Remembering the celebrities we said goodbye to in 2016

As 2016 comes to an end, we can't help but take a moment to fondly remember the icons, beloved music, film and TV stars, and rising talents just getting their starts that we've lost this year. Photo: Getty Images, PA

William Christopher - December 31 The actor known for playing Father Mulcahy on the popular TV show M*A*S*H passed away at his home in Pasadena at age 84. According to the TV star's son John Christopher, William died from non-small cell lung cancer. The Hollywood actor was diagnosed a year and a half ago. The New York Times reported that William responded "well to treatment until recently."The dad-of-two is survived by his wife Barbara in addition to his sons John and Ned. Photo: Michael Tullberg/Getty Images

Debbie Reynolds - December 28 One day after the death of her daughter Carrie Fisher, Debbie passed away at the age of 84. "She's gone to be with Carrie," Debbie's son, Todd Fisher confirmed. "She loved taking care of her and now she's gone to be with her." Debbie was at Todd's home making arrangements for Carrie's funeral, when she suffered a stroke around 1 p.m. She was taken to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, where she passed away later in the evening. The veteran actress was known for her early roles in Singing in the Rain and The Unsinkable Molly Brown. More recently, she continued to make her mark in the world of film and television with roles in Will and Grace and Disney's HalloweenTown series. Photo: David Livingston/Getty Images

Carrie Fisher- December 27 Star Wars actress Carrie Fisher passed away at the age of 60 after suffering a heart attack. Carrie's family rep released a statement confirming the sad news on behalf of her daughter Billie Lourd. “It is with a very deep sadness that Billie Lourd confirms that her beloved mother Carrie Fisher passed away at 8:55 this morning," the statement read. “She was loved by the world and she will be missed profoundly. Our entire family thanks you for your thoughts and prayers.” The Princess Diarist author suffered a heart attack while onboard a plane en route to Los Angeles from London on December 23. She was removed from the flight and taken to a hospital where she later passed. Photo: Dave Benett/Getty Images

Ricky Harris - December 26 The actor known for his roles on Everybody Hates Chris and Moesha died at age 54. The comedian's manager Cindy Ambers confirmed the sad news to The Hollywood Reporter. She told the outlet that Ricky died of a heart attack. Since news of his passing broke, members of the entertainment world have paid tribute to the late funny man. Ice Cube tweeted, "Damn, we lost Ricky Harris. The world is a little less funny today. RIP homie." Meanwhile Snoop Dogg shared a photo of Ricky writing, "C u when I get there like we used to do in church on the east side tell Nate to hold my note." Photo: Jerod Harris/Getty Images

George Michael - December 25 George Michael died at the age of 53. According to his publicist, the former Wham singer "passed away peacefully at home" on Christmas day. "It is with great sadness that we can confirm our beloved son, brother and friend George passed away peacefully at home over the Christmas period," the statement from his publicist read. "The family would ask that their privacy be respected at this difficult and emotional time. There will be no further comment at this stage." George was born Georgious Kyriacos Panayiotou in North London in 1963. He sold more than 100 million albums throughout his career which spanned almost four decades. His song "Last Christmas" was one of his former band's most well-known classic hits, and a special part of the festive seasons for millions around the world. The singer was planning to release a documentary in 2017. Photo: Getty

