UPDATED: 12:00 am EST May 12th, 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.
According to multiple sources, Philly rapper LGP Qua was killed in a shooting in Philadelphia’s Juniata Park section Sunday. A representative for the rapper confirmed to Action News that he was murdered in the shooting.
According to 6abc news, He was shot in the chest.
It happened just before 4:40 p.m. on Sunday along the 1400 block of East Luzerne Street in the city’s Juniata Park section. A motive is still unknown, and no arrests have been made. Police have also yet to release any further details about the deadly shooting. A $20,000 reward is being offered for information leading to an arrest.
News of LGP QUA’s homicide sparked shocked responses online, along with heartfelt tributes from the community.
Notable Philadelphia figures have shared their heartfelt sentiments and condolences on social media. Wallo267 — an influencer and motivational speaker, whose worked with LGP Qua –penned a heartfelt caption on his social media post in honor of LGP Qua.
“@lgp_qua was more than just an artist he was a voice of the streets, a beacon of positivity, and a reminder that you could rise above your circumstances without losing yourself.” Wallo wrote. “His energy was unmatched, and his message was always clear: uplift, motivate, and give the people something real to feel.”
“It’s heartbreaking to see someone who stood for light and change be taken from us so soon, but his impact, his words, and his spirit will continue to echo in the hearts of those he inspired. My deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, and loved ones during this devastating time. Rest easy, Qua you were a bright light in a dark world.”
Learn more below about who in our culture has passed away so far this year in 2025 Below
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on ioneblackamericaweb.staging.go.ione.nyc
1. LGP Qua
Qua, whose real name is Qidere Johnson, passed away on May 11 at just 25 years old. A native of North Philly, he got serious about music after spending a short time in jail back in 2016.
That experience changed him, and he decided to use his voice to inspire others. He started gaining attention in 2017 when one of his powerful freestyles during Meek Mill’s incarceration went viral. It even caught the attention of big names like Jay-Z and Nas. LGP Qua was known for real, heartfelt tracks like “Stay Woke,” “Reaper,” and “Hungry Before the Bite.” He also worked with Will.i.am on “INSOMNIAC (woke)” and teamed up with Foot Locker on a positive campaign.
2. John Edwards
John Edwards, the former lead singer of The Spinners, passed away at 80, marking the end of an era for one of R&B’s most beloved vocal groups. Edwards, who joined The Spinners in 1977, brought his powerful voice and unique style to the group during their second wave of success. Stepping in after Philippe Wynne’s departure, Edwards made an indelible mark with hits like “Working My Way Back to You” and “Cupid,” showcasing his incredible range and soulful tones.
3. Clarence O. Smith
Clarence O. Smith, the visionary co-founder of ESSENCE Magazine, passed away on April 21 at the age of 92, leaving behind an indelible mark on the world of media and culture. A pioneer in his field, Smith worked tirelessly to champion the voices and influence of Black women, reshaping the landscape of both the magazine industry and advertising.
4. Dick Barnett
Dick Barnett, a basketball Hall of Famer and two-time NBA champion, passed away on April 27 at the age of 88. Known for his distinctive playstyle and impact on the court, Barnett’s legacy has left an indelible mark on basketball history.
5. Alexis Herman
Alexis Herman, the first Black Secretary of Labor in U.S. history, passed away on April 25 at the age of 77. A trailblazer in civil rights and workforce advocacy, Herman’s career was marked by her unwavering commitment to creating opportunities and equality for all.
6. Eddie Fluellen
Eddie Fluellen, a founding member of the soul/funk group Switch, passed away on April 14 at the age of 68. Known for their smooth harmonies, infectious grooves, and pioneering musicianship, Switch was a force on the Motown scene, and Eddie’s contributions as keyboardist and co-founder will forever resonate in the fabric of R&B history.
7. Young Scooter
Young Scooter was among the first artists signed to fellow ATL rapper Future’s Freebandz imprint. The rapper gained notoriety with his Street Lottery mixtape, led by the hit single, “Columbia.”
8. Pastor DeJaughn William “Billy” Murphy
Born and raised in Detroit, Billy was the second oldest of five children and a third-generation pastor. He was the proud son of Bishop William H. Murphy Jr. and Elder Donna R. Murphy. Murphy passed away on March 26 at the age of 42.
9. Mia Love
Love was the first Black Republican woman and Haitian-American in Congress. A former Saratoga Springs, UT mayor, she championed fiscal responsibility. Love passed away at 49 on March 23, after a three-year battle with brain cancer.
10. George Foreman
Source:Getty
Foreman’s family released a statement on Foreman’s official Instagram account, saying “Our hearts are broken. With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved George Edward Foreman Sr. who peacefully departed on March 21, 2025 surrounded by loved ones. A devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grand and great grandfather, he lived a life marked by unwavering faith, humility, and purpose.
