and, most recently, the director of the Equal Employment Opportunity Division at the Broward Sheriff’s Office. Mr. Huff had a passion for helping people and was the kind of guy who never did anything by accident, said his daughter. Mr. Huff passed away in early August 2020. 

Source: Local10.com

Pamela Hughes, age 50, worked at Summit Manor, a nursing home in Kentucky, for 32 years. Ms. Hughes knew which residents preferred chocolate milk or applesauce with their medication and she remembered their favorite outfits and colors. Ms. Hughes passed away on April 13, 2020.

Source: The Guardian

Dr. Albasha Hume, age 63, was the men's health director at Open Cities Health Center.  Originally from Tanzania, Dr. Hume was passionate about helping Black communities and other people of color. Although he worked remotely for the first months of the pandemic. Mr. Hume died on June 14, 2020. 

Source: KSTP

 Marion “Curtis” Hunt, age 57, was a social worker at Cornell Scott-Hill Health Center, New Reach that went “above and beyond. ”Hunt, the youngest of four brothers, earned his master’s in social work from Fordham University at 52, and was baptized at his brother’s Pentecostal church at 54. He was a devoted uncle who doted on his dog and cat, Mya and Milo. Mr. Hunt passed way on March 23, 2020.

Source: The Guardian

Angie Hunter, 57, was a loving mother and wife. Ms. Hunter was also a human resources executive. She passed away on July 30, 2020 at Emory Johns Creek Hospital, four days after her husband, Eugene Hunter, age 59 and a musician, also succumbed to the virus. The couple were together for 35 years and met in college. They are survived by their 17-year-old son, Justin Hunter.

Source: OnlineAthens

Eugene Hunter, age 59,  was a loving father, husband, and musician. Mr. Hunter passed away on July 26, 2020, four days before his wife also succumbed to the virus. They are survived by their 17-year-old son.

Source: Today

Ronald Huston, age 72, examined race relations from a variety of perspectives as a career Boston Globe reporter. Mr. Huston died in the spring of 2020.

Source: Boston Globe

   Randy Hutchins, age 67, was a navy veteran, trained physician's assistant, and Jiu-Jitsu teacher. Mr. Hutchins was a part of the faculty of the Hahnemann University Physician Assistant program and a 32nd degree Mason. Mr. Hutchins developed an interest in the discipline of Jiu-Jitsu while in the Navy and eventually became a 10th-degree black belt and founded Sho Bushido Ryu Jiu-Jitsu. Mr. Hutchins passed away on November 12, 2020. Source: Legacy.com

Edward Ikem Gbemudu, age 60, was an Olive Branch and Baptist Memorial Hospital-DeSoto physician. He’s was also a very compassionate and caring physician who took the best medical approach to assist his patients, never giving up on them. He passed away January 1, 2021. Source: WREG Memphis

Debra Ivory, age 62, was a beloved restaurant owner in Oklahoma City. Ms’ ivory’s restaurant, George's Happy Hog Barbecue, is one of a few remaining Black-owned businesses in the metro. Ms. Ivory is remembered as a mother, sister, aunt and friend to many on the Northeast side. “She always had a warm, mellow, pleasant, kind heart — my baby sister," her brother said. Known for her shining smile, Ms. Ivory passed away on December 13, 2020.

Source: KOCO

Henry Arthur Jackson, age 70, spent a lifetime defying the odds. When he was four months old, Mr. Jackson was diagnosed with spinal meningitis. Though his mother was told he would not live past his 4th birthday, Mr. Jackson eventually learned to walk, survived the horrors of Willowbrook State School, and lived a long life loved by his family. Mr. Jackson passed away in the spring of 2020.

Source: Spectrum News

Luevella Jackson, age 87, was born in the Jim Crow South in 1932. Ms. Jackson married young and worked in the fields with her husband as a sharecropper until her family went north, joining the Great Migration and settling in Washington, DC. Ms. Jackson worked hard at a variety of jobs, including many years as a beautician and a stint as one of the first female bus drivers employed by D.C. schools. On May 30, 2020, Ms. Jackson — lover of music, pillar of her church and neighborhood, and friend and educator of her large family — passed away. 

