Sam Sarpong, former model and MTV co-host, dies at 40

Lisa Respers France
By Lisa Respers France, CNN
2 minute read
Updated 5:24 PM EDT, Thu October 29, 2015
Look back at<a href="http://www.cnn.com/specials/world/obit-2015" target="_blank"> people who died</a> in 2015.
Look back at people who died in 2015.
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2016/01/01/entertainment/natalie-cole-death/index.html" target="_blank">Natalie Cole</a>, daughter of Nat King Cole and winner of six Grammys for her 1991 album "Unforgettable: With Love," died Thursday, December 31, her publicist said. She was 65.
Natalie Cole, daughter of Nat King Cole and winner of six Grammys for her 1991 album "Unforgettable: With Love," died Thursday, December 31, her publicist said. She was 65.
Gabriel Bouys/AFP/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2016/01/01/entertainment/obit-wayne-rogers/index.html" target="_blank">Wayne Rogers</a>, who portrayed wise-cracking Army surgeon "Trapper John" McIntyre in the first three seasons of TV's "M*A*S*H," died Thursday, December 31, his publicist said. He was 82.
Wayne Rogers, who portrayed wise-cracking Army surgeon "Trapper John" McIntyre in the first three seasons of TV's "M*A*S*H," died Thursday, December 31, his publicist said. He was 82.
CBS/AP
Legendary Motorhead frontman <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/12/28/entertainment/lemmy-motrhead-death/index.html" target="_blank">Lemmy Kilmister</a> died Monday, December 28 after a short battle with cancer, his bandmates announced. He was 70.
Legendary Motorhead frontman Lemmy Kilmister died Monday, December 28 after a short battle with cancer, his bandmates announced. He was 70.
Jason Kempin/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/12/28/entertainment/haskell-wexler-dead-feat/index.html" target="_blank">Haskell Wexler</a>, the influential cinematographer who won Oscars for his work on 1966's "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?" and 1976's "Bound for Glory," died Sunday, December 27, his son said. He was 93.
Haskell Wexler, the influential cinematographer who won Oscars for his work on 1966's "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?" and 1976's "Bound for Glory," died Sunday, December 27, his son said. He was 93.
Newmarket/Everett Collection
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/12/28/entertainment/meadowlark-lemon-obit-globetrotters-feat/index.html" target="_blank">George "Meadowlark" Lemon</a> -- known to many as the "Clown Prince of Basketball" with the Harlem Globetrotters -- died Sunday, December 27. He was 83.
George "Meadowlark" Lemon -- known to many as the "Clown Prince of Basketball" with the Harlem Globetrotters -- died Sunday, December 27. He was 83.
CBS via Getty Images
Former Major League Baseball outfielder <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/12/27/us/dave-henderson-dies/index.html" target="_blank">Dave Henderson</a> died Sunday, December 27, not long after having a kidney transplant. He was 57.
Former Major League Baseball outfielder Dave Henderson died Sunday, December 27, not long after having a kidney transplant. He was 57.
Otto Greule, Jr./Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/12/19/living/kurt-masur-philharmonic-conductor-dies-feat/index.html" target="_blank">Kurt Masur</a>, the legendary German music conductor credited with transforming the New York Philharmonic into an orchestra of international renown, died December 19. He was 88.
Kurt Masur, the legendary German music conductor credited with transforming the New York Philharmonic into an orchestra of international renown, died December 19. He was 88.
SEBASTIAN WILLNOW/AFP/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/12/10/us/nba-legend-dolph-schayes-dies-at-age-87/index.html" target="_blank">Dolph Schayes</a>, who was one of the NBA's first superstars and is considered by many to be the best Jewish player in league history, died December 10 after a long battle with cancer, according to NBA.com. He was 87.
Dolph Schayes, who was one of the NBA's first superstars and is considered by many to be the best Jewish player in league history, died December 10 after a long battle with cancer, according to NBA.com. He was 87.
The Stevenson Collection/NBAE/Getty Images
Actor <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/12/04/entertainment/robert-loggia-obit/index.html" target="_blank">Robert Loggia</a> was known for film roles in "Scarface," "Jagged Edge," "Big" and "Prizzi's Honor." He died December 4 at age 85.
Actor Robert Loggia was known for film roles in "Scarface," "Jagged Edge," "Big" and "Prizzi's Honor." He died December 4 at age 85.
George Rose/Hulton Archive/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/12/04/entertainment/scott-weiland-stone-temple-pilots-death/index.html" target="_blank">Scott Weiland</a>, lead singer of Stone Temple Pilots and Velvet Revolver, died December 3 at age 48. Weiland died of an <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/12/18/entertainment/scott-weiland-cause-of-death-feat/" target="_blank">accidental overdose</a> of alcohol and drugs, the Hennepin County (Minnesota) Medical Examiner's Office said.
Scott Weiland, lead singer of Stone Temple Pilots and Velvet Revolver, died December 3 at age 48. Weiland died of an accidental overdose of alcohol and drugs, the Hennepin County (Minnesota) Medical Examiner's Office said.
Larry Busacca/Getty Images
Film star and TV actress <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/12/12/entertainment/marjorie-lord-dies-feat/index.html" target="_blank">Marjorie Lord</a>, who rose to fame in the Golden Age of Hollywood and on the TV show "Make Room for Daddy," died on November 28, according to daughter Anne Archer. She was 97.
Film star and TV actress Marjorie Lord, who rose to fame in the Golden Age of Hollywood and on the TV show "Make Room for Daddy," died on November 28, according to daughter Anne Archer. She was 97.
ABC Photo Archives/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/11/25/entertainment/cynthia-robinson-sly-family-stone-obit/index.html" target="_blank">Cynthia Robinson</a>, shown here in a San Francisco recording studio, was the pioneering trumpeter for the psychedelic soul group Sly and the Family Stone. She died November 23 at the age of 71.
Cynthia Robinson, shown here in a San Francisco recording studio, was the pioneering trumpeter for the psychedelic soul group Sly and the Family Stone. She died November 23 at the age of 71.
Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images/FILE
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/11/17/sport/jonah-lomu-obit/index.html" target="_blank">Jonah Lomu</a>, a former rugby player from New Zealand widely regarded as one of the game's finest players, died in Auckland, New Zealand, on November 18. He was 40. Lomu's career was cut short when he was diagnosed with Nephrotic syndrome, a kidney condition, and he underwent a kidney transplant in 2004.
Jonah Lomu, a former rugby player from New Zealand widely regarded as one of the game's finest players, died in Auckland, New Zealand, on November 18. He was 40. Lomu's career was cut short when he was diagnosed with Nephrotic syndrome, a kidney condition, and he underwent a kidney transplant in 2004.
Phil Walter/Getty Images AsiaPac/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/11/24/entertainment/david-canary-dies-all-my-children-feat/index.html" target="_blank">David Canary</a>, who for nearly three decades played twin brothers Adam and Stuart Chandler on the ABC soap opera "All My Children," died November 16, his family said. He was 77.
David Canary, who for nearly three decades played twin brothers Adam and Stuart Chandler on the ABC soap opera "All My Children," died November 16, his family said. He was 77.
Lorenzo Bevilaqua/ABC/Getty Images
The family of actor <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/11/12/entertainment/nathaniel-marston-accident-obit-feat/" target="_blank">Nathaniel Marston</a> announced November 11 that he had died after being seriously injured in an October 30 car crash in Reno, Nevada. The 40-year-old's resume included "One Life to Live" and "As the World Turns."
The family of actor Nathaniel Marston announced November 11 that he had died after being seriously injured in an October 30 car crash in Reno, Nevada. The 40-year-old's resume included "One Life to Live" and "As the World Turns."
Mark Sullivan/WireImage/getty images/file
Former baseball pitcher <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/11/12/us/tommy-hanson-death-baseball-pitcher/" target="_blank">Tommy Hanson</a>, one of the sport's top draft prospects in 2006, died November 9, the team said. He was 29. An incident report from the Coweta County Sheriff's Office stated that Hanson had suffered an overdose, but added that "the cause and manner of death is still being looked at" and that "there is no indication or suspicion of foul play."
Former baseball pitcher Tommy Hanson, one of the sport's top draft prospects in 2006, died November 9, the team said. He was 29. An incident report from the Coweta County Sheriff's Office stated that Hanson had suffered an overdose, but added that "the cause and manner of death is still being looked at" and that "there is no indication or suspicion of foul play."
Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images
New Orleans R&B legend<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/11/10/entertainment/allen-toussaint-obit-feat/index.html" target="_blank"> Allen Toussaint</a> died November 9 at the age of 77, his son said. Artists in nearly every major genre recorded Toussaint's songs or collaborated with him, including the Rolling Stones, the Yardbirds, Herb Alpert, Glen Campbell, Robert Palmer and Elvis Costello.
New Orleans R&B legend Allen Toussaint died November 9 at the age of 77, his son said. Artists in nearly every major genre recorded Toussaint's songs or collaborated with him, including the Rolling Stones, the Yardbirds, Herb Alpert, Glen Campbell, Robert Palmer and Elvis Costello.
David Redfern/Redferns/getty images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/11/08/entertainment/gunnar-hansen-texas-chainsaw-massacre-obit-feat/index.html" target="_blank">Gunnar Hansen</a>, who played the iconic villain Leatherface in the original "Texas Chainsaw Massacre" movie, died November 7 at his home in Maine. He was 68.
Gunnar Hansen, who played the iconic villain Leatherface in the original "Texas Chainsaw Massacre" movie, died November 7 at his home in Maine. He was 68.
Robert F. Bukaty/AP
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/11/05/entertainment/george-barris-custom-cars-batmobile-dies/index.html" target="_blank">George Barris</a>, the Batmobile creator whose talent for turning Detroit iron into decked-out automotive fantasies earned him the nickname "King of the Kustomizers," died on November 5. He was 89.
George Barris, the Batmobile creator whose talent for turning Detroit iron into decked-out automotive fantasies earned him the nickname "King of the Kustomizers," died on November 5. He was 89.
Bloomberg/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/11/04/entertainment/et-screenwriter-melissa-mathison-feat/" target="_blank">Melissa Mathison</a>, screenwriter of "E.T. The Extra Terrestrial" and "The Black Stallion," died November 4 at the age of 65. She was married to Harrison Ford from 1983 to 2004.
Melissa Mathison, screenwriter of "E.T. The Extra Terrestrial" and "The Black Stallion," died November 4 at the age of 65. She was married to Harrison Ford from 1983 to 2004.
Brenda Chase/Hulton Archive/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/11/01/us/fred-thompson-dies-tennessee/index.html" target="_blank">Fred Thompson</a>, a former actor and U.S. senator for Tennessee, died on November 1. He was 73. Thompson, a Republican, campaigned briefly for president in the 2008 election.