11. Lotto Savage
Source:Getty
Lotto Savage, an affiliate of 21 Savage and a member of the Slaughter Gang collective, reportedly passed away on March 19. DJ Kutthroat, his manager and DJ, confirmed the news in an Instagram post saying, “Dam Lotto #RIPLottoSavage.”
12. Donald “Slick” Watts
Donald “Slick” Watts, a cherished Seattle basketball figure, passed away at 73. An undrafted talent out of Xavier University of Louisiana, Watts joined the NBA’s Seattle Supersonics through a tryout arranged by coach Bill Russell. Over five seasons, he became the first player to lead the league in assists and steals in a single season (1975-76), earning First Team All-Defense honors and the J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award. Post-retirement, Watts stayed in Seattle, teaching physical education and running a basketball academy with his son. His warm presence at local games and dedication to youth cemented his enduring community legacy.
13. Oliver Miller
Former NBA center Oliver Miller, affectionately known as “The Big O,” passed away on Wednesday at the age of 54, following a battle with cancer. Miller’s death was confirmed by Suns analyst Eddie Johnson, who shared the heartbreaking news on social media. The basketball world is now mourning the loss of a player whose presence on the court was as formidable as his personality off it.
14. Junior Bridgeman
Junior Bridgeman, a former University of Louisville basketball star and billionaire entrepreneur, has died at 71 following a medical emergency during a fundraising event at the Galt House Hotel in Louisville. Known for his time with the Milwaukee Bucks and Los Angeles Clippers, Bridgeman transitioned from the NBA to extraordinary business success, owning over 450 restaurant franchises, a Coca-Cola bottling operation, and Ebony and Jet magazines. Tributes poured in, with Louisville leaders calling him an “icon” for his athletic and philanthropic contributions. Remembered for his generosity and integrity, Bridgeman leaves a remarkable legacy both on and off the court.
15. D’Wayne Wiggins
Born in Oakland, CA on February 14, 1961, Wiggins formed the band with brother Raphael Saadiq and cousin Timothy Riley in the late 1980s. The band released their debut album, Who?, in 1988. The album’s first single, “Little Walter,” hit #1 on the R&B charts, and the album peaked at #69 on the Billboard 200.
The follow-up, 1990’s The Revival, saw the band incorporate more live instrumentation and more elements of classic soul music. The album was a commercial success, peaking at #34 on the Billboard 200 and going platinum. The album spawned several #1 hits on the R&B charts, including the Top 10 pop hit “Feels Good,” “It Never Rains (In Southern California), and “Whatever You Want.”
In 2023, the original Tony! Toni! Toné! lineup reunited for a tour celebrating the 30th anniversary of Sons of Soul, the band’s first tour in 25 years. Plans for a new album were initially discussed but never came to be. Wiggins continued to perform as bandleader of Tony! Toni! Toné! until his health worsened.
16. DJ Funk
DJ Funk, born Charles Chambers, was a trailblazing figure in Chicago’s underground music scene and instrumental in defining the ghetto house genre. Known for high-energy hits like “Work Dat Body” and “Pump It,” his bass-heavy sound and party-driven lyrics brought vibrancy to Midwest clubs throughout the 1990s. A leader in the house music movement, DJ Funk solidified his legacy on labels like Dance Mania, which he later owned. Sadly, he passed away at 54 from stage 4 cancer.
17. Luther Keith
18. Harry Elston
Harry Elston, founder of the Friends of Distinction and the voice behind iconic hits like “Grazing in the Grass” and “Going in Circles,” has passed away at 86. Elston formed the group in 1968, delivering a unique blend of pop and soul with unforgettable harmonies. Their music, including hits like “Love or Let Me Be Lonely,” graced the charts in the late 60s and early 70s. Managed by NFL star Jim Brown, the group became a vital part of the California soul sound. Elston’s influence extended beyond his vibrant musical career, earning admiration for his kindness, optimism, and lasting legacy in soul music.
19. Roy Ayers
Roy Ayers, the iconic jazz vibraphonist celebrated for his groundbreaking contributions to jazz-funk and neo-soul, passed away on March 4, 2025, in New York City at the age of 84 after a prolonged illness.
20. Sylvester Turner
Source:Getty
A Houston native, Turner began his career in law after graduating from Harvard Law School. In 1983 he founded Barnes & Turner, his own law firm in addition to his duties as a professor and lecturer at several law schools.
His move to the political arena would see Turner serve two terms as mayor of the City of Houston after being elected in 2016.
Last November, the former mayor won the election to fill late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee’s seat in District 18.
21. Angie Stone
Source:Getty
Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter Angie Stone was killed in an auto accident Saturday morning (March 1) at the age of 63. Her daughter, Diamond, confirmed the news on social media, simply saying “My Mommy is gone.” The singer’s rep, Deborah R. Champagne, confirmed to TMZ that the singer was killed on her way home from a show in Montgomery, Alabama.
