Those We Lost — July 12

Honoring those we lost on July 12 — remembered for what they gave, and for what they left behind.

Rose McClendon

Born August 27, 1884 — died July 12, 1936

Actress, theater organizer, Harlem Renaissance stage figure, and Black theater pioneer.

McClendon became one of the leading Black stage actresses of her generation and helped create space for serious Black theater. In the last year of her life, she co-founded the Negro People’s Theatre in Harlem, and her legacy continued through the Rose McClendon Players.

Jimmie Lunceford

Full name: James Melvin Lunceford

Born June 6, 1902 — died July 12, 1947

Jazz saxophonist, bandleader, arranger, educator, and swing-era orchestra leader.

Lunceford led one of the most respected big bands of the swing era, known for precision, showmanship, humor, and tight musicianship. His orchestra helped define the sound and stagecraft of Black big-band jazz during the 1930s and 1940s.

Minnie Riperton

Full name: Minnie Julia Riperton

Born November 8, 1947 — died July 12, 1979

Soul singer, songwriter, vocalist, whistle-register pioneer, and breast cancer awareness advocate.

Riperton became known for her extraordinary vocal range and her classic song “Lovin’ You.” After being diagnosed with breast cancer, she continued performing and became one of the first Black women to serve as national educational chair for the American Cancer Society.