Those We Lost — May 14

Honoring those we lost on May 14 — remembered for what they gave, and for what they left behind.

B.B. King

Born September 16, 1925 — Died May 14, 2015

Field: Blues / Guitar / Black Music / American Popular Music

Riley B. King, known as B.B. King, was one of the most important blues musicians in American history. His guitar style — built on tone, vibrato, space, and emotional phrasing — shaped blues, rock, soul, and generations of guitar players.

Why it matters: B.B. King is essential to the May archive. He was not just “King of the Blues” by nickname; he became one of the central translators of Black blues feeling into global popular music. His influence runs through electric blues, rock guitar, R&B, and American performance culture.

Loften Mitchell

Born April 15, 1919 — Died May 14, 2001

Field: Theater / Playwriting / Black Drama

Loften Mitchell was a playwright, librettist, and author connected to the Black theater movement.

Why it matters: His work helped document and build Black dramatic tradition in the 20th century.

C. Eric Lincoln

Born June 23, 1924 — Died May 14, 2000

Field: Sociology / Religion / Black Church Studies

C. Eric Lincoln was a scholar of religion, sociology, and the Black church.

Why it matters: His scholarship helped shape how America understands the Black church, race, religion, and social structure.

Rev. William “Bill” Lawson

Born June 28, 1928 — Died May 14, 2024

Field: Civil Rights / Ministry / Houston Leadership

Rev. William Lawson was a Houston minister, civil rights leader, and founding pastor of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church.

Why it matters: He represents local civil rights leadership, church-based organizing, and long-term community institution building.

Sue K. Brown

Born August 19, 1948 — Died May 14, 2024

Field: Diplomacy / Foreign Service / Black Women in Government

Sue K. Brown was a U.S. Foreign Service officer and ambassador to Montenegro.

Why it matters: She adds a Black women in diplomacy lane to the archive.

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Wear the history: B.B. King — from the Black Knowledge Wear collection.