Source: Washington Post

Alfonzia "AJ" Jackson, age 35, was a loving son, husband and father who was affectionately known as “Girl Dad” to those he loved. Mr. Jackson passed away on February 2, 2021 and is survived by his wife and children.

Source: Twitter

Damien ‘Big Jack’ Jackson, age 42, was a coach and mathematics teacher at Dreher High School in South Carolina. Throughout his life, Damien cared about other people more than he cared about himself. One of his greatest loves next to his students, family, and his faith, was football. He rooted for the Tennessee Volunteers and Green Bay Packers. This love for football also translated into his innate ability to lead and get into the mind of his athletes by understanding their needs without being confrontational as a coach. Damien passed away on March 29, 2021. Source: The Post and Courier 

Darlene Jackson, age 61, was a critical nurse, educator, and mentor. She was known for her caring and amazing bedside manor and fashionable attire. She planned on continuing her nursing career as a teacher being closer to home in New York. Ms. Jackson passed away February 8, 2021.  Source: Facebook  

Grant Jackson, age 78, was one of the most important players in the 1979 Pirates’ bullpen, going 8-5 with over 82 innings pitched and the winning pitcher of game seven of the 1979 World Series. Mr. Jackson was also a bullpen coach with Chuck Tanner after his playing career, for the  Pirates in 1983. During his career, he always gave words of wisdom and taught his players how to be better teammates and future coaches by being sincere, genuine, most importantly transparent. Outside of his dedication to baseball, he was a great friend and confidant. His love for the game did not fail to translate into his love and compassion toward his colleagues, family, and community in the city of Pittsburgh. He passed away early Tuesday morning February 2, 2021. Source: DK Pittsburgh Sports

Nacoma James, age 42, was a teacher for the Lafayette County School District for more than 15 years. Mr. James served as an assistant football coach his entire tenure at Lafayette and also served as the boys’ head basketball coach from 2012 to 2015, earning him the nickname “Coach James.” Mr. James passed away in August 2020. 

Source: Oxford Eagle

Nicholas Nathaniel James, Sr., age 85, was born in Detroit’s black bottom neighborhood. Mr. James served in the United States Army where he received an honorable discharge in 1962. Mr. James was a snazzy dresser, an active member at his church, and loved sports. Mr. James passed away March 30, 2020.

Source: Detroit Free Press

Ronald Jamison, age 77, was a paramedic in the Air Force, an avid reader of science and military books, and a fan of the Dallas Cowboys, despite being Philly born and raised. Mr. Jamison died on April 18, 2020.

Source: Philadelphia Inquirer

Jason Jarvis Holland, age 47, was always on a mission to save some part of the world. Mr. Holland loved comic books and art, but loved his family and friends even more. Mr. Holland died on July 25, 2020. Source: Facebook  

Diane A. Jasmine, age 70 a retired nurse and a pastor at Choice International Ministries. Ms. Jasmine passed away on April 10, 2020.

Source: L'Observateur

Edward Jasmine Sr., age 71, was a retired professional Welder and a Pastor at Choice International Ministries. Mr. Jasmine passed away on April 10, 2020.

Source: L'Observateur

Henriot “Chaco” Jean-Pierre, age 76, was a successful entrepreneur who started and ran several businesses in Brooklyn. Well-known amongst the Harian community, Mr. Jean-Pierre died on April 5, 2020. He was 76.

Source: Haitian Times

Ghislaine Jean-Simon, age 64, was a proud Haitian. 

Source: Haitian Times

Saymon Jefferson, age 94, joined the Army and served in World War II around the age of 16. Mr. Jefferson then found his way back to Louisiana where he started a job at a local company called Jenkins Construction, working his way up from an entry-level position to foreman across the decades. Mr. Jefferson died on April 1, 2020, days after his brother also succumbed to the virus.

Source: The Advocate

Saymon Jefferson, age 94, was a social butterfly with unfailing optimism, steadfast faith, and deep love of family. “There wasn’t a story he couldn’t remember. He amazed people with his quick wit, with his ability to recall any situation," said his granddaughter. died  Saymon Jefferson died on April 1, 2020, days after his brother also succumbed to the virus. 

