Those We Lost — June 23

Honoring those we lost on June 23 — remembered for what they gave, and for what they left behind.

Dr. Betty Shabazz

Born May 28, 1934 — Died June 23, 1997

Title: Educator, civil rights advocate, and widow of Malcolm X

Dr. Betty Shabazz carried a heavy public legacy after the assassination of Malcolm X, but she also built her own life as an educator, administrator, mother, and advocate. Her life reminds us that the families of movement leaders often carried grief, responsibility, and public expectation long after the cameras moved on.

Bobby “Blue” Bland

Born January 27, 1930 — Died June 23, 2013

Title: Blues, soul, and R&B singer

Bobby “Blue” Bland was one of the great voices of blues and soul, known for blending gospel feeling, blues storytelling, and R&B sophistication. His emotional delivery and polished arrangements helped shape the sound of modern soul-blues.

Pat Colbert

Born January 16, 1947 — Died June 23, 2024

Title: Actress and television performer

Pat Colbert was an actress best known for playing Dora Mae on Dallas, where she became a familiar presence on one of television’s biggest prime-time dramas. Her career also included appearances on shows like Benson and The Fall Guy, helping expand Black visibility in 1980s television.