Those We Lost — June 19

Honoring those we lost on June 19 — remembered for what they gave, and for what they left behind.

Alexander Twilight

Born September 23, 1795 — Died June 19, 1857

Title: Educator, minister, politician, and early college graduate of African descent

Alexander Twilight was an educator, minister, and Vermont legislator whose life is tied to early Black educational history. He has often been described as the first person of color to graduate from an American college, though recent scholarship has complicated the history of his Black identity, so his entry should be framed with care.

Lynn Hamilton

Born April 25, 1930 — Died June 19, 2025

Title: Actress and television performer

Lynn Hamilton was an actress best remembered by many for her roles on Sanford and Son and The Waltons. Her long career included television, film, and stage work, and her presence helped shape Black visibility in American entertainment across several decades.

Cavin Yarbrough

Born January 22, 1954 — Died June 19, 2025

Title: Singer, musician, producer, and one-half of Yarbrough & Peoples

Cavin Yarbrough was part of the R&B duo Yarbrough & Peoples, best known for the 1980 hit “Don’t Stop the Music.” His work belongs to the early-1980s funk, dance, and R&B sound that filled clubs, radio, and Black music memory. His funeral home obituary gives January 22, 1954 — June 19, 2025 as his date line.