Source: The Advocate

Wilson Roosevelt Jerman, age 91, was a longtime butler at the White House and a man who left an impression. Mr. Jerman had grown up so poor in rural North Carolina, that he had to put cardboard in his shoes when they wore out. Mr. Jerman left school after seventh grade to help support his family, but with diligence, discretion, and grace he rose to spend much of his life as a witness to history in Washington. Mr. Jerman passed away on May 16, 2020.

Source: Washington Post

Charles “Duffy” Jernigan, age 61, was a celebrated Hartford Public High School basketball player in the 1970s and a presence in area gyms most of his life. Mr, Jernigan died in April 2020. 

Source: Hartford Courant

Though Charles Johnson was a Louisiana native, he and his wife were Warren Central athletic’s biggest fans. Rain or shine, they traveled to home and away games across Indians, and supported the girls’ basketball team even after a long stretch of losses. He passed away from complications due to COVID-19 in March. He was 79.

Darell Johnson, age 43, worked in the guidance office at Morristown High School and part-time at Morristown Medical Center. Mr. Johnson was born and raised in Morristown, New Jersey, a community he remained committed to his entire life, said New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy. Mr. Johnson passed away in April 2020.

Source: ABC News

Kyra Johnson, age 52, worked at a Burger King near LSU campus. Ms. Johnson passed away in March 2020 and is survived by four adult children and six grandchildren. 

Source: The Advocate

   Thomas “Anthony” Johnson, 51, was an autoworker at the Ford Assembly plant in Wayne, Michigan. Mr. Johnson was a husband, father, and grandfather, who adored his children and grandchildren – all girls – and put family first. "My husband touched everybody's heart,” said his wife. Mr. Johnson passed away on March 31, 2020. Source: Detroit Free Press

Warren Johnson, age 50, was a child advocate for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. Mr. Johnson taught elementary and middle school as a substitute teacher in East St. Louis and Detroit. Mr. Johnson was a mason and played football and basketball. Mr. Johnnson died on March 20, 2020. Source: Detroit Free Press  

Dwight Jones, age 73, was a Detroit basketball coach, teacher, mentor, and Mumford High School icon. Mr. Jones was admired by countless players and students and was known to be honest, straightforward, and willing to push his players and students to be their best. 

Source: Detroit Free Press

When Keith A. Jones arrived at the nursing facility where he worked every night at 7 p.m. residents lined the hallway. Mr. Jones had been a licensed practical nurse for 16 years, and his patients “absolutely loved him," said his sister. Mr. Jones, a veteran, died on May 9, 2020.

Source: CNN

Larry Jones, age 61, was a movie buff and car fanatic who always well-dressed. If Mr. Jones wasn’t at a construction site or officiating a sports game, he was wearing a suit. “He was very much into fashion. He was always dressed to a T,” said his son. Mr. Jones died on April 13, 2020.

Source: Chicago Tribune

Lynn Jones, age 52, was a deputy with the Lake County Sheriff's Office in Florida and served the county for 13 years. Mr. Jones was most recently assigned to the Lake County Jail. "He loved his career, his agency and especially his family," the department said. 

Source: ABC News

Kevelin B. Jones, age 72, was a well-known pastor in Michigan. “I would describe him as a hero to many...a father to many,” said his son. Mr. Jones passed away on March 26, 2020. 

Source: NNC25News

Patrick Jones, age 49, wanted to return to Texas and open a restaurant, serving everything from tacos to brisket to soul food. Mr. Jones was serving 27 years in federal prison, a sentence he hoped to appeal, when he passed away on March 28, 2020. 

Source: NOLA.com

Sallie Jones, age 86, was always playing the piano. When her granddaughter would leave for school early in the morning, Ms. Jones’ fingers would already be flickering over the keys playing a gospel tune and would get home, she’d be welcomed by the smell of Ms. Jones’ delicious meals and by the sound of her piano as well. Ms. Jones worked as a nurse for nearly six years and spent most of her adult life as a stay-at-home mother and homemaker. Ms. Jones died of COVID-19 on March 27, 2020. 