Fred Thompson, a former actor and U.S. senator for Tennessee, died on November 1. He was 73. Thompson, a Republican, campaigned briefly for president in the 2008 election.
Brendan Smialowski/Getty Images
Actor <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/10/31/entertainment/happy-days-star-al-molinaro-dies/" target="_blank">Al Molinaro</a>, best known for his role as Big Al Delvecchio in the sitcom "Happy Days," died October 30 in Glendale, California, his son Michael Molinaro said. He was 96.
Actor Al Molinaro, best known for his role as Big Al Delvecchio in the sitcom "Happy Days," died October 30 in Glendale, California, his son Michael Molinaro said. He was 96.
AP/Kenosha News
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/10/29/entertainment/sam-sarpong-obit-feat/index.html" target="_blank">Samuel Sarpong Jr.</a>, a model and former co-host of MTV's "Yo Momma," died October 26 after jumping off a bridge in Pasadena, California, authorities said. He was 40.
Samuel Sarpong Jr., a model and former co-host of MTV's "Yo Momma," died October 26 after jumping off a bridge in Pasadena, California, authorities said. He was 40.
Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images for BET
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/10/25/us/nba-flip-saunders-obit/" target="_blank">Phil "Flip" Saunders</a>, head coach of the NBA's Minnesota Timberwolves, died October 25, the team announced. Saunders also served as the team's president of basketball operations and part owner. He was 60. The veteran coach was being treated for Hodgkin lymphoma.
Phil "Flip" Saunders, head coach of the NBA's Minnesota Timberwolves, died October 25, the team announced. Saunders also served as the team's president of basketball operations and part owner. He was 60. The veteran coach was being treated for Hodgkin lymphoma.
Stephen Dunn/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/10/24/entertainment/actress-maureen-ohara-obituary/index.html" target="_blank">Maureen O'Hara</a>, the legendary Irish-born actress who starred in Golden Era classics such as "Miracle on 34th Street," "The Quiet Man" and "How Green Was My Valley," died October 24, longtime manager Johnny Nicoletti said. O'Hara died in her sleep of natural causes, according to the family statement provided by Nicoletti. She was 95.
Maureen O'Hara, the legendary Irish-born actress who starred in Golden Era classics such as "Miracle on 34th Street," "The Quiet Man" and "How Green Was My Valley," died October 24, longtime manager Johnny Nicoletti said. O'Hara died in her sleep of natural causes, according to the family statement provided by Nicoletti. She was 95.
Silver Screen Collection/Moviepix/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/10/21/entertainment/three-dog-night-cory-wells-dead-feat/" target="_blank">Cory Wells</a>, center, was one of the three lead singers of Three Dog Night along with Danny Hutton, left, and Chuck Negron. Wells died October 20 at his home in Dunkirk, New York. He was 74.
Cory Wells, center, was one of the three lead singers of Three Dog Night along with Danny Hutton, left, and Chuck Negron. Wells died October 20 at his home in Dunkirk, New York. He was 74.
Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/10/18/entertainment/star-trek-obit-bruce-hyde-feat/index.html" target="_blank">Bruce Hyde</a>, who played Enterprise crew member Lt. Kevin Riley on two episodes of the original "Star Trek" TV series, died October 13 after battling throat cancer, his widow said. He was 74.
Bruce Hyde, who played Enterprise crew member Lt. Kevin Riley on two episodes of the original "Star Trek" TV series, died October 13 after battling throat cancer, his widow said. He was 74.
From CBS/Paramount
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/10/15/americas/ken-taylor-dies/" target="_blank">Ken Taylor</a>, the former Canadian ambassador known for his role in the Iran hostage crisis, died October 15, CBC News reported. He was 81.
Ken Taylor, the former Canadian ambassador known for his role in the Iran hostage crisis, died October 15, CBC News reported. He was 81.
File/AP
Famed chef <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/10/08/entertainment/paul-prudhomme-obit/index.html" target="_blank">Paul Prudhomme</a> died October 8 at age 75, according to the New Orleans restaurant he owned, K-Paul's Louisiana Kitchen.
Famed chef Paul Prudhomme died October 8 at age 75, according to the New Orleans restaurant he owned, K-Paul's Louisiana Kitchen.
John Dominis/The LIFE Images Collection/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/10/07/entertainment/billy-joe-royal-obit-feat/index.html" target="_blank">Billy Joe Royal</a>, a pop and country star best known for the 1965 hit "Down in the Boondocks, died October 6 at the age of 73.
Billy Joe Royal, a pop and country star best known for the 1965 hit "Down in the Boondocks, died October 6 at the age of 73.
Tom Hill/WireImage/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/10/06/us/activist-grace-lee-boggs-dies/index.html" target="_blank">Grace Lee Boggs</a>, a writer, activist and feminist, "died peacefully in her sleep" at her home in Detroit, the Boggs Center website said October 6. She was 100.
Grace Lee Boggs, a writer, activist and feminist, "died peacefully in her sleep" at her home in Detroit, the Boggs Center website said October 6. She was 100.
Amanda Edwards/WireImage/getty images
<a href="http://money.cnn.com/2015/09/28/media/erik-roner-dead/index.html" target="_blank">Erik Roner</a>, an extreme athlete who had been featured on MTV and Outside Television, died in a parachuting accident on September 28. He was 39.
Erik Roner, an extreme athlete who had been featured on MTV and Outside Television, died in a parachuting accident on September 28. He was 39.
Bryn Lennon/Getty Images Europe/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/09/28/entertainment/catherine-coulson-twin-peaks-obit-feat/index.html">Catherine Coulson </a>was best known to "Twin Peaks" fans as the "Log Lady" from the surreal cult TV series. She died September 28 at the age of 71.
Catherine Coulson was best known to "Twin Peaks" fans as the "Log Lady" from the surreal cult TV series. She died September 28 at the age of 71.
ABC Photo Archives/Getty Images
New York Yankees legend <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/09/23/us/yogi-berra-death/index.html">Yogi Berra</a>, who helped the team win 10 World Series titles, died September 22, the Yogi Berra Museum said. He was 90.
New York Yankees legend Yogi Berra, who helped the team win 10 World Series titles, died September 22, the Yogi Berra Museum said. He was 90.
Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/09/21/entertainment/jack-larson-obit-jimmy-olsen-superman-feat/" target="_blank">Jack Larson</a>, best known for his role as reporter Jimmy Olsen on the first "Superman" TV show, died September 20 at his home in Brentwood, California. He was 87.
Jack Larson, best known for his role as reporter Jimmy Olsen on the first "Superman" TV show, died September 20 at his home in Brentwood, California. He was 87.
ABC/Getty Images
Best-selling author <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/09/19/entertainment/jackie-collins-obit/" target="_blank">Jackie Collins</a> died of breast cancer on September 19, according to her publicist Melody Korenbrot. She was 77.
Best-selling author Jackie Collins died of breast cancer on September 19, according to her publicist Melody Korenbrot. She was 77.
Michael Ward/Hulton Archive/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/09/14/entertainment/gary-richrath-reo-speedwagon-dies-feat/" target="_blank">Gary Richrath</a>, the longtime guitarist for REO Speedwagon, died September 13, according to band member Kevin Cronin. He was 65.
Gary Richrath, the longtime guitarist for REO Speedwagon, died September 13, according to band member Kevin Cronin. He was 65.
Larry Hulst/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
Three-time NBA MVP <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/09/13/us/moses-malone-dead/" target="_blank">Moses Malone</a> died on September 13 at the age of 60. Malone was the first player in NBA history to be drafted out of high school. He played for 21 seasons and led the Philadelphia 76ers to the 1983 NBA title.
Three-time NBA MVP Moses Malone died on September 13 at the age of 60. Malone was the first player in NBA history to be drafted out of high school. He played for 21 seasons and led the Philadelphia 76ers to the 1983 NBA title.
Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE/Getty Images
"Iron Chef" alum and restaurateur <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/09/12/living/kerry-simon-iron-chef-feat/index.html" target="_blank">Kerry Simon</a>, the quintessential celebrity chef who opened restaurants around the world, died September 11 at age 60, multiple sources confirmed.
"Iron Chef" alum and restaurateur Kerry Simon, the quintessential celebrity chef who opened restaurants around the world, died September 11 at age 60, multiple sources confirmed.
Ethan Miller/Getty Images North America/Getty Images for Vegas Uncork'd
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/09/12/entertainment/dickie-moore-child-star-dies/index.html" target="_blank">Dickie Moore</a>, a child star who appeared in the "Our Gang" shorts and who later gave Shirley Temple one of her first on-screen kisses, died September 7. He was 89.
Dickie Moore, a child star who appeared in the "Our Gang" shorts and who later gave Shirley Temple one of her first on-screen kisses, died September 7. He was 89.
General Photographic Agency/Hulton Archive/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/09/07/entertainment/martin-milner-actor-obit-feat/index.html" target="_blank">Martin Milner</a>, who starred in the hit '60s and '70s TV shows "Adam 12" and "Route 66," died September 6, according to Los Angeles Police Chief Charlie Beck. He was 83.
Martin Milner, who starred in the hit '60s and '70s TV shows "Adam 12" and "Route 66," died September 6, according to Los Angeles Police Chief Charlie Beck. He was 83.
Michael Ochs Archive/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/09/02/entertainment/dean-jones-dies-disney-feat/index.html" target="_blank">Dean Jones</a>, the star of such Disney films as "That Darn Cat!" and "The Love Bug," died on September 1. He was 84.
Dean Jones, the star of such Disney films as "That Darn Cat!" and "The Love Bug," died on September 1. He was 84.
Walt Disney Studios
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/09/07/entertainment/brad-anderson-marmaduke-cartoonist-dies-feat/index.html" target="_blank">Brad Anderson</a>, who created the popular comic strip "Marmaduke," died August 30, according to his syndicate, Universal Uclick. He was 91.
Brad Anderson, who created the popular comic strip "Marmaduke," died August 30, according to his syndicate, Universal Uclick. He was 91.
From Universal Uclick
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/08/30/entertainment/wes-craven-horror-movie-director-death/index.html" target="_blank">Wes Craven</a>, who directed classic horror films such as "A Nightmare on Elm Street" and "Scream," died August 30. Craven had been battling brain cancer, according to The Hollywood Reporter. He was 76.
Wes Craven, who directed classic horror films such as "A Nightmare on Elm Street" and "Scream," died August 30. Craven had been battling brain cancer, according to The Hollywood Reporter. He was 76.
Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images
Acclaimed author and neurologist <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/08/30/us/neurologist-oliver-sacks-dies/index.html" target="_blank">Oliver Sacks</a>, who wrote about his battle with cancer, died August 30, his longtime collaborator, Kate Edgar, confirmed. He was 82.
