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38 Black Celebrities Who Died in 2016

Photo by Andrew H. Walker/Getty Images

Photo by Andrew H. Walker/Getty Images

Phife Dawg (Nov. 20, 1970 – March 22, 2016)

The sudden death of A Tribe Called Quest’s Phife Dawg at age 45 was attributed to complications from Type 2 diabetes. The group’s 1991 album “The Low End Theory” included the hit singles “Check the Rhime,” “Jazz (We’ve Got) Buggin’ Out” and “Scenario.” Known as the Five-Foot Assassin, Phife Dawg was also known for his unique rhymes. He had such a lasting impact, his fans petitioned to have a New York park named after him.

Richard "Onion" Horton
Richard “Onion” Horton ( July 5, 1936 – Nov. 24, 2016)

Alzheimer’s disease claimed the life of controversial radio personality Richard “Onion” Horton at 80 years old, who was known for his combative, unabashed views on race.

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