Source: LA Times

Maude Jones, age 64, was a special education paraprofessional at Rock Springs Elementary School in Georgia. Ms. Jones was born and raised in Liberia, where she earned a college degree and taught before immigrating to New York in 1987. Ms. Jones’ relatives described her as the backbone of the family and said she kept in touch with relatives around the world, sending birthday gifts even to those she’d never met. Ms. Jones was a devout Christian who never missed a church service. Ms. Jones died on January 4, 2021. Source: Atlanta Journal-Constitution  

Leiah D. Jones, age 33, was champion of outcastes, baker of bread, and caregiver to family and small animals in Charlotte, North Carolina. Ms. Jones wrote her own obituary, signing it “With all my love, Leiah.” Ms. Jones passed away on March 12, 2020. Source: Alexander Funeral Home

Paul ‘Pauly’ Jones, age 40, was a much-loved fiancé, dad, son, brother, nephew, cousin, and friend to many - he is engaged to Sasha (Alexandra Saland) and Dad to Jonesie (13), Tatyana (8) and Asher (22 months). Paul was known to have so much love for his family and a heart of gold, doing anything he could for his friends, family, and community in Hamptons, New York. He passed away on February 26, 2021. Source: Dan's Papers

Helen Jones Wood, age 96, played trombone in the International Sweethearts of Rhythm, a multiracial all-female jazz group. Ms. Woods played for the Omaha Symphony and later returned to school, studying at Creighton University and the University of Nebraska, and then worked for 30 years as a registered nurse and social worker. Ms. Woods died on July 25, 2020. 

Source: New York Times

Bobby Jonz, age 84, who was born Bob Willy Jones, was a a prominent Soul and Blues singer. He lived and performed his legendary blues numbers in Las Vegas, Nevada. Jonz had a series of single recordings released by local Chicago labels throughout the 1960s and 1970s. He had several Southern Soul albums released during the 1980s and 1990s. He had hits with “In The Mood For Love” and “Sneakin’ & Freakin.” Mr. Jonz died on July 21. 2020 at Veteran's Hospital in North Las Vegas.

Source: 8 news Now Las Vegas

Leilani Margurite Jordan, age 27, was a part-time supermarket employee who loved singing, going to chirch, and helping customers at her job. Ms. Jordan's mother recalled that her daughter said “‘Mommy, I’m going to work because no one else is going to help the senior citizens get their groceries.’ She only stopped going to work when she could no longer breathe.” Nicknamed "Butterfly" for her love of butterflies, Ms. Jordan passed away in the spring of 2020. 

Source: Washington Post

Frederick K.C. Price, age 89, founded the Crenshaw Christian Center in Inglewood, CA, in 1973, growing its membership from 300 at its inception to over 28,000. Mr. Price also ran televangelism broadcast through Ever Increasing Faith Ministries that made him a popular voice for Black Christians. “He fought the good fight of faith and laid hold of eternal life,” said a statement by his family. Mr. Price passed away on February 12, 2021.

Source:  New York Times  

Calvin Kaintuck, age 91, worked riding horses until he was 85, most recently at Belmont Park in New York. His family estimates that from the first time he rode on a horse-drawn cart driven by the local milkman to retirement, Kaintuck had ridden more than 45,000 horses. “A life around horses and riding them wasn’t just a job, it was meditation and a passion,” said his son. Mr. Kaintuck passed away on April 22, 2020. 

Source: The Undefeated

Vania Underwood, age 36, was a nurse at Mercy St. Vincent Hospital in Toledo, Ohio. Ms. Underwood was a wife and a mother of six who worked in the hospital’s COVID-19 unit. Ms. Underwood passed away on December 19, 2020. Source: WTOL 11  

Wanda Kay Johnson, age 63, is remembered as "a beautiful soul who loved her family and friends." A beloved matriarch, Ms. Johnson passed away on December 18, 2020.