Acclaimed author and neurologist Oliver Sacks, who wrote about his battle with cancer, died August 30, his longtime collaborator, Kate Edgar, confirmed. He was 82.
Chris McGrath/Getty Images
Actor<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/08/29/entertainment/les-miserables-kyle-jean-baptiste-dead-feat/index.html" target="_blank"> Kyle Jean-Baptiste</a>, who made history as the first African-American to play the lead role in a Broadway production of "Les Miserables," died August 28 in New York. He was 21. Marc Thibodeau, a spokesman for the production, said Jean-Baptiste fell from a fire escape.
Actor Kyle Jean-Baptiste, who made history as the first African-American to play the lead role in a Broadway production of "Les Miserables," died August 28 in New York. He was 21. Marc Thibodeau, a spokesman for the production, said Jean-Baptiste fell from a fire escape.
From Les Misérables Broadway
Longtime NBA center<a href="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2556403-darryl-dawkins-basketball-hall-of-famer-dies-at-age-58?utm_source=cnn.com&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=editorial" target="_blank" target="_blank"> Darryl Dawkins</a>, perhaps best known for his emphatic slam dunks, died August 27 at the age of 58.
Longtime NBA center Darryl Dawkins, perhaps best known for his emphatic slam dunks, died August 27 at the age of 58.
Ron Koch/NBAE/Getty Images
Civil rights matriarch <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/08/26/us/civil-rights-matriarch-robinson-dies/index.html">Amelia Boynton Robinson</a>, second from right, died on August 26. She suffered a stroke and had been hospitalized in Montgomery, Alabama. She was in her 100s.
Civil rights matriarch Amelia Boynton Robinson, second from right, died on August 26. She suffered a stroke and had been hospitalized in Montgomery, Alabama. She was in her 100s.
Francis Miller/The LIFE Picture Collection/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/08/25/us/dr-james-red-duke-obituary/index.html">Dr. James "Red" Duke Jr.</a>, the Texas surgeon who educated television viewers about health care, helped pioneer Life Flight and was on duty at Parkland Hospital after President John F. Kennedy was assassinated, died August 25, at the age of 86.
Dr. James "Red" Duke Jr., the Texas surgeon who educated television viewers about health care, helped pioneer Life Flight and was on duty at Parkland Hospital after President John F. Kennedy was assassinated, died August 25, at the age of 86.
From UTHealth
IndyCar racer <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/08/24/us/indycar-justin-wilson-crash/index.html" target="_blank">Justin Wilson </a>died August 24 after being injured in a crash during a race in Pennsylvania. He was 37.
IndyCar racer Justin Wilson died August 24 after being injured in a crash during a race in Pennsylvania. He was 37.
Jeff Zelevansky/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/08/19/entertainment/yvonne-craig-batgirl-death/index.html">Actress Yvonne Craig</a>, who played Batgirl in the "Batman" TV series, died August 17 at age 78.
Actress Yvonne Craig, who played Batgirl in the "Batman" TV series, died August 17 at age 78.
warner bros. tv/20th century fox/reverie productions
The country's oldest known living veteran, <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/08/18/politics/veteran-dies-month-after-meeting-obama/index.html" target="_blank">Emma Didlake</a>, died August 16, just one month after being honored by President Barack Obama in Washington. Didlake was 110 years old.
The country's oldest known living veteran, Emma Didlake, died August 16, just one month after being honored by President Barack Obama in Washington. Didlake was 110 years old.
Olivier Douliery-Pool/Getty Images
Lifelong civil rights leader and former NAACP chairman <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/08/16/us/naacp-julian-bond-dead/index.html" target="_blank">Julian Bond</a> died on August 15, according to the Southern Poverty Law Center. He was 75.
Lifelong civil rights leader and former NAACP chairman Julian Bond died on August 15, according to the Southern Poverty Law Center. He was 75.
Paul Morigi/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/08/16/entertainment/bob-johnston-producer-obit-rs-feat/index.html" target="_blank">Bob Johnston</a>, a staff producer at Columbia Records who worked on legendary LPs like Bob Dylan's "Blonde on Blonde," Johnny Cash's "At Folsom Prison" and Simon & Garfunkel's "Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme," passed away August 14 at a Nashville hospice. He was 83.
Bob Johnston, a staff producer at Columbia Records who worked on legendary LPs like Bob Dylan's "Blonde on Blonde," Johnny Cash's "At Folsom Prison" and Simon & Garfunkel's "Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme," passed away August 14 at a Nashville hospice. He was 83.
Ilpo Musto/Ilpo Musto/REX Shutterstock
Former NFL star and longtime sportscaster <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/08/09/us/frank-gifford-dies/index.html" target="_blank">Frank Gifford</a> died August 9 at his Connecticut home, his family said. He was 84.
Former NFL star and longtime sportscaster Frank Gifford died August 9 at his Connecticut home, his family said. He was 84.
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Rapper <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/08/09/entertainment/rapper-sean-price-dies-feat/index.html" target="_blank">Sean Price</a>, half of the group Heltah Skeltah and a member of Boot Camp Clik, died August 8, record label Duck Down Music confirmed. He was 43. The cause of his death is not currently known, a statement said.
Rapper Sean Price, half of the group Heltah Skeltah and a member of Boot Camp Clik, died August 8, record label Duck Down Music confirmed. He was 43. The cause of his death is not currently known, a statement said.
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<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/08/07/us/lpga-founder-louise-suggs-dies-at-91/index.html" target="_blank">Louise Suggs,</a> one of the 13 founders of the Ladies Professional Golf Association, died at the age of 91, the LPGA announced on August 7.
Louise Suggs, one of the 13 founders of the Ladies Professional Golf Association, died at the age of 91, the LPGA announced on August 7.
AP
British actor <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/08/07/entertainment/george-cole-obit-thr-feat/index.html" target="_blank">George Cole</a>, who was best known in the United Kingdom for his role in the TV show "Minder," died August 5 at age 90.
British actor George Cole, who was best known in the United Kingdom for his role in the TV show "Minder," died August 5 at age 90.
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Fashion designer <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/08/04/fashion/new-york-arnold-scaasi-death/" target="_blank">Arnold Scaasi</a>, whose flamboyant creations adorned first ladies, movie stars and socialites, died August 4 of cardiac arrest. He was 85.
Fashion designer Arnold Scaasi, whose flamboyant creations adorned first ladies, movie stars and socialites, died August 4 of cardiac arrest. He was 85.
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Former professional wrestler and actor <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/07/31/us/wrestler-roddy-piper-dies/index.html" target="_blank">Roddy Piper</a> died on July 31, his agent Jay Schachter told CNN. Piper was 61.
Former professional wrestler and actor Roddy Piper died on July 31, his agent Jay Schachter told CNN. Piper was 61.
Courtesy WWE
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/07/31/entertainment/lynn-anderson-singer-rose-garden-dies-feat/index.html" target="_blank">Lynn Anderson</a>, whose version of the song "(I Never Promised You A) Rose Garden" was one of the biggest country hits of the 1970s, died on July 30. She was 67.
Lynn Anderson, whose version of the song "(I Never Promised You A) Rose Garden" was one of the biggest country hits of the 1970s, died on July 30. She was 67.
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<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/07/27/living/ann-rule-true-crime-author-dies-feat/" target="_blank">Ann Rule</a>, the author of such true-crime books as "The Stranger Beside Me" and "Every Breath You Take," died on July 26. She was 83.
Ann Rule, the author of such true-crime books as "The Stranger Beside Me" and "Every Breath You Take," died on July 26. She was 83.
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<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/07/26/us/bobbi-kristina-brown-dies/" target="_blank">Bobbi Kristina Brown</a>, the daughter of late superstar Whitney Houston and singer Bobby Brown, died July 26, a representative of the Houston family said in a statement. She was 22. Brown had been treated in a hospital and then a hospice facility after she was found unresponsive and not breathing in the bathtub at her Roswell, Georgia, home on January 31 -- nearly three years to the day after her mother accidentally drowned in a bathtub.
Bobbi Kristina Brown, the daughter of late superstar Whitney Houston and singer Bobby Brown, died July 26, a representative of the Houston family said in a statement. She was 22. Brown had been treated in a hospital and then a hospice facility after she was found unresponsive and not breathing in the bathtub at her Roswell, Georgia, home on January 31 -- nearly three years to the day after her mother accidentally drowned in a bathtub.
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<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/07/24/entertainment/daron-norwood-obit-feat/" target="_blank">Daron Norwood</a>, who scored top-30 country singles in the mid-'90s with "If It Wasn't for Her, I Wouldn't Have You" and "Cowboys Don't Cry," was found dead in his Texas apartment on July 22. He was 49. Police said there were no signs of foul play.
Daron Norwood, who scored top-30 country singles in the mid-'90s with "If It Wasn't for Her, I Wouldn't Have You" and "Cowboys Don't Cry," was found dead in his Texas apartment on July 22. He was 49. Police said there were no signs of foul play.
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Novelist <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/07/22/opinions/parini-doctorow-appreciation/index.html">E.L. Doctorow, </a>whose books were almost always about the past but often stirred comparisons to the present, died on July 21. He was 84.
Novelist E.L. Doctorow, whose books were almost always about the past but often stirred comparisons to the present, died on July 21. He was 84.
Mary Altaffer/ AP Photo
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/07/21/entertainment/obit-theodore-bikel-thr-feat/index.html" target="_blank">Theodore Bikel</a>, a prolific performer and political activist who was in the original Broadway "Sound of Music," died on July 21. He was 91.
Theodore Bikel, a prolific performer and political activist who was in the original Broadway "Sound of Music," died on July 21. He was 91.
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Actor <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/07/20/entertainment/george-coe-obit-feat/index.html" target="_blank">George Coe</a>, an original member of "Saturday Night Live's" Not Ready for Prime Time Players who also appeared in such films as "Kramer vs. Kramer" and "The Stepford Wives," died on July 18. He was 86.
Actor George Coe, an original member of "Saturday Night Live's" Not Ready for Prime Time Players who also appeared in such films as "Kramer vs. Kramer" and "The Stepford Wives," died on July 18. He was 86.