Franca Sozzani - December The editor-in-chief of Italian Vogue died at age 66 after losing her battle to a year-long illness. The fashion icon is survived by her only child, son Francesco Carrozzini. Since news of her death broke, the fashion industry has been paying their respects to Franca. Givenchy creative director Ricardo Tisci posted a tribute writing, "My dear friend Franca, you were one of my very first supporters and I honor your memory today and everyday to come, you will always stay in my heart, as I am sure you will stay in the one of everyone who really knew you. How lucky they are, to have you in heaven." American Vogue's Anna Wintour also penned a moving article about her late friend and colleague. “Franca and I began our careers as editors in chief at around the same time, but that didn’t automatically admit us to some exclusive club where all Vogue editors are BFFs; in fact, I think for the first few years we just circled each other, quietly,” Bee Shaffers mom wrote in an online article for Vogue. “Gradually, however, show by show and season by season, Franca and I found ourselves falling into a friendship that I am so happy and honored to say sustained itself for 30 years. That’s one thing that Franca taught me about friendship: Sometimes, you really have to earn it.” "After she became ill, I began visiting her at her home in Milan. Her mind and spirit were undiminished as we discussed every topic under the sun, from the fall of Matteo Renzi, to her amazing work with women in Ghana, to our children’s miraculous love affair,” Anna shared. “Her fierce and unwavering support will never be forgotten.” Photo: PA

Gordon Hunt - December 17 The famed director-actor-producer lost his battle with Parkinson’s disease at age 87. Helen Hunt's rep confirmed the passing of the Oscar-winning actress' father to The Hollywood Reporter. “Gordon was a master of reinvention — a journeyman artist,” Helen said in a statement to the outlet. “He knew and taught that the work doesn’t always find you. You need to create and re-create the work every day.” Gordon is known for having served as the recording director on classic cartoons including The Smurfs, Richie Rich, The Jetsons, Super Friends, The Flintstones and Scooby-Doo. The animation veteran is survived by his wife actress B.J. Ward, whom he wed in 1995, in addition to his daughters Helen Hunt and Colleen Morrison Hunt. Photo: APEGA ABACA USA/PA Images

Zsa Zsa Gabor - December 18 Actress Zsa Zsa Gabor died after suffering a heart attack at the age of 99, her husband, Frederic von Anhalt, confirmed. The Hungarian-born legend passed away at home, surrounded by friends and family, Frederic told AFP. "Everybody was there. She didn't die alone," he revealed. The actress, who married at least eight times, was known for calling everybody "Dahlink" and for parading her wealth and post-divorce riches following high profile marriages to a string of men who included a Turkish diplomat, hotel heir Conrad Hilton, actor George Sanders, an oil magnate and a divorce lawyer. Ms. Gabor appeared in more than 50 television movies and feature films including Moulin Rouge in 1952. She also appeared on multiple television programs from talk shows to game shows through the1990s, including the 1960s TV series Batman. She was famous for her quotes, such as, "I never hated a man enough to give him his diamonds back," and "I am a marvellous housekeeper. Every time I leave a man, I keep his house." Photo: Getty Images

Alan Thicke - December 13 America's favorite TV dad Alan Thicke passed away at the age of 69. His rep confirmed that the Growing Pains star died at a California hospital after suffering a heart attack while playing a game of hockey with this 19-year-old son Carter. The Canadian actor was famous for his roles in Growing Pains and more recently Netflix's Fuller House, as well as his talent in music composition. Alan's son Robin took to his Instagram to reflect on his love for his late father. “My Father passed away today,” the Blurred Lines singer captioned the post. “He was the best man I ever knew. The best friend I ever had. Let’s all rejoice and celebrate the joy he brought to every room he was in. We love you Alan Thicke. Thank you for your love. Love, your grateful son.” Alan is survived by his wife Tanya and three sons Brennan, Robin and Carter. Photo: Gabriel Olsen/FilmMagic

Peter Vaughan - December 6 The actor known recently for his role as Maester Aemon on the hit HBO series Game of Thrones died at age 93. Peter's agent Sally Long-Innes confirmed the news in a statement that said: "This is to confirm that very sadly Peter Vaughan passed away at approximately 10.30 this morning. He died peacefully with his family around him." Throughout his 75-year career the actor, who was partially blind, worked alongside the likes of Frank Sinatra and Ronnie Barker. Peter also had roles on the TV shows Citizen Smith, Porridge and Chancer. Photo: Dave Hogan/Getty Images

