Gone But Not Forgotten

By Genoa Barrow | OBSERVER Senior Staff Writer Some led their lives in the public eye, giving us moments and memories to talk about for years to come. Others were only known to the masses because of their violent ends. From elders and entertainers to victims of mass shootings and other violence, the Black community saw an exceptional amount of loss this year. As the year ends, The OBSERVER takes a moment to reflect and acknowledge a few of those who left us in 2023. JANUARY Missing Concord teen Damond Lazemby Jr. was found dead along Highway 4 on Jan. 1 after apparently being struck by a hit and run driver. Lazemby was just 19. Musician Fred White died Jan. 2. White, 67, was a former drummer with Earth, Wind & Fire and brother to longtime lead singer Verdine White. Tap dance pioneer Arthur Duncan died Jan. 4. Duncan, 89, appeared on “The Betty White Show” in 1954, making him the first African American to be a regular on a television variety show. He also danced on “The Lawrence Welk Show” from 1964 to 1982. Monty Maxwell, who helped locals realize their dream of homeownership, died Jan. 4 from complications...