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<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/07/19/entertainment/alex-rocco-godfather-actor-dies-thr-feat/" target="_blank">Alex Rocco</a>, the veteran tough-guy character actor with the gravelly voice best known for playing mobster and Las Vegas casino owner Moe Greene in "The Godfather," died on July 18. He was 79.
Alex Rocco, the veteran tough-guy character actor with the gravelly voice best known for playing mobster and Las Vegas casino owner Moe Greene in "The Godfather," died on July 18. He was 79.
Everett Collection
Mexican singer <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/07/14/entertainment/obit-joan-sebastian-mexican-singer/index.html" target="_blank">Joan Sebastian</a>, a beloved performer on the airwaves and in Mexican rodeos, died July 13 at the age of 64, son Jose Manuel Figueroa told CNN en Español.
Mexican singer Joan Sebastian, a beloved performer on the airwaves and in Mexican rodeos, died July 13 at the age of 64, son Jose Manuel Figueroa told CNN en Español.
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<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/07/11/entertainment/roger-rees-actor-dies/index.html" target="_blank">Roger Rees</a>, a Tony-winning theater star also widely known for his TV roles on "Cheers" and "The West Wing," died July 10 at the age of 71.
Roger Rees, a Tony-winning theater star also widely known for his TV roles on "Cheers" and "The West Wing," died July 10 at the age of 71.
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Egyptian actor <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/07/10/entertainment/omar-sharif-dies/" target="_blank">Omar Sharif</a>, who co-starred with Peter O'Toole in "Lawrence of Arabia," died Friday, July 10, after suffering a heart attack in Cairo, according to his agent, Steve Kenis. Sharif, who also starred in "Doctor Zhivago" and "Funny Girl," was 83.
Egyptian actor Omar Sharif, who co-starred with Peter O'Toole in "Lawrence of Arabia," died Friday, July 10, after suffering a heart attack in Cairo, according to his agent, Steve Kenis. Sharif, who also starred in "Doctor Zhivago" and "Funny Girl," was 83.
Mary Evans/COLUMBIA PICTURES/Ronald Grant/Everett Collection
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/07/09/entertainment/feat-obit-irwin-keyes-dead/index.html">Irwin Keyes</a>, a character actor from films such as "Intolerable Cruelty" and "Night of 1,000 Corpses," died July 8. He was 63.
Irwin Keyes, a character actor from films such as "Intolerable Cruelty" and "Night of 1,000 Corpses," died July 8. He was 63.
Frazer Harrison/Getty Images for Automomous Films
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/07/06/entertainment/feat-obit-jerry-weintraub-dies/" target="_blank">Jerry Weintraub</a>, the high-powered Hollywood mogul whose career included promoting Elvis Presley concerts, producing the "Ocean's Eleven" movies and spinning golden tales, died July 6 of cardiac arrest, his publicist said. He was 77.
Jerry Weintraub, the high-powered Hollywood mogul whose career included promoting Elvis Presley concerts, producing the "Ocean's Eleven" movies and spinning golden tales, died July 6 of cardiac arrest, his publicist said. He was 77.
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<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/07/06/living/actress-amanda-peterson-dead/index.html" target="_blank">Amanda Peterson</a>, best known for her role opposite Patrick Dempsey in the 1987 movie "Can't Buy Me Love," died July 3, her mother said. Peterson, seen here in 1988, was 43. The family was awaiting autopsy results to determine the official cause of death.
Amanda Peterson, best known for her role opposite Patrick Dempsey in the 1987 movie "Can't Buy Me Love," died July 3, her mother said. Peterson, seen here in 1988, was 43. The family was awaiting autopsy results to determine the official cause of death.
Ron Galella, Ltd./WireImage/getty images
Actress <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/07/04/entertainment/obituary-diana-douglas-webster-dies-feat/" target="_blank">Diana Douglas Webster</a>, the first wife of Kirk Douglas and mother of Michael Douglas, died July 3 at age 92.
Actress Diana Douglas Webster, the first wife of Kirk Douglas and mother of Michael Douglas, died July 3 at age 92.
ABC/Getty
Hall of Fame football player <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2513425-charlie-sanders-hall-of-fame-tight-end-dies-at-age-68" target="_blank" target="_blank">Charlie Sanders</a> died on July 2, eight months after being diagnosed with cancer. He was 68. Sanders spent all 10 of his NFL seasons with the Detroit Lions, emerging as one of the best tight ends of his era.
Hall of Fame football player Charlie Sanders died on July 2, eight months after being diagnosed with cancer. He was 68. Sanders spent all 10 of his NFL seasons with the Detroit Lions, emerging as one of the best tight ends of his era.
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Bassist <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/06/28/entertainment/chris-squire-yes-dies-feat/index.html" target="_blank">Chris Squire</a>, founding member of British rock band Yes, died June 27 in Phoenix, his bandmates confirmed. Squire, 67, announced in May that he was sitting out the band's upcoming tour dates to undergo treatment for leukemia.
Bassist Chris Squire, founding member of British rock band Yes, died June 27 in Phoenix, his bandmates confirmed. Squire, 67, announced in May that he was sitting out the band's upcoming tour dates to undergo treatment for leukemia.
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<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/06/25/entertainment/feat-patrick-macnee-dies-obit/index.html" target="_blank">Patrick Macnee</a>, the British actor who played bowler-hatted secret agent John Steed on the 1960s spy series "The Avengers," died on June 25. He was 93.
Patrick Macnee, the British actor who played bowler-hatted secret agent John Steed on the 1960s spy series "The Avengers," died on June 25. He was 93.
Getty Images/Hulton Archive
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/06/23/entertainment/feat-dick-van-patten-dies-obit/index.html" target="_blank">Dick Van Patten</a>, the seemingly ubiquitous actor perhaps best known for his starring role as the father on the 1970s series "Eight Is Enough," died on June 23. He was 86.
Dick Van Patten, the seemingly ubiquitous actor perhaps best known for his starring role as the father on the 1970s series "Eight Is Enough," died on June 23. He was 86.
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Academy Award-winning composer <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/06/22/living/feat-james-horner-titantic-plane-crash/index.html">James Horner</a>, perhaps best known for scoring "Titanic," died June 22 after the small plane he was piloting crashed in central California. He was 61.
Academy Award-winning composer James Horner, perhaps best known for scoring "Titanic," died June 22 after the small plane he was piloting crashed in central California. He was 61.
Kevin Winter
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/06/11/entertainment/dusty-rhodes-obit/index.html" target="_blank">Dusty Rhodes</a> -- the rotund, easy-bleeding, easy-talking professional wrestler who billed himself as "The American Dream" -- died June 11, the WWE said on its website. He was 69.
Dusty Rhodes -- the rotund, easy-bleeding, easy-talking professional wrestler who billed himself as "The American Dream" -- died June 11, the WWE said on its website. He was 69.
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<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/06/11/entertainment/feat-ornette-coleman-dead/index.html">Ornette Coleman</a>, the adventurous and influential saxophonist whose experimental sounds helped create what he called "free jazz," died on June 11. He was 85.
Ornette Coleman, the adventurous and influential saxophonist whose experimental sounds helped create what he called "free jazz," died on June 11. He was 85.
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Indie rapper <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/06/09/entertainment/pumpkinhead-dead-feat/index.html" target="_blank">Pumpkinhead</a> died June 9, according to friends. He was 39. The cause of death was not made public.
Indie rapper Pumpkinhead died June 9, according to friends. He was 39. The cause of death was not made public.
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<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/06/11/entertainment/christopher-lee-dies/" target="_blank">Christopher Lee</a>, the British actor who mastered horror and Dracula roles before his turns as a Bond villain and the wizard Saruman in the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy, died June 7, a London borough spokesman said. He was 93.
Christopher Lee, the British actor who mastered horror and Dracula roles before his turns as a Bond villain and the wizard Saruman in the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy, died June 7, a London borough spokesman said. He was 93.
Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images/FILE
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/06/09/us/feat-vincent-bugliosi-dead/index.html" target="_blank">Vincent Bugliosi</a>, the Los Angeles prosecutor who became a best-selling author with "Helter Skelter" -- his true-crime account of the Manson family killings -- died June 6, his wife said. He was 80.
Vincent Bugliosi, the Los Angeles prosecutor who became a best-selling author with "Helter Skelter" -- his true-crime account of the Manson family killings -- died June 6, his wife said. He was 80.
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Singer <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/06/07/entertainment/ronnie-gilbert-weavers-feat/index.html" target="_blank">Ronnie Gilbert</a>, a member of the influential 1950s folk group the Weavers, died June 6. She was 88.
Singer Ronnie Gilbert, a member of the influential 1950s folk group the Weavers, died June 6. She was 88.
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<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/05/30/politics/obit-vice-president-son-beau-biden/index.html" target="_blank">Joseph "Beau" Biden III</a>, an Iraq War veteran who served as the attorney general of Delaware and was a son of Vice President Joe Biden, died May 30 after battling brain cancer. He was 46.
Joseph "Beau" Biden III, an Iraq War veteran who served as the attorney general of Delaware and was a son of Vice President Joe Biden, died May 30 after battling brain cancer. He was 46.
STAN HONDA/AFP/GettyImages
Actress <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/05/31/entertainment/betsy-palmer-dies/index.html" target="_blank">Betsy Palmer</a> died May 29 of natural causes at a hospice care center near her home in Danbury, Connecticut, according to her manager Brad Lemack. She was 88.
Actress Betsy Palmer died May 29 of natural causes at a hospice care center near her home in Danbury, Connecticut, according to her manager Brad Lemack. She was 88.
CBS/Getty Imges
Comedian and actor <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/05/28/entertainment/reynaldo-rey-dies/index.html" target="_blank">Reynaldo Rey</a> died on May 28 of complications from a stroke, according to his manager. He was 75.
Comedian and actor Reynaldo Rey died on May 28 of complications from a stroke, according to his manager. He was 75.
reynaldorey.com
<a href="http://money.cnn.com/2015/05/26/news/mary-ellen-mark/">Mary Ellen Mark</a>, one of the premier documentary photographers of her generation, died May 25. She was 75. Mark's photography spanned decades, and her subjects included celebrities, world leaders and people on the fringe of society.
Mary Ellen Mark, one of the premier documentary photographers of her generation, died May 25. She was 75. Mark's photography spanned decades, and her subjects included celebrities, world leaders and people on the fringe of society.