Keo Woolford - November 28 The actor of the CBS TV series Hawaii Five-O sadly passed away at the age of 49. Keo's, who played Detective James Chang on the CBS series, publicist confirmed to the Hollywood Reporter that he died in a hospital in Oahu, Hawaii, three days after suffering a "severe" stroke. At the time of his death, Keo was working on the sequel to his 2013 film, The Haumana, which he wrote, directed and produced. Photo: Tibrina Hobson/Getty Images

Ron Glass - November 26 Emmy-award nominee Ron Glass has sadly passed away aged 71. The actor, who was best known for roles including Ron Harris in cop comedy Barney Miller and Sheppard Derrial Brook in sci-fi show Firefly, passed away from respiratory failure on Saturday. His agent, Jeffrey Leavett, confirmed the sad news to The Associated Press. He said: "Ron was a private, gentle and caring man. He was an absolute delight to watch on screen. Words cannot adequately express my sorrow. " Former colleagues of the actor took to Twitter to pay tribute. Samuel L. Jackson wrote: "It was an Honor & a Pleasure to work with the Amazing Ron Glass! RIP, Sir!" while Agents of SHIELD actor Clark Gregg spoke about their time together on the sci-fi show, in which Ron was a guest star, writing: "Thank you to the legend #RonGlass for bringing Phil back & for answering 1000 geeky questions about #BarneyMIller & #Firefly #RIP." Photo: WireImage

Florence Henderson- November 24 Florence Henderson, known to millions of TV viewers for her role as matriarch Carol Brady in The Brady Bunch, passed away at the age of 82 on Thanksgiving Day. The star died at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in in Los Angeles, one day after being admitted, her representative confirmed. First airing in 1969, The Brady Bunch – which followed two single parents with children who married to make a 'blended' family – made Florence a household name. It clearly resonated with audiences, and returned to TV in various forms, including The Brady Bunch Hour in 1977, The Brady Brides in 1981 and The Bradys in 1990. "It represents what people always wanted: a loving family," Florence said in 1999. "It's such a gentle, innocent, sweet show, and I guess it proved there's always an audience for that." Photos: Getty Images

Lisa Lynn Masters - November 15 The actress known for her roles on Unbreakable Kimmy and Ugly Betty died at age 52. Lisa was found dead inside her hotel room in Lima, Peru, where she was reportedly taking part in a modeling event. According to a local Peruvian media outlet, the actress took her own life. In a statement, Lisa's representative said, "In these darkening days, we hope those who have had the pleasure of knowing her will see how brightly she shined and will find that light within themselves and continue to share it with others – just as she would have." Following the news of her death, a GoFundMe page was set up by Ani Mason, who created the page on the behalf of Lisa's husband William Brooks. "Lisa's genuine warmth, generosity and tenacious strength will be deeply missed," Ani penned on the site. "Lisa's beloved husband William is shocked and grieving her sudden loss." Photo: Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic

Robert Vaughn - November 11 The actor best known for his role in Man from U.N.C.L.E., has sadly died aged 83. Robert, who also starred in the Magnificent Seven along with roles in Hustle and Murder, She Wrote, passed away after a brief battle from acute leukaemia. The star's manager Matthew Sullivan confirmed the sad news, telling the BBC that Robert died surrounded by family on Friday morning. Photo: Getty Images

Leonard Cohen - November 10 One of the world's most visionary artists, Leonard Cohen, died at the age of 82. No details were given on his cause of death, but Leonard's passing was revealed on his Facebook page. "We have lost one of music's most revered and prolific visionaries," the post said, and indicated that a memorial for the Montreal-born musician will take place at a later date. "Unmatched in his creativity, insight and crippling candour, Leonard Cohen was a true visionary whose voice will be sorely missed," said Leonard's manager, Robert Kory, in a statement. The singer-songwriter, poet and novelist known for his growling vocals and provocative lyrics released his latest album, the highly acclaimed You Want It Darker, in October of this year. That month, the father of two – whose son produced his last album from home while the singer's health was waning – told the New Yorker that he didn't fear the end. "I am ready to die," he said. "I hope it’s not too uncomfortable. That’s about it for me."

