by Dr. Rick Wallace

Created on: December 26, 2012   Last Updated: December 27, 2012

It seems that every year as the year ends and the world looks back on the happenings of that particular year, it is almost sobering at the number of deaths of celebrities. There are those that succumb to time and age, while others lost long-fought battles with terminal illnesses. Then there are those that met early demises because lives filled with trouble that they just could not seem to escape. This article will take just a brief moment to acknowledge the life and legacies of some of the those celebrities who’s brilliant work made us dance, laugh, cry, smile, get angry and so much more.

Whitney Houston – 1963-2012, one would be hard pressed to find a more tragic, untimely and shocking death than that of Whitney Houston. The woman, known to so many, simply as the voice, was found dead in her hotel room leading to a whirlwind of speculation and heartbreak. One could not deny that this lady was truly gifted and she will be sorely missed.

Joe Paterno – 1926-2012, once the most winning coach in college football history, Paterno, unfortunately will probably be remembered for the Jerry Sandusky scandal. Shortly after having a great deal of his wins and records stripped from the record books by the NCAA, and his statue removed from the campus, Paterno succumb to his battle with cancer. Only time will reveal what his final legacy will be. One thing is for certain, the students of Penn State still admire and love him.

Don Cornelius – 1936-2012, The man who was the creator or one of the most popular TV dance programs in the history of TV as well as being known for the slogan “Love, Peace and Soul” tragically took his life earlier this year. Leaving behind a lot of unanswered questions. Cornelius also left behind a legacy of impacting the lives of musicians and their fans for decades. Cornelius’ imprint is indelibly stamped on the music world.

Larry Hagman – 1931-2012, made his mark as a TV actor; first as the lead on I Dream of Jeanie and as the man everyone loved to hate, J.R. Ewing with two different runs on the TV blockbuster Dallas. Hagman was excellent at his craft and has surely impacted generations of aspiring actors and actresses.

Sherman Hemsley – 1938-2012, Though Sherman Hemsley did a couple of other TV sitcoms in his life, he will forever be known as George Jefferson, the mouthy, obnoxious, neighbor in a New York high rise. This 70’s show was a hit for a number of seasons. Hemsley’s brand of humor was dynamic and encompassing. He opened the door for so many that followed after him.

Dick Clark – 1929-2012, the ageless one finally succumb to time. Dick Clark will forever be remembered for American Bandstand and Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rocking Eve. This New Year’s Celebration will definitely have a little something missing.

Whether these celebrities met untimely deaths or just simply arrived at the end of their journey, it sends one clear message to the entire world; we all must, at some point and time, end our journey here on earth. No man or woman escapes death. It should inspire every person reading this article to make the most of their lives. Live every day with purpose and intent. Never take anything for granted for tomorrow is not promised. Each of the people mentioned in this article left legacies, irregardless to what you may think of them, they made an impact. The question then becomes: What legacy will you bequeath to those that follow you? 

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