Ralph Gibson
Comedy great <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/05/24/entertainment/feat-anne-meara-dies/index.html" target="_blank">Anne Meara</a>, wife of Jerry Stiller and mother of Ben Stiller, died on May 23, according to a statement from her family. She was 85.
Comedy great Anne Meara, wife of Jerry Stiller and mother of Ben Stiller, died on May 23, according to a statement from her family. She was 85.
Everett Collection
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/05/24/us/feat-john-nash-wife-killed/index.html" target="_blank">John Forbes Nash Jr.</a>, the mathematician whose life inspired the film "A Beautiful Mind," died in a car crash with his wife, Alicia, on May 23. He was 86.
John Forbes Nash Jr., the mathematician whose life inspired the film "A Beautiful Mind," died in a car crash with his wife, Alicia, on May 23. He was 86.
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<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/05/22/entertainment/feat-obit-louis-johnson-brothers-johnson-rs/index.html">Louis Johnson</a>, who played with the Brothers Johnson and was an in-demand bassist who played on such hits as Michael Jackson's "Billie Jean" and "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough," died on May 21. He was 60.
Louis Johnson, who played with the Brothers Johnson and was an in-demand bassist who played on such hits as Michael Jackson's "Billie Jean" and "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough," died on May 21. He was 60.
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<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/06/08/entertainment/feat-mary-ellen-trainor-dead-thr/index.html" target="_blank">Mary Ellen Trainor</a>, whose films included "The Goonies," "Forrest Gump," "Scrooged" and the various "Lethal Weapon" films, died on May 20. She was 62.
Mary Ellen Trainor, whose films included "The Goonies," "Forrest Gump," "Scrooged" and the various "Lethal Weapon" films, died on May 20. She was 62.
ABC via Getty Images
The body of extreme-sports legend <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/05/18/us/yosemite-base-jumpers-dean-potter-graham-hunt-deaths/index.html" target="_blank">Dean Potter</a> was found in Yosemite National Park during a helicopter search May 17, park spokesman Scott Gediman said. Friends had reported Potter and another athlete, Graham Hunt, missing, and it is believed that the pair BASE jumped from Taft Point, a scenic overhang in the park. Potter was 43, and Hunt was 29.
The body of extreme-sports legend Dean Potter was found in Yosemite National Park during a helicopter search May 17, park spokesman Scott Gediman said. Friends had reported Potter and another athlete, Graham Hunt, missing, and it is believed that the pair BASE jumped from Taft Point, a scenic overhang in the park. Potter was 43, and Hunt was 29.
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Hip-hop artist Lionel Pickens, known by the stage name of <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/05/17/entertainment/chinx-rapper-death-feat/index.html" target="_blank">Chinx</a>, died May 17 after being shot, according to the New York Police Department. He was 31.
Hip-hop artist Lionel Pickens, known by the stage name of Chinx, died May 17 after being shot, according to the New York Police Department. He was 31.
Brad Barket/Getty Images
Blues legend <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/05/15/entertainment/bb-king-dead/index.html">B.B. King</a>, who helped bring blues from the margins to the mainstream, died May 14 in Las Vegas, according to his daughter Patty King. Two weeks earlier, it was announced that King was in home hospice care after suffering from dehydration. He was 89.
Blues legend B.B. King, who helped bring blues from the margins to the mainstream, died May 14 in Las Vegas, according to his daughter Patty King. Two weeks earlier, it was announced that King was in home hospice care after suffering from dehydration. He was 89.
FABRICE COFFRINI/AFP/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/05/11/entertainment/feat-elizabeth-wilson-obit/" target="_blank">Elizabeth Wilson</a>, a longtime character actress who played Dustin Hoffman's mother, Mrs. Braddock, in "The Graduate," died May 9. She was 94.
Elizabeth Wilson, a longtime character actress who played Dustin Hoffman's mother, Mrs. Braddock, in "The Graduate," died May 9. She was 94.
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<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/05/06/entertainment/feat-obit-errol-brown-hot-chocolate/index.html">Errol Brown</a>, the Hot Chocolate lead singer whose energetic, powerful vocals topped the hits "You Sexy Thing" and "Every 1's a Winner," died May 6, his manager said. Brown was 71.
Errol Brown, the Hot Chocolate lead singer whose energetic, powerful vocals topped the hits "You Sexy Thing" and "Every 1's a Winner," died May 6, his manager said. Brown was 71.
Sydney O'Meara/Evening Standard/Getty Images
Former House Speaker <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/05/06/politics/house-speaker-jim-wright-dies/index.html" target="_blank">Jim Wright</a> died May 6 at a nursing home in Fort Worth, Texas. The Texas Democrat's congressional career spanned more than three decades. He was 92.
Former House Speaker Jim Wright died May 6 at a nursing home in Fort Worth, Texas. The Texas Democrat's congressional career spanned more than three decades. He was 92.
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<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/05/05/entertainment/feat-wedding-singer-rapping-granny-dead/index.html">Ellen Albertini Dow</a>, perhaps best known as the rapping granny in the 1998 movie "The Wedding Singer," died May 5 at the age of 101. She also appeared in "Wedding Crashers" and dozens of TV shows.
Ellen Albertini Dow, perhaps best known as the rapping granny in the 1998 movie "The Wedding Singer," died May 5 at the age of 101. She also appeared in "Wedding Crashers" and dozens of TV shows.
Hulton Archive/Getty Images
Russian ballerina <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/05/03/living/feat-russian-ballerina-maya-plisetskaya-dies/index.html">Maya Plisetskaya</a>, who was considered one of the greatest ballerinas of the 20th century, died on May 2. She was 89.
Russian ballerina Maya Plisetskaya, who was considered one of the greatest ballerinas of the 20th century, died on May 2. She was 89.
Efrem Lukatsky/AP
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/05/04/entertainment/feat-obit-grace-lee-whitney-star-trek/index.html">Grace Lee Whitney</a>, who played Yeoman Janice Rand in the original "Star Trek" series and a handful of movies based on the series, died May 1 at her home in Coarsegold, California. She was 85.
Grace Lee Whitney, who played Yeoman Janice Rand in the original "Star Trek" series and a handful of movies based on the series, died May 1 at her home in Coarsegold, California. She was 85.
CBS via Getty Images
Singer <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/05/01/entertainment/ben-e-king-singer-obit-feat/index.html" target="_blank">Ben E. King</a>, whose classic hit "Stand by Me" became an enduring testament of love and devotion for generations of listeners, died on April 30. He was 76.
Singer Ben E. King, whose classic hit "Stand by Me" became an enduring testament of love and devotion for generations of listeners, died on April 30. He was 76.
Gilles Petard/Redferns/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/04/29/entertainment/kingsmen-jack-ely-obit-feat/index.html" target="_blank">Jack Ely</a>, co-founder of the early '60s band The Kingsmen and best known for his 1963 rendition of the party classic "Louie, Louie," died April 28 after a long battle with an illness. He was 71.
Jack Ely, co-founder of the early '60s band The Kingsmen and best known for his 1963 rendition of the party classic "Louie, Louie," died April 28 after a long battle with an illness. He was 71.
Don Ryan/FILE/AP
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/04/28/entertainment/feat-suzanne-crough-death/index.html" target="_blank">Suzanne Crough</a>, who played Tracy, the youngest daughter on ABC's "The Partridge Family," died unexpectedly in her Nevada home on April 27. She was 52.
Suzanne Crough, who played Tracy, the youngest daughter on ABC's "The Partridge Family," died unexpectedly in her Nevada home on April 27. She was 52.
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<a href="http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/andrew-lesnie-dead-lord-rings-791929" target="_blank" target="_blank">Andrew Lesnie</a>, the Oscar-winning cinematographer who spent more than a decade collaborating with Peter Jackson on the "Lord of the Rings" and "Hobbit" films, died April 27. He was 59.
Andrew Lesnie, the Oscar-winning cinematographer who spent more than a decade collaborating with Peter Jackson on the "Lord of the Rings" and "Hobbit" films, died April 27. He was 59.
Frank Micelotta/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/04/23/entertainment/everybody-loves-raymond-sawyer-sweeten-suicide/index.html">Sawyer Sweeten</a>, left, grew up before millions as a child star on the family sitcom "Everybody Loves Raymond." Early on April 23, he committed suicide, his sister Madylin Sweeten said in a statement. He was 19. Sawyer was a year and a half old when he started on "Raymond," playing alongside his real-life twin brother, Sullivan, at right.
Sawyer Sweeten, left, grew up before millions as a child star on the family sitcom "Everybody Loves Raymond." Early on April 23, he committed suicide, his sister Madylin Sweeten said in a statement. He was 19. Sawyer was a year and a half old when he started on "Raymond," playing alongside his real-life twin brother, Sullivan, at right.
Amanda Edwards/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/04/23/entertainment/sharon-lois-bram-lilienstein-dead-feat/index.html">Lois Lilienstein</a>, one of the stars of CBC and Nickelodeon's "The Elephant Show," died on April 22. She was 78.
Lois Lilienstein, one of the stars of CBC and Nickelodeon's "The Elephant Show," died on April 22. She was 78.
Ron Bull/Toronto Star/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/04/23/living/rosie-the-riveter-dies/index.html" target="_blank">Mary Doyle Keefe</a>, the model for Norman Rockwell's "Rosie the Riveter," died at her home in Simsbury, Connecticut, on April 21. She was 92.
Mary Doyle Keefe, the model for Norman Rockwell's "Rosie the Riveter," died at her home in Simsbury, Connecticut, on April 21. She was 92.
Jim Cole/AP
R&B singer <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/04/18/entertainment/feat-singer-johnny-kemp-dies/index.html" target="_blank">Johnny Kemp</a>, best known for the 1988 party anthem "Just Got Paid," died April 16 in Jamaica. He is believed to have drowned at a beach in Montego Bay, the Jamaica Constabulatory Force said in a press release.
R&B singer Johnny Kemp, best known for the 1988 party anthem "Just Got Paid," died April 16 in Jamaica. He is believed to have drowned at a beach in Montego Bay, the Jamaica Constabulatory Force said in a press release.
Shahar Azran/WireImag/Getty Images
Actor <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/04/18/entertainment/feat-actor-jonathan-crombie-anne-green-gables-dies/index.html" target="_blank">Jonathan Crombie</a>, who co-starred in the "Anne of Green Gables" TV movies, died April 15 at age 48. Crombie died from complications of a brain hemorrhage, "Anne of Green Gables" producer Kevin Sullivan said.
Actor Jonathan Crombie, who co-starred in the "Anne of Green Gables" TV movies, died April 15 at age 48. Crombie died from complications of a brain hemorrhage, "Anne of Green Gables" producer Kevin Sullivan said.