22. Dr. Alvin Poussaint
Dr. Alvin Poussaint studied the tendrils of systemic racism and Black self-sufficiency along with serving as a consultant to hit TV shows.
23. Chris Jasper
Chris Jasper, who played a key role in the Isley Brothers’ success in the 70s and 80s, passed away on Feb. 23 from cancer at age 73.
24. Roberta Flack
Born in Black Mountain, North Carolina, Flack’s musical talent was evident from a young age. She began studying piano at 9 and later earned a full scholarship to Howard University at just 15, becoming one of its youngest students. Her career soared when Clint Eastwood featured her rendition of “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” in his 1971 film Play Misty for Me. The emotional ballad became a chart-topping hit and earned her the Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 1973.
25. Gwen McCrae
Gwen McCrae, legendary soul and disco singer, known for her 1975 hit “Rockin’ Chair,”, passed away at 81.
26. Voletta Wallace
Source:Getty
The cause of death has been reported as natural causes, according to Monroe County Coroner Thomas Yanac.
27. Jerry “Iceman” Butler
Jerry initially gained fame as the lead singer of the R&B group The Impressions, a groundbreaking act that included iconic names like Curtis Mayfield. Together, they created influential tracks such as 1958’s “For Your Precious Love,” which Butler co-wrote and which became their defining hit.
28. Chelsea Reject
Chelsea Reject, born Chelsea Alexander, was a Brooklyn-based indie rapper known for her introspective lyrics and experimental artistry. Emerging in the 2010s, she gained recognition with her mixtape “Cmplx,” collaborating with members of Pro Era and sharing stages with artists like Mobb Deep and Talib Kweli. Her music often reflected themes of anxiety, self-discovery, and resilience, blending laid-back production with fiery energy.
Chelsea was also celebrated for her independent spirit, self-releasing projects like “This Is Not My Final Form” and touring internationally. Her work resonated with fans for its authenticity and emotional depth, making her a prominent figure in New York City’s underground rap scene.
29. Gene “Groove” Allen
Gene “Groove” Allen, a Hip-Hop pioneer and actor, gained fame as part of Groove B. Chill, known for their 1990 album Starting From Zero. He shone in cult classics House Party and its sequel, blending music and film.
30. Irv Gotti
Source:Getty
Irv Gotti, the influential record executive, producer, and entrepreneur best known for founding Murder Inc. Records, has passed away, The Hollywood Reporter confirmed Wednesday. The cause of his death remains undisclosed.
31. Retired Lt. Col. Harry Stewart, Jr
Stewart, Jr. was a retired U.S. Air Force officer and one of the legendary Tuskegee Airmen, the first African-American military aviators in the United States Armed Forces. Born on July 4, 1924, Stewart served during World War II as a fighter pilot in the 332nd Fighter Group, famously known as the “Red Tails.”
32. Reatha “Rose” Grey
Reatha “Rose” Grey was a member of the Retirement House and quickly became a viral TikTok sensation for her funny wit and zest for life. It was announced that she passed by her fellow friends, no cause of death was given.
33. Yolanda Halley
Source:Getty
Producer Yolanda Halley, passed away on Sunday, January 19, 2025
34. Barry Michael Cooper
Source:Getty
Journalist and author Barry Michael Cooper wrote the films New Jack City (1991) , Sugar Hill (1994) and Above the Rim (1994)
35. Former NBA All-Star Gus Williams
Williams received the nickname “The Wizard” for his dazzling ball-handling and quick drives. Over his career, Williams averaged 17.1 points, 5.6 assists and 2.0 steals per game with two All-Star selections and multiple All-NBA honors.
36. Actress Dalyce Curry
Dalyce Curry was an actress known for her role in “Blues Brothers.” She recently passed away at the age of 95 due to the Los Angeles wildfires. Her remains were found at her home in Altadena, California
37. Sam Moore
Born in Miami, Florida, in October 1935, Moore grew up immersed in gospel music, singing in church choirs before his path led him to rhythm and blues. His life changed in the early 1960s when he met Dave Prater at a Miami nightclub. Together, they formed Sam & Dave, and the pair quickly became a driving force in soul music. Signed to the legendary Stax Records, their partnership with the songwriting team of Isaac Hayes and David Porter resulted in some of the genre’s most enduring classics.
38. Singer, Brenton Wood
Born Alfred Jesse Smith in Shreveport, Louisiana, Wood’s family relocated to California, where his artistic talents blossomed. Drawing inspiration from legends like Sam Cooke, his unique blend of soulful vocals, piano-driven instrumentation, and playful lyrics brought a fresh vibrancy to the R&B genre. His work captured universal experiences of love, heartbreak, and connection, resonating deeply with listeners.
Wood rose to fame in the 1960s with hits like “The Oogum Boogum Song” and “Gimme Little Sign.”