Dylan Rieder - October 12 The pro skateboarder and model died of complications from leukemia at the age of 28. Dylan's manager confirmed the news to Jenkem Magazine saying, "Today, October 12th, 2016, surrounded by family and friends, Dylan Joseph Rieder passed away due to complications with Leukemia. His passion for life, art, music, fashion and skateboarding has always been contagious." Model Cara Delevingne mourned the loss of her friend with a special tribute on Instagram. Sharing a photo of herself with Dylan she penned, "One of the kindest, most down to down, incredible human beings I have ever encountered. You will be so missed by so many people. Ride and Rest In Peace Dylan Rieder." Photo: Instagram/@swankfuck_inc

Tommy Ford - October 12 Tommy, who is best known for playing Tommy Strawn on the popular '90s sitcom Martin died at age 52. According to TMZ, the actor, had been on life support after an aneurysm ruptured in his abdomen. Tommy's family confirmed his passing on social media with a statement, which read: "To all family and friends of Tommy Ford. We would like to inform everyone that our brother passed away today October 12, 2016 surrounded by his loving family." The statement continued, "Please keep his family in your prayers as they go through this challenging time. He was so dearly loved by so many and for that lets all be grateful for a life well served." Photo: Instagram/@bigtommyford

Arnold Palmer - September 25 Arnold Palmer, also known as "The King of Golf", passed away at the age of 87. According to a statement from his company, the golf great died on Sunday in a Pittsburgh hospital while awaiting cardiac surgery. During the span of his career, Arnold won over 90 tournaments, including four wins at the Masters, the 1960 US Open and The British Open in 1961 and 1962. The sporting legend is survived by his wife Kit, his two daughters, six grandchildren and a host of great-grandchildren. Photo: Getty Images

Jose Fernandez - September 25 At just 24, Miami Marlins star pitcher Jose Fernandez was killed in a boating accident in Miami. Jose and two other men lost their lives when the 32ft boat they were traveling in crashed into rocks at full speed. Jose, who immigrated to the United States from Cuba in 2008, was known for his vibrant personality and his fastball. In a sad twist, Jose was to be a father; just days before he lost his life, Jose posted a photo of his girlfriend Carla Mendoza, showing off her baby bump. Photo: Instagram/@jofez16

Bill Nunn - September 24 Bill Nunn, the actor who was known for his role as Radio Raheem in the Spike Lee film Do the Right Thing died at the age of 62 in his hometown of Pittsburgh. On Saturday, the actor's good friend and fellow Morehouse alum Spike Lee took to his Instagram to share the news with fans. "My Dear Friend, My Dear Morehouse Brother- Da Great Actor Bill Nunn As Most Of You Know Him As Radio Raheem Passed Away This Morning In His Hometown Of Pittsburgh," the director captioned a photo of Bill as Radio Raheem in part on his Instagram. "Long Live Bill NUNN. RADIO RAHEEM Is Now RESTING IN POWER. RADIO RAHEEM WILL ALWAYS BE FIGHTING DA POWERS DAT BE. MAY GOD WATCH OVER BILL NUNN." Bill also appeared in New Jack City, Sister Act and the USA comedy series Sirens. Photo: Getty Images

Charmain Carr - September 17 The actress who is best known as playing Liesl von Trapp in The Sound of Music died at age 73 in Los Angeles after complications from a rare form of dementia. Charmain's representative confirmed the sad news. The actress's onscreen sister Kym Karath, who played Gretl, the youngest of the von Trapp children took to Twitter to express her sadness. She tweeted, "It is with infinite sadness that I share the tragic news that the precious & exquisite Charmian Carr, beautiful Liesl, has passed away." Likewise, Twentieth Century Fox also shared a touching message, writing, "The Sound of Music lost a beloved member of the family w/ the passing of Charmian Carr. She will be forever missed." Photo: Valerie Macon/Getty Images