Dick Loek/Toronto Star via Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/04/14/entertainment/percy-sledge-dies-feat/index.html" target="_blank">Percy Sledge</a>, known for the single "When a Man Loves a Woman," died April 14 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, according to the East Baton Rouge Parish Coroner's Office. He was 73.
Percy Sledge, known for the single "When a Man Loves a Woman," died April 14 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, according to the East Baton Rouge Parish Coroner's Office. He was 73.
Gilles Petard/Redferns/getty images
Nobel literature laureate <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/04/13/living/gnter-grass-nobel-literature-author-death/index.html" target="_blank">Gunter Grass</a>, best known for his novel "The Tin Drum," has died, his publisher said April 13. He was 87.
Nobel literature laureate Gunter Grass, best known for his novel "The Tin Drum," has died, his publisher said April 13. He was 87.
Sebastian Willnow/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/04/09/entertainment/feat-obit-richard-dysart-thr/index.html" target="_blank">Richard Dysart</a>, the Emmy-winning actor who portrayed the cranky senior partner Leland McKenzie in the NBC drama "L.A. Law," has died at the age of 86, it was reported on April 9.
Richard Dysart, the Emmy-winning actor who portrayed the cranky senior partner Leland McKenzie in the NBC drama "L.A. Law," has died at the age of 86, it was reported on April 9.
Eike Schroter/NBC/NBCU Photo Bank/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/04/07/entertainment/feat-obit-stan-freberg-thr/index.html" target="_blank">Stan Freberg</a>, acclaimed satirist, died of natural causes at a Santa Monica, California, hospital, his son and daughter confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter on April 7. He was 88.
Stan Freberg, acclaimed satirist, died of natural causes at a Santa Monica, California, hospital, his son and daughter confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter on April 7. He was 88.
Bill Bridges/The LIFE Images Collection/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/04/19/entertainment/feat-good-times-ben-powers-dies/index.html">Ben Powers</a>, who played Thelma's husband Keith Anderson on the final season of the classic CBS sitcom "Good Times," died on April 6. He was 64.
Ben Powers, who played Thelma's husband Keith Anderson on the final season of the classic CBS sitcom "Good Times," died on April 6. He was 64.
NBCU Photo Bank/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/04/07/entertainment/james-best-obit-dukes-hazzard-feat/index.html">James Best</a>, the actor best known for his portrayal of bumbling Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane on TV's "The Dukes of Hazzard," died April 6 after a brief illness. He was 88.
James Best, the actor best known for his portrayal of bumbling Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane on TV's "The Dukes of Hazzard," died April 6 after a brief illness. He was 88.
CBS Photo Archive/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/04/04/entertainment/feat-lynyrd-skynyrd-drummer-dies/index.html" target="_blank">Robert Lewis Burns Jr.</a>, Lynyrd Skynyrd's original drummer, died in a car crash on April 3, according to the Georgia State Patrol. He was 64.
Robert Lewis Burns Jr., Lynyrd Skynyrd's original drummer, died in a car crash on April 3, according to the Georgia State Patrol. He was 64.
Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/04/02/us/robert-schuller-death/index.html" target="_blank">The Rev. Robert H. Schuller</a>, televangelist and founder of the Crystal Cathedral church in California, died on April 2, according to his family. He was 88 years old.
The Rev. Robert H. Schuller, televangelist and founder of the Crystal Cathedral church in California, died on April 2, according to his family. He was 88 years old.
Chris Carlson/AP
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/04/01/entertainment/cynthia-lennon-obit/index.html">Cynthia Lennon</a>, the first wife of John Lennon, died April 1, according to a post on the website of her son, Julian. She was 75.
Cynthia Lennon, the first wife of John Lennon, died April 1, according to a post on the website of her son, Julian. She was 75.
Paul Popper/Popperfoto/Getty Images
Singapore's founding father <a href="http://edition.cnn.com/2015/03/22/asia/singapore-lee-kuan-yew-obit/index.html">Lee Kuan Yew</a> died on March 23, according to a statement released by the Prime Minister's office. He was 91. Lee, credited for transforming the colonial trading post into a prosperous financial center, was admitted to a hospital in February with severe pneumonia.
Singapore's founding father Lee Kuan Yew died on March 23, according to a statement released by the Prime Minister's office. He was 91. Lee, credited for transforming the colonial trading post into a prosperous financial center, was admitted to a hospital in February with severe pneumonia.
AP Photo/Wong Maye-E, File
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/03/20/entertainment/aj-pero-twisted-sister-dead-feat/index.html" target="_blank">A.J. Pero</a>, a longtime drummer for the metal band Twisted Sister, died on March 20, according to the band's Facebook page and Twisted Sister frontman Dee Snider. Pero was 55.
A.J. Pero, a longtime drummer for the metal band Twisted Sister, died on March 20, according to the band's Facebook page and Twisted Sister frontman Dee Snider. Pero was 55.
Mark Weiss/Getty Images
For more than two decades, bassist <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/03/16/entertainment/toto-bassist-mike-porcaro-dead/index.html" target="_blank">Mike Porcaro</a> was a rock star with the band Toto, playing venues around the world. Porcaro died after a battle with Lou Gehrig's disease, or ALS, on March 15. He was 59.
For more than two decades, bassist Mike Porcaro was a rock star with the band Toto, playing venues around the world. Porcaro died after a battle with Lou Gehrig's disease, or ALS, on March 15. He was 59.
Oliver Berg/picture-alliance/dpa/AP Images
Best-selling British fantasy author <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/03/12/world/author-terry-pratchett-dies/index.html" target="_blank">Terry Pratchett</a> died at the age of 66, his website said March 12. Pratchett wrote more than 70 books, including those in his "Discworld" series. He had been diagnosed with a rare form of Alzheimer's disease in 2007.
Best-selling British fantasy author Terry Pratchett died at the age of 66, his website said March 12. Pratchett wrote more than 70 books, including those in his "Discworld" series. He had been diagnosed with a rare form of Alzheimer's disease in 2007.
Dan Kitwood/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/03/11/entertainment/still-alice-director-richard-glatzer-dies/index.html" target="_blank">Richard Glatzer</a>, director of the movie "Still Alice," died March 10 after battling ALS for four years, his publicist said. Glatzer was 63.
Richard Glatzer, director of the movie "Still Alice," died March 10 after battling ALS for four years, his publicist said. Glatzer was 63.
Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/03/10/entertainment/feat-windell-middlebrooks-miller-high-life-dies/index.html" target="_blank">Windell D. Middlebrooks</a>, the actor best known as the straight-talking Miller High Life delivery man, died March 9, his agent told CNN. His family also posted a statement on his Facebook page confirming the 36-year-old's death. No cause of death was provided. Middlebrooks also had recurring roles on "Body of Proof," "Scrubs" and "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia."
Windell D. Middlebrooks, the actor best known as the straight-talking Miller High Life delivery man, died March 9, his agent told CNN. His family also posted a statement on his Facebook page confirming the 36-year-old's death. No cause of death was provided. Middlebrooks also had recurring roles on "Body of Proof," "Scrubs" and "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia."
Michael Buckner/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/03/09/entertainment/feat-obit-sam-simon-simpsons-thr/index.html" target="_blank">Sam Simon</a>, the nine-time Emmy Award-winning writer and producer who helped develop "The Simpsons," made millions after leaving the show in 1993 and then donated his riches to charity, has died, his foundation announced on Facebook on March 9. He was 59.
Sam Simon, the nine-time Emmy Award-winning writer and producer who helped develop "The Simpsons," made millions after leaving the show in 1993 and then donated his riches to charity, has died, his foundation announced on Facebook on March 9. He was 59.
Araya Diaz/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/03/06/entertainment/feat-obit-albert-maysles-gimme-shelter-thr/">Albert Maysles</a>, who collaborated with his late brother David in a documentary film career that included the troubling 1970 concert documentary "Gimme Shelter," died March 5. He was 88.
Albert Maysles, who collaborated with his late brother David in a documentary film career that included the troubling 1970 concert documentary "Gimme Shelter," died March 5. He was 88.
Larry Busacca/Getty Images
Character actor <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/03/04/entertainment/feat-thr-seinfeld-actor-daniel-von-bargen-dies-at-64/index.html">Daniel von Bargen</a>, seen here in the 1995 film "Lord of Illusions," was better-known for playing George Costanza's inept boss Mr. Kruger on "Seinfeld" and a hard-nosed military commander on "Malcolm in the Middle." Von Bargen died March 1 at the age of 64.
Character actor Daniel von Bargen, seen here in the 1995 film "Lord of Illusions," was better-known for playing George Costanza's inept boss Mr. Kruger on "Seinfeld" and a hard-nosed military commander on "Malcolm in the Middle." Von Bargen died March 1 at the age of 64.
Seraphim Films/IMDB
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/27/entertainment/feat-obit-leonard-nimoy-spock/index.html" target="_blank">Leonard Nimoy</a>, whose portrayal of "Star Trek's" logic-driven, half-human science officer Spock made him an iconic figure to generations, died on February 27. He was 83.
Leonard Nimoy, whose portrayal of "Star Trek's" logic-driven, half-human science officer Spock made him an iconic figure to generations, died on February 27. He was 83.
cbs via getty images
Actor <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/23/entertainment/feat-american-horror-story-actor-dead/" target="_blank">Ben Woolf </a>died February 23 at the age of 34. The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed that he had been hit by a car's side mirror several days earlier in Hollywood.
Actor Ben Woolf died February 23 at the age of 34. The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed that he had been hit by a car's side mirror several days earlier in Hollywood.
Kevin Winter/Getty Images
"Parks and Recreation" executive producer <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/19/entertainment/harris-wittels-parks-and-recreation-death/" target="_blank">Harris Wittels</a> died of a possible overdose, police said February 19. He was 30.
"Parks and Recreation" executive producer Harris Wittels died of a possible overdose, police said February 19. He was 30.
Frazer Harrison/Getty Images
Mexican telenovela actress <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/17/living/feat-lorena-rojas-death/index.html" target="_blank">Lorena Rojas</a> died February 17 at her Miami home. The 44-year-old had been battling cancer since 2008.
Mexican telenovela actress Lorena Rojas died February 17 at her Miami home. The 44-year-old had been battling cancer since 2008.
