Who We Lost in 2025: A Tribute

Every year brings with it moments of joy, growth, and change—but also loss. In 2025, the world said goodbye to many notable figures who shaped culture, music, sports, literature, politics, and beyond. Though their lives came to an end, their impact lives on in the hearts and minds of millions around the globe.

One of the most emotional farewells this year was to Connie Francis, the beloved pop singer of the 1950s and ’60s. Known for timeless classics like "Who’s Sorry Now", she was more than just a voice—she was a symbol of resilience. Connie passed away at the age of 87 in Florida on July 16, 2025. Her music, which had recently found new life through social media platforms like TikTok, proves that art can transcend generations.

The literary world lost a powerful voice when Andrea Gibson, the award-winning spoken-word poet and LGBTQ+ icon, passed away on July 14. Andrea, who battled ovarian cancer, left behind more than just poems—they left a movement. Their words empowered thousands of queer and nonbinary individuals to embrace their identity with strength and beauty.

In the world of cinema, July was particularly heartbreaking. On July 3, we lost Michael Madsen, the iconic actor known for his roles in Reservoir Dogs and Kill Bill. At age 67, Madsen passed from cardiac arrest, but his gritty, unforgettable performances will remain etched in film history. Just weeks later, the entertainment world was shaken again by the sudden passing of The Vivienne, the first winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK. At just 32, The Vivienne’s legacy is one of vibrant artistry, fearlessness, and groundbreaking representation.

Sports fans were equally heartbroken by the deaths of two champions. Bryan Braman, the former NFL linebacker and Super Bowl winner, died at age 38 after a battle with cancer. Known for his wild energy on the field and heart off it, his loss was deeply felt across the NFL community. Another shock came with the passing of Felix Baumgartner, the Austrian daredevil famous for his 2012 supersonic skydive from the edge of space. At age 56, Felix died in a tragic paragliding accident in Italy on July 17, 2025.

Political and public life also saw the departure of prominent figures. Muhammadu Buhari, former president of Nigeria, passed away on July 13 at age 82. Known both for his military leadership and his civilian presidency, Buhari’s legacy remains complex and widely discussed across Africa and the global political scene.

In the world of media and journalism, Bill Moyers and David Gergen were two legendary names we lost. Moyers, aged 91, was one of public broadcasting’s most respected voices—his thoughtful interviews and documentaries helped shape American political discourse. Gergen, a longtime adviser to several U.S. presidents and a prominent political analyst, passed away at age 83.

Another heartbreaking loss was Lalo Schifrin, the composer behind the unforgettable Mission: Impossible theme. He died on June 26 at the age of 92. His music thrilled generations of fans and helped define the sound of modern action cinema.

In the world of literature, Martin Cruz Smith, the author behind the bestseller Gorky Park, passed away at 82. His unique style brought Russian intrigue into the hands of Western readers and shaped the crime fiction genre for decades.

And we cannot forget the incredible story of Fauja Singh, the world’s oldest marathon runner. He died at the astounding age of 114 after a traffic accident. Fauja, who began running in his 80s, proved that age is just a number and inspired millions with his strength and spirit.

These individuals came from different walks of life—some brought music to our ears, others told stories with words or film, some led countries or charged across football fields. But what united them was their impact. They lived loudly, authentically, and passionately. And though they are gone, their influence remains.

Grief is often the price we pay for love and admiration. And this year, we paid that price many times. But with every tear shed, there’s also gratitude—for the music we can still play, the words we can still read, and the courage we still carry thanks to them.