Alexis Arquette - September 11 The transgender actress died on Sunday from a cause that is unknown at the age of 47. Her brother Richmond confirmed the news on Facebook writing, "Our brother Robert, who became our brother Alexis, who became our sister Alexis, who became our brother Alexis, passed this morning September 11, at 12:32 am. He was surrounded by all of his brothers and sisters, one of his nieces and several other loved ones. We were playing music for him and he passed during David Bowie's Starman. As per his wishes, we cheered at the moment that he transitioned to another dimension." Her sister Patricia also tweeted early Sunday morning the Starman video with the caption, "Breaking through the veil singing Starman." After, she shared another tweet: "Cosmic Dancer" by T.Rex, adding, "To My first best friend – Cosmic Dancer". Alexis' younger brother David also wrote on Twitter: "Thank you all for your love and kind words about Alexis. My hero for eternity." Photo: FilmMagic

Gene Wilder - August 28
The Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory star passed away at the age of 83. Gene's family confirmed with the Associated Press that he died late Sunday afternoon at his Stamford, Connecticut home after dealing with complications from Alzheimer's disease. The comedian was also known for his roles in Blazing Saddles and Young Frankenstein.
Photo: Getty Images

Sonia Rykiel - August 25
French fashion designer Sonia Rykiel, 86, died at home after a long illness. Sonia's daughter Nathalie, who is also the managing artistic director of the Queen of Knitwear's famous label, released a simple statement that read: "My mother died at 5:00 this morning at her home in Paris from the effects of Parkinson's."

Photo: Getty Images

Steven Hill - August 23
The Emmy-nominated actor passed away at age 94 in Manhattan.
Steven was best known for his roles on the TV seriesMission: Impossible and Law & Order. The actor's daughter, Sarah Gobioff, confirmed her father's passing to the New York Times.

Photo: Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images

Bill Cunningham - June 25
New York Times fashion and street style photographer Bill Cunningham passed away aged 87.
The sad news was confirmed by his assistant that posted a picture of the pohotgrapher on Instagram and said, "William John Cunningham, the genius who created the art of street photography and had the most singular eye in fashion, died this afternoon from the complication following a stroke. In these last days as Bill was fighting to recover, I told him of all of your good wishes and expressions of love. There are no words for this loss. Bill Cunningham 1929-2016."
Photo: Getty Images

Anton Yelchin: June 19
The Star Trek star was killed by his car in a freak accident. The Russian actor's body was found pinned between the car and his California house gate. Since his untimely death, a slew of stars have paid tribute to their late co-star and friend. JJ Abrams, who directed Anton in two Star Trek movies, wrote, "Anton, you were brilliant. You were kind, you were funny as hell, and supremely talented. And you weren't here nearly long enough. Missing you… JJ."

Actress Anna Kendrick tweeted, "This is unreal. Anton Yelchin is such a talent. Such a huge loss," while Olivia Wilde, who worked with Anton in Alpha Dog, penned, "Anton Yelchin was a bright, brilliant talent, and a truly kind person, I was so taken by him and I won't ever forget his sweet smile. RIP."

Photo: Tommaso Boddi/WireImage

Prince Be: June 17
The rapper Attrell Cordes died of renal kidney disease in his native New Jersey. The singer is best known as "Prince Be" from the '90s R&B duo P.M. Dawn, which he started with his brother Jarett Cordes in 1988.

A post on the pair's Facebook page read, "Prince Be Rest In Peace forever more, Pain from Diabetes can't harm you anymore, My Heart is at Peace B-Cuz U suffered so long, Tell Grandma I said Hi & Stay Blisstatic & Strong."

Prince Be is survived by his wife Mary Cordes and three children: Christian, Mia and Brandon.

