Those We Lost — June 8

Honoring those we lost on June 8 — remembered for what they gave, and for what they left behind.

Bonnie Pointer

Born July 11, 1950 — Died June 8, 2020

Title: Singer, songwriter, and founding member of The Pointer Sisters

Bonnie Pointer helped form The Pointer Sisters, a group that moved through gospel, soul, country, funk, disco, and pop with remarkable range. After leaving the group, she also built a solo career, including the disco-era hit “Heaven Must Have Sent You.”

Adelaide M. Cromwell

Born November 27, 1919 — Died June 8, 2019

Title: Sociologist, educator, and African American studies pioneer

Adelaide Cromwell was a pioneering sociologist and professor whose work helped shape African and African American studies. She founded Boston University’s African American Studies program and was also the first African American instructor at Smith College.

Jimmy Rushing

Born August 26, 1901 — Died June 8, 1972

Title: Blues and jazz singer

Jimmy Rushing was a blues and jazz singer best known for his work with the Count Basie Orchestra. His powerful voice and swinging delivery helped define the “blues shouter” tradition and made him one of the great vocal personalities of big-band jazz.

William Stanley Braithwaite

Born December 6, 1878 — Died June 8, 1962

Title: Poet, critic, anthologist, and publisher

William Stanley Braithwaite was an influential Black poet, critic, and anthologist in the early 20th century. His annual anthologies helped shape American poetry culture, and his work made him an important literary voice before and during the Harlem Renaissance era.