Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025

Source: John Lamparski / Getty

UPDATED: 12:00am EST February 21st, 2025

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.

Voletta Wallace, the beloved mother of hip-hop icon The Notorious B.I.G., passed away at the age of 72. She died on Friday morning in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, under hospice care. The cause of death has been reported as natural causes, according to Monroe County Coroner Thomas Yanac.

Known for her unwavering dedication to preserving her son’s legacy, Voletta remained a guiding force behind the scenes following Biggie’s tragic death in 1997. After losing her son—born Christopher Wallace—at the age of 24, she took on the immense responsibility of managing his estate and carrying the torch of his enduring impact on music and culture. At the time of his passing, Biggie’s estate was valued at around $10 million. Under Voletta’s diligent oversight, that figure grew to an estimated $160 million, a testament to her business acumen and devotion.

Beyond the financial realm, Voletta celebrated and amplified her son’s legacy in many heartfelt ways. She frequently shared posts on social media celebrating Biggie’s achievements, from his chart-topping hits to his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. She also played an instrumental role in bringing her son’s life story to the forefront through the 2009 biopic Notorious, which provided fans a glimpse into the life and career of the hip-hop legend.

Source: Jack Vartoogian/Getty Images / Getty

Jerry Butler, affectionately known as “The Iceman,” passed away on Thursday (Feb. 20th at the age of 85 at his home in Chicago. A monumental figure in music and politics, Butler’s contributions spanned decades, leaving an indelible mark on both the entertainment industry and his community.

Born in 1939 in Sunflower, Mississippi, Butler grew up in Chicago’s Cabrini-Green housing complex. Despite humble beginnings, his passion for music blossomed early. Alongside Curtis Mayfield, he joined the gospel group Northern Jubilee Singers, transitioning later to form the legendary R&B group, The Impressions. Their early hit, “For Your Precious Love,” became an anthem of the 1950s and launched them to stardom. The group’s music, often dubbed the sound of the Civil Rights Movement, resonated deeply, reflecting the social struggles and aspirations of the era.

Butler embarked on a successful solo career, earning his moniker for his cool, smooth vocals and timeless hits such as “Only the Strong Survive” and “Never Gonna Give You Up.” Teaming up with influential producers like Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff, he played a pivotal role in defining the soulful Philly sound. His songs have been sampled by artists across generations, including Missy Elliott and Snoop Dogg.

Beyond his music career, Butler committed himself to public service, leveraging his popularity to champion his community’s needs. From 1985 to 2018, he served on the Cook County, Illinois  Board as a commissioner, advocating for public health initiatives and social equity. Supported by the late Mayor Harold Washington, Butler’s political career demonstrated his unwavering commitment to shaping a better future for Chicagoans.

Learn more below about who in our culture has passed away so far this year in 2025 Below