Source:  Faces of COVID (Twitter)

   Timothy Kelley, 41, was a husband and father in Helena, Alabama. Mr. Kelley was a gifted musician and bass player in multiple churches in the Birmingham area. Mr. Kelley passed away on November 11, 2020. Source: Facebook

Kious Kelly, age 48, was an assistant nurse manager at Mount Sinai West in Manhattan. Before the pandemic reached the United Stated, Mr. Kelly was highlighted in the hospital’s blog for helping a family deal with a patient’s death. Mr. Kelly died on March 24, 2020, perhaps the first nurse in New York lost to the virus.

Source: New York Times

Wanda Key, age 63, provided services within the mental health community for 30 years. Ms. Key was a friend, trusted colleague, and compassionate servant to her patients. Ms. Key died on August 24, 2020.

Source: Faces of COVID

Cinnamon Key, age 41, was a graduate of the BSW and MSW program at Barry University, an entrepreneur, and a therapist who dedicated much in her life’s work to being a leader and helping others. Cinnamon was also a communicator and joyful spirit who offered spiritual healing and insight to women and young girls throughout her career as a CEO and Lead Therapist at Jamilla Wellness LLC in Florida. Cinnamon passed away on April 15, 2021. Source: Tribute Archive  

Margie Kidd, age 71, loved to teach. Ms. Kidd was simply good at it and had spent 26 years teaching kindergarten and first grade. She earned her teaching degree in Savannah and then began her more than two-decade career at Ridgeland Elementary School, first working with kindergartners and later moving to first grade. Ms. Kidd passed away on September 28, 2020 at Coastal Carolina Hospital in Hardeeville, South Carolina.

Source: The Island Packet

Curwin King, age 59, was known for his kind bedside manner and playful banter. Mr. King worked as a recovery room attendant and nursing assistant at SUNY Downstate Medical center and was proud of his Barbados roots. Mr. King passed away on April 8, 2020.

Source: The Guardian 

Donnie Kirksey, age 57, coached at multiple high schools in Chicago throughout his decades-long career and at the collegiate level for Chicago State, University of Illinois-Chicago and DePaul University as an assistant coach. "Words can’t speak enough to impact he had on this community," said a long-time friend. "If you were part of one of his teams you were part of Donnie’s family," said a coworker. Mr. Kirksey passed away on December 28, 2020.

Source: NBC 5 Chicago

Esther Bryant Kyles, age 64, and her husband found joy in generosity — giving time and money to those in need. Together, they infused a mission of service into their small Renton ministry. With a hearty laugh and a listening ear, Mrs. Kyles was a reliable source of comfort. “Whatever anybody needed, she was there,” said her sister. Mrs. Kyles held CPR trainings, taught computer skills, and made passengers feel welcomed as they boarded a vessel with Washington State Ferries, where she worked for 25 years in various roles. Mrs. Kyles died on March 28, 2020, and her husband died ten days later. 

Source: Seattle Times

Pastor Edwin Kyles Jr., age 75, and his wife found joy in generosity — giving time and money to those in need. Together, they infused a mission of service into their small Washington state ministry. Pastor Kyles was born in New Orleans and was extremely proud of his Southern roots. Pastor Kyles served in Vietnam for the U.S. Army and later worked for Boeing for more than 15 years until he retired and became a full-time pastor. Pastor Kyles passed away on April 7, 2020, ten days after his wife also succumbed to the virus. 

Source: Seattle Times

   Tremayne Bester, age 35, was a beloved son, brother, and friend from Shuqualak, Mississippi. Mr. Bester passed away on September 1, 2020. Source: Carter’s Funeral Service

Derek Lamar Buford, age 47, was a musician at Great Phillip Temple. Derek played the drums, rode a motorcycle, and always had cookouts with his friends and family. He also was an active member in his church, an amazing husband to his wife, Tenisha, and father to his kids. He passed away March 26, 2020. Source: Kemp Funeral Home

Colette Lamothe-Galette, age 45, was Senior Program Officer at The Nicholson Foundation. With an effervescent personality and unfailingly positive disposition, Ms. Lamothe-Galette brought joy to those around her. She will be deeply missed by her family, her colleagues, her community, and all of those whose lives she touched. Moreover, the entire state of New Jersey has tragically lost a public health leader – one driven by a commitment to health equity and expertise in strategies to reduce health disparities. Ms. Lamothe-Galette passed away on April 4, 2020. 