Photo: Tim Mosenfelder/Getty Images

Ron Lester: June 17
Varsity Blues actor Ron Lester passed away after battling liver and kidney problems. The actor's agent confirmed the news on his Facebook page saying that the star was not in pain and that his fiancé was with him.
Ron became famous for his role as Billy Bob in the 1999 film Varsity Blues, but more recently starred in CSI: NY and the upcoming film Bomb City.
Photo: Getty Images

Ann Morgan Guilbert: June 14
The actress best known for her roles on The Dick Van Dyke Show and The Nanny lost her battle with cancer at age 87. Ann's daughter, Nora Eckstein, confirmed the news to the AP saying her mother had passed in Los Angeles.

The Minnesota native graduated from Stanford University's Department of Speech and Drama and went on to secure a number of guest roles on beloved sitcoms like I Dream of Jeannie, The Partridge Family and Cheers. Following the news of her death, Ann's former The Nanny co-star, Fran Drescher, tweeted, "Such a great actress! I thank you Annie. Thank you for all the laughs! May you be cracking them up in heaven!"

She is survived by her two daughters, Nora and and former Lizzie McGuire actress Hallie Todd.

Photo: Randall Michelson/WireImage

Christina Grimmie: June 10
Singer Christina passed away at the age of 22, after she was shot outside her concert in Orlando, Florida. The singer was taken to hospital following the incident, but later died from her gunshot wounds.
Christina rose to fame when she competed in season six of the TV show The Voice. The singer was mentored by Maroon 5 frontman Adam Levine and came in third place.
Photo: Getty Images

Muhammad Ali: June 3
The "Greatest of All Time" boxer died at age 74 surrounded by his family. Muhammad passed away at a hospital in Phoenix, Arizona after battling Parkinson's disease for three decades.

Following his death, Ali's daughter Hana Ali tweeted that her father was a "Humble Mountain." She added, "And now he has gone home to God. God bless you daddy. YOU ARE THE LOVE OF MY LIFE!"

Born Cassius Clay in 1942, the Kentucky native was given the name Muhammad Ali after converting to Islam. The legend began amateur boxing at age 12 and in 1964 became a heavyweight champion.
Asked toward the end of his life how he would like to be remembered, he replied, "He took a few cups of love, one teaspoon of patience, one tablespoon of generosity, one pint of kindness, and stirred it up well and served to each and every deserving person."
Photo: Harry Benson/Express/Hulton Archive/Getty Images

Prince: April 21
The world was shocked and saddened by the news that Prince had died aged 57. The iconic singer was found at his Paisley Park estate in Minnesota on April 21. He sold more than 100 million records during his career, including the huge hit albums 1999, Purple Rain and Sign O' the Times.

His death had a profound impact on family, friends and fans across the world. Madonna, Justin Timberlake and Katy Perry were among those paying tribute to the star, while across the globe landmarks and venues were turned purple in his memory.

Photo: Getty Images

Chyna: April 21
The world of WWE wrestling was shocked when it was announced that female star Chyna had died. The 45-year-old passed away in her Redondo Beach apartment.

A statement posted on her website read: "It is with deep sadness to inform you that we lost a true icon, a real life superhero. Joanie Laurer aka Chyna, the 9th wonder of the world, has passed away."

Following the shocking news, many members from the wrestling world took to their social media pages to pay tribute to the star. Stephanie McMahon of WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) posted: "She was truly a pioneer in our industry, and she will be missed. #RIPChyna."

Photo: Getty Images

Doris Roberts: April 17
Everybody Loves Raymond star Doris Roberts died in her sleep at age 90. The actress was best known for playing meddling mother Marie Barone in the sitcom, for which she won four Emmy awards.

Following the news of her death, her heartbroken former co-stars paid tribute, with on-screen son Ray Romano saying Doris had "an energy and spirit that amazed me".

"She never stopped," he said. "Whether working professionally or with her many charities, or just nurturing and mentoring a green young comic trying to make it as an actor, she did everything with such a grand love for life and people and I will miss her dearly."

Photo: Getty Images

David Gest: April 12
In April also came the news that David Gest had passed away at the age of 62. The producer and reality star – a former husband of Liza Minnelli and childhood friend of Michael Jackson – died at the Four Seasons hotel in Canary Wharf, London.