Vallery Jean/FilmMagic/getty images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/16/entertainment/feat-lesley-gore-obit/index.html" target="_blank">Lesley Gore</a>, whose No. 1 hit "It's My Party" kicked off a successful singing career while she was still in high school, died February 16 at the age of 68. <a href="http://www.people.com/article/lesley-gore-singer-its-my-party-dies" target="_blank" target="_blank">According to People magazine</a>, the cause of death was cancer.
Lesley Gore, whose No. 1 hit "It's My Party" kicked off a successful singing career while she was still in high school, died February 16 at the age of 68. According to People magazine, the cause of death was cancer.
Hulton Archive/Getty Images
Former U.S. poet laureate and Pulitzer Prize winner <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/15/living/feat-philip-levine-dies/index.html" target="_blank">Philip Levine</a>, whose work reflected the voice and soul of 20th-century blue-collar America, died Saturday, February 14, at his home in Fresno, California. He was 87.
Former U.S. poet laureate and Pulitzer Prize winner Philip Levine, whose work reflected the voice and soul of 20th-century blue-collar America, died Saturday, February 14, at his home in Fresno, California. He was 87.
Gary Kazanjian/AP
Voice-over performer <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/13/entertainment/gary-owens-obit/index.html" target="_blank">Gary Owens</a> died Friday, February 13, at the age of 80. Owens, a former radio disc jockey, was known as the voice of Space Ghost, Batman and many other characters. He gained nationwide fame in the late 1960s as the straight-laced announcer on TV's frenetic "Rowan and Martin's Laugh-In."
Voice-over performer Gary Owens died Friday, February 13, at the age of 80. Owens, a former radio disc jockey, was known as the voice of Space Ghost, Batman and many other characters. He gained nationwide fame in the late 1960s as the straight-laced announcer on TV's frenetic "Rowan and Martin's Laugh-In."
Ron Galella/WireImage/Getty Images
New York Times media columnist <a href="http://money.cnn.com/2015/02/12/media/david-carr-new-york-times-obit-dead/index.html" target="_blank">David Carr</a> died suddenly after collapsing in the newspaper's newsroom on Thursday, February 12. He was 58.
New York Times media columnist David Carr died suddenly after collapsing in the newspaper's newsroom on Thursday, February 12. He was 58.
Mark Sagliocco/Getty Images
"60 Minutes" correspondent <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/11/us/bob-simon-dies/index.html" target="_blank">Bob Simon</a> died Wednesday, February 11, in a car accident in New York, CBS News reported. He was 73.
"60 Minutes" correspondent Bob Simon died Wednesday, February 11, in a car accident in New York, CBS News reported. He was 73.
Jason Kempin/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/11/us/jerry-tarkanian-obit/index.html" target="_blank">Jerry Tarkanian</a>, a legendary basketball coach who won the 1990 national championship at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, died Wednesday, February 11. He was 84.
Jerry Tarkanian, a legendary basketball coach who won the 1990 national championship at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, died Wednesday, February 11. He was 84.
Otto Greule/Allsp/Getty Images
Basketball coach<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/08/us/former-north-carolina-tarheels-coach-dean-smith-died/index.html" target="_blank"> Dean Smith, </a>who led the University of North Carolina from 1961 to 1997 and won two national championships over his illustrious career, died February 7 at the age of 83, according to the university's official athletics website.
Basketball coach Dean Smith, who led the University of North Carolina from 1961 to 1997 and won two national championships over his illustrious career, died February 7 at the age of 83, according to the university's official athletics website.
Phil Sears/ALLSPORT
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/08/golf/golf-billy-casper-dead/index.html" target="_blank">Billy Casper</a>, a pioneer of professional golf whose career spanned more than four decades, died at the age of 83, the San Diego Union-Tribune reported on February 7. His resume included three major titles and 51 PGA Tour wins.
Billy Casper, a pioneer of professional golf whose career spanned more than four decades, died at the age of 83, the San Diego Union-Tribune reported on February 7. His resume included three major titles and 51 PGA Tour wins.
Augusta National/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.pga.com/news/pga/charles-sifford-who-broke-pro-golfs-color-barrier-dies-age-92" target="_blank" target="_blank">Charles Sifford</a>, the first black player on the PGA Tour, died on February 3, according to Derek Sprague, president of the PGA of America. Sifford was 92.
Charles Sifford, the first black player on the PGA Tour, died on February 3, according to Derek Sprague, president of the PGA of America. Sifford was 92.
Gary Newkirk/Allsport/Getty Images
Australian writer <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/01/30/asia/thorn-birds-colleen-mccullough-obit/index.html" target="_blank">Colleen McCullough</a>, who wrote the best-selling novel "The Thorn Birds," died on January 29. She was 77.
Australian writer Colleen McCullough, who wrote the best-selling novel "The Thorn Birds," died on January 29. She was 77.
Ulf Andersen/Getty Images
Longtime New York City radio and television personality <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/01/25/us/joe-franklin-obit/" target="_blank">Joe Franklin</a> died January 24 at the age of 88.
Longtime New York City radio and television personality Joe Franklin died January 24 at the age of 88.
Kevin Larkin/AP
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/01/23/us/ernie-banks-obit/index.html" target="_blank">Ernie Banks</a>, a Hall of Fame baseball player nicknamed "Mr. Cub," died January 23 in Chicago, family attorney Mark Bogen said. Banks was 83.
Ernie Banks, a Hall of Fame baseball player nicknamed "Mr. Cub," died January 23 in Chicago, family attorney Mark Bogen said. Banks was 83.
AP
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/01/20/entertainment/feat-obit-anne-kirkbride-coronation-street-dies/index.html" target="_blank">Anne Kirkbride</a>, who starred in the UK soap opera "Coronation Street" for more than 40 years, died on January 19. She was 60.
Anne Kirkbride, who starred in the UK soap opera "Coronation Street" for more than 40 years, died on January 19. She was 60.
Christopher Furlong/Getty Images
Hip-hop artist <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/01/19/entertainment/asap-yams-death/index.html" target="_blank">A$AP Yams</a>, one of the founding members of A$AP Mob, died at the age of 26, the group's Facebook page said on January 18. It wasn't immediately clear how he had died.
Hip-hop artist A$AP Yams, one of the founding members of A$AP Mob, died at the age of 26, the group's Facebook page said on January 18. It wasn't immediately clear how he had died.
John Ricard/BET/Getty Images
The death of punk music producer <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/01/16/entertainment/kim-fowley-obit/index.html" target="_blank">Kim Fowley</a> was announced on January 15. He was 75. Fowley worked with a wide range of artists, including Paul Revere and the Raiders, the Modern Lovers, Blue Cheer, Kiss and Helen Reddy. But he will be likely be remembered most for helping form the Runaways.
The death of punk music producer Kim Fowley was announced on January 15. He was 75. Fowley worked with a wide range of artists, including Paul Revere and the Raiders, the Modern Lovers, Blue Cheer, Kiss and Helen Reddy. But he will be likely be remembered most for helping form the Runaways.
Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/01/11/showbiz/feat-anita-ekberg-dies/index.html">Anita Ekberg</a>, the actress and international sex symbol best known for her role in "La Dolce Vita," died in Italy on January 11. She was 83.
Anita Ekberg, the actress and international sex symbol best known for her role in "La Dolce Vita," died in Italy on January 11. She was 83.
Larry Ellis/Daily Express/Hulton Archive/Getty Images
Actor and comedian <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/01/11/showbiz/taylor-negron-obit/index.html" target="_blank">Taylor Negron</a> died after a long battle with cancer, according to his family on January 10. He was 57.
Actor and comedian Taylor Negron died after a long battle with cancer, according to his family on January 10. He was 57.
Everett Collection
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/01/08/showbiz/andrae-crouch-obit/index.html" target="_blank">Andrae Crouch</a>, a seven-time Grammy winner and gospel music legend, died January 8 at a Los Angeles-area hospital, his publicist said. He was 72.
Andrae Crouch, a seven-time Grammy winner and gospel music legend, died January 8 at a Los Angeles-area hospital, his publicist said. He was 72.
Everett Collection
Australian-born actor <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/01/09/showbiz/rod-taylor-dead/index.html" target="_blank">Rod Taylor</a>, who starred in Alfred Hitchcock's thriller "The Birds," died on January 7 in Los Angeles. He was 84.
Australian-born actor Rod Taylor, who starred in Alfred Hitchcock's thriller "The Birds," died on January 7 in Los Angeles. He was 84.
Silver Screen Collection/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/01/03/politics/edward-brooke-dies/index.html" target="_blank">Edward Brooke</a>, the first African-American to be popularly elected to the U.S. Senate, died January 3, according to family spokesman Ralph Neas and the Massachusetts Republican Party. Brooke was 95.
Edward Brooke, the first African-American to be popularly elected to the U.S. Senate, died January 3, according to family spokesman Ralph Neas and the Massachusetts Republican Party. Brooke was 95.
Bachrach/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/01/04/us/stuart-scott-remembered/index.html" target="_blank">Stuart Scott,</a> a veteran anchor on ESPN, died January 4 after a seven-year battle with cancer. He was 49.
Stuart Scott, a veteran anchor on ESPN, died January 4 after a seven-year battle with cancer. He was 49.
Kevin Winter/Getty Images
Country music star<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/01/02/showbiz/little-jimmy-dickens-obit/index.html" target="_blank"> Little Jimmy Dickens</a>, a fixture at the Grand Ole Opry for decades, died January 2 after having a stroke on Christmas, according to the Opry's website. He was 94.
Country music star Little Jimmy Dickens, a fixture at the Grand Ole Opry for decades, died January 2 after having a stroke on Christmas, according to the Opry's website. He was 94.
Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/01/02/showbiz/tv/feat-donna-douglas-beverly-hillbillies-elly-may-dead/index.html">Donna Douglas</a>, who played voluptuous tomboy daughter Elly May Clampett on the 1960s TV series "The Beverly Hillbillies," died January 2. She was 81.
Donna Douglas, who played voluptuous tomboy daughter Elly May Clampett on the 1960s TV series "The Beverly Hillbillies," died January 2. She was 81.
CBS Photo Archive/Getty Images
Former New York Gov. <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/01/01/us/mario-cuomo-dies-new-york-governor/index.html" target="_blank">Mario Cuomo,</a> whose passionate keynote address at the 1984 Democratic political convention vaulted him onto the national political scene, died on January 1. He was 82.
Former New York Gov. Mario Cuomo, whose passionate keynote address at the 1984 Democratic political convention vaulted him onto the national political scene, died on January 1. He was 82.
Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images/Rodaale
People we lost in 2015