Source: The Nicholas Foundation

Donna Langley, age 80, had a love for seafood that started a family tradition that her children called “Fish Fridays,” a day where she’d fry porgies and fish fillets. Ms. Langley's daughter remembers her as a woman who faced life’s hardships with no complaints. Ms. Langley died on April 11, 2020. 

Source: The Undefeated

James Nee Lartey, age 84, adored his wife, Linda, and his daughters, and put them above all else. "I enjoyed his laugh," his daughter Victoria Lartey-Williams says. "I'll miss that -- his energy. He always made me feel safe and secure." Mr. Lartey passed away on April 2, 2020. 

Source: CNN

Leslie Leake, age 74, was a retired postal clerk. Ms. Leake passed her golden days in contentment and could be found assembling floral bouquets, singing softly to herself, and doting on her grandchildren and great-grandchildren when they visited. One of several members of her family to contract COVID-19, Ms. Leake passed away in April, days after two of her children also succumbed to the virus.

Source: Washington Post

Nicky Leake, age 45, was a mother of three and worked in administration at MedStar Washington Hospital Center. Ms. Leake passed away on April 11, 2020 days before her mother, Leslie, and brother, John, succumbed to the virus.

Source: Washington Post

John Leake Jr., age 40, was “the type of person, regardless of whether you’re having a bad day, you can depend on him to make you laugh,” said his sister. Mr. Leake worked in communications at the U.S. Postal Service headquarters and had part-time gigs at a grocery store and a hotel. Mr. Leake's sister remembers him as “the type of person, regardless of whether you’re having a bad day, you can depend on him to make you laugh.” Mr. Leake passed away on April 28, 2020, and was one of several members of his family to succumb to the virus.

Source: Washington Post 

Otis Knapp Lee, age 72, was a retired Detroit restaurateur. Mr. Lee was widely admired for serving up massive corned-beef sandwiches at his former Midtown deli called Mr. Fofo’s, and beloved for giving away thousands of Thanksgiving turkeys to all who lined up each November around his eatery. Mr. Lee died on April 5, 2020. 

Source: Detroit Free Press

Walter Lee Armstrong, age 65, was a journeyman from Macomb County, Michigan. Mr. Armstrong loved to fish, barbecue, and cruise in his Camaro. Mr. Armstrong died on April 8, 2020. Source: Detroit Free Press.  

Eddie Lee Jackson Sr., age 71, was A longtime educator, community leader and the “Dean of Politics” in East St. Louis. Mr. Jackson served in the Illinois House of Representatives for eight years after retiring from a lengthy career as a science teacher and administrator in East St. Louis School District 189. Mr. Jackson is remembered as “a protector, provider, and the cornerstone for his family’s foundation.” Mr. Jackson passed away on December 18, 2020. Source: Belleville News-Democrat  

Hansel Leon, age 77, beat the iron and added “riddim” in most soca/calypso parties and concerts in Brooklyn. A diehard fan of calypso, steelpan, carnival and other events that promoted the culture of Trinidad & Tobago, “Hanny,” as he was popularly known, passed away on March 25, 2020. 

Source: Everybody's Caribbean Magazine

Myron Emmanuel Lett, age 71, had a heart of gold. Mr. Lett loved helping people who were less fortunate through actions of delivering food baskets and other necessities throughout the community. Mr. Lett passed away on March 25, 2020.

Source: Detroit Free Press

Willie Levi, age 73, was sent away from his home in Texas to Iowa in 1974, where he and other men with intellectual disabilities worked in virtual servitude at a turkey-processing plant for decades. Mr. Levi was a claimant in a successful lawsuit by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission that championed proper pay and working conditions for people with disabilities. Mr. Levi died on April 23, 2020. 

Source: New York Times

Michael Lewis, age 65, forged a new life after a few decades in and out of prison. Mr. Lewis counseled people who were newly released on how to adjust to life on the outside and handed out backpacks with essential items to houseless people in his neighborhood. Mr. Lewis died on May 14, 2020.

Source: New York Times