Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2024

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UPDATED: 12:30 p.m. ET., July 14th, 2024

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

Former NFL Wide Receiver Jacoby Jones passed away in his sleep at his home in suburban Houston.

Jones was a third-round pick by the Houston Texans out of Lane College. During his time with the Texans, he showcased his versatility as a wide receiver and kick returner, quickly gaining a reputation for his explosive speed and agility. In 2012, Jones signed with the Baltimore Ravens, a move that would cement his place in NFL history.

The Ravens released a statement saying, :”We are completely heartbroken to learn about the passing of Jacoby Jones. Jacoby had the unique ability to connect with everyone he encountered. His charisma, joy and love created a one-of-a-kind presence that could light up any room or brighten any dark day. Jacoby will long be remembered not just for his success on the football field, but for the lasting personal connections he made with countless people in the Ravens organization, Baltimore community and every area he called home. We share our deepest condolences with Jacoby’s family as we all begin to process this devastating loss.”

One of the most iconic moments in Jacoby Jones’ career came during the AFC Divisional Playoff game against the Denver Broncos. With the Ravens trailing and only 31 seconds left on the clock, Jones caught a 70-yard touchdown pass from Ravens Quarterback Joe Flacco, a play now famously known as the “Mile-High Miracle.” This game-tying touchdown sent the game into overtime, where the Ravens eventually secured a victory, propelling them closer to the Super Bowl XLVII versus the San Fransisco 49ers.

In a performance which is the stuff of legend, Jones was a major contributor to the Ravens defeating the 49ers to win the big game. In the second quarter, Jones caught a 56-yard touchdown pass from Flacco. At the start of the second half, Jones returned a kickoff for a 108-yard touchdown, setting a Super Bowl record for the longest kickoff return. This electrifying play earned him the nickname “The Electrifying One” and played a crucial role in the Ravens’ eventual 34-31 victory.

Jones had spent time with the Pittsburgh Steelers and San Diego Chargers.

Jones was 40 years old.

Learn more below about who in our culture has passed away so far this year in 2024 Below

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