Story highlights

Sarpong was the face of Tommy Hilfiger

Actor Wilmer Valderamma paid tribute to him

CNN  — 

Samuel Sarpong Jr., a former co-host of MTV’s “Yo Momma” and model, died Monday after jumping off the Colorado Street Bridge in Pasadena, California, a spokesperson for the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner said. He was 40.

According to a statement from the Pasadena Police Department, a witness reported seeing a man standing on the outside of the railing of the Colorado Bridge on Monday morning. Officers responded to the scene and closed the area off.

While police were talking to Sarpong members of his family arrived, police said, and provided information on his emotional state to the authorities.

“Tragically, after approximately seven hours of communication, the male jumped from the bridge into the Arroyo,” the statement read. “He was pronounced deceased by Pasadena Fire Paramedics at 3:52 PM.”

Ed Winter, assistant chief of investigations for the LA County Coroner, said the final cause of death is pending toxicology reports.

Sarpong was born in London and as a youngster moved to the United States with his father.

HOLLYWOOD - MARCH 05: Actor Sam Sarpong arrives at the 7th Annual Children's Uniting Nations Academy Awards Celebration held at the Hollywood Paladium on March 5, 2006 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Marsaili McGrath/Getty Images)
HOLLYWOOD - MARCH 05: Actor Sam Sarpong arrives at the 7th Annual Children's Uniting Nations Academy Awards Celebration held at the Hollywood Paladium on March 5, 2006 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Marsaili McGrath/Getty Images)
Marsaili McGrath/Getty Images North America/Getty Images
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As a model, he was the face of Tommy Hilfiger for several years and also modeled for other high profile designers including Dolce & Gabana and Versace.

Sarpong’s career as an actor earned him appearances in films like 2003’s “Love Don’t Cost A Thing” and on various TV shows including “My So Called Life,” “24” and “Bones.”

According to his IMDB page he had a bit role in the upcoming series FX series “American Crime Story” which is set to air in 2016.

But Sarpong was best known for three seasons of hosting the reality show “Yo Momma” with actor Wilmer Valderrama.

Valerrama paid tribute to Sarpong on Instagram and wrote “I am so sad & so confused.”

“Sam did it all, believed in dreaming bigger than anyone around him,” the actor wrote of his friend. “We made memories together that will last us forever, thank you for sharing your talent with me and the world.”

Sarpong’s family released the following statement to The Hollywood Reporter:

“It is with great sadness that the family of Samuel Sarpong, Jr. must share the news that Sam has passed away. The circumstances surrounding his death are currently under investigation and no additional details are known at this time. Information about final arrangements will be forthcoming. The family appreciates the thoughts prayers and other expressions of sympathy, and request their privacy be respected at this extremely difficult time.”

According to the family he is is survived by his father Samuel Sarpong Sr., and his sister June Sarpong.

People we’ve lost in 2015