His close friend and ex-bodyguard Imad Handi confirmed his death, describing him as a "huge talent". "David was truly larger than life. He was not just a huge talent and a dear friend but a showbiz icon," he said.

"I know he will be missed by millions of fans around the world, and particularly in Britain, who came to love his charm and blistering one-liners."

Photo: Getty Images

Patty Duke: March 29
Patty Duke passed away at the age of 69. She was an acclaimed actress; as well as an Academy Award, which she won for her role as Helen Keller in 1962 film The Miracle Worker, she received three Emmys and two Golden Globes in the course of her career. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 1982, she was also a prominent campaigner for mental health awareness.

Her son, Lord of the Rings star Sean Astin, paid a touching tribute to his mother. Alongside a photo of Patty holding him as a baby, he shared a heartfelt message that read: "I love you mom."

Photo: Getty Images

Garry Shandling: March 24
Steve Martin, Judd Apatow and Ricky Gervais were among the stars to pay tribute to the late comedian after his untimely death at the age of 66.

The star, best known for The Larry Sanders Show and It's Garry Shandling's Show, died of an apparent heart attack.

Photo: Getty Images

Joey Feek: March 4
The Joey + Rory singer lost her battle with cervical cancer on March 4 at just 40 years old. Her death was announced by her husband Rory on the couple's blog 'This Life I Live.'

"My wife’s greatest dream came true today. She is in Heaven. The cancer is gone, the pain has ceased and all her tears are dry. Joey is in the arms of her beloved brother Justin and using her pretty voice to sing for her savior."

Joey and Rory shot to fame in 2008 after appearing on CMT'S Can You Duet. After coming in third in the competition, the couple went on to release their debut album The Life of A Song and released several hit singles.

Photo: Getty Images

Cara McCollum: February 22
Former Miss New Jersey Cara McCollum died on the morning on February 22 at 24. The news of her death came seven days after the beauty queen sustained serious injuries in a serious car accident.

Cara took the crown for Miss New Jersey in 2013 and used her role to promote literacy among inner-city children. The Princeton graduate went on to compete for the title of Miss America in 2014.

Photo: Getty Images

Harper Lee: February 19
President Barack Obama led the tributes to Harper Lee following her death at the age of 89. He said that the incredibly talented writer had "changed America for the better" with her first ever novel, To Kill a Mockingbird, which sold more than 40 million copies and became one of the most beloved and most taught pieces of fiction ever written.

"When Harper Lee sat down to write To Kill a Mockingbird, she wasn't seeking awards or fame. She was a country girl who just wanted to tell an honest story about life as she saw it," the Obama family said in a statement.

"But what that one story did, more powerfully than one hundred speeches possibly could, was change the way we saw each other, and then the way we saw ourselves."

Photo: Getty Images

Glenn Frey: January 18
Songwriter, guitarist and founding member of The Eagles, Glenn Frey passed away at the age of 67.

A statement posted on the band's website read: “Glenn fought a courageous battle for the past several weeks but, sadly, succumbed to complications from rheumatoid arthritis, acute ulcerative colitis and pneumonia.”

Following his death the remaining members of the band played a tribute to the late star at the Grammy Awards. The group delivered a poignant version of the song “Take It Easy.”

Photo: Getty Images

Alan Rickman: January 14
In January came the sad news of 69-year-old Alan Rickman's death after a cancer battle. Among those who paid tribute to Alan following his passing was his dear friend Emma Thompson, who described him as "the finest of actors and directors" and "the ultimate ally".

"He was, above all things, a rare and unique human being and we shall not see his like again," she added.

Photo: Getty Images

René Angélil: January 14
Celine Dion was by her beloved husband René Angélil’s side when he passed away after losing his battle with cancer. The 73-year-old had fought the disease for 16 years.

A few days after his death, Celine paid an emotional tribute to René; the devoted couple were married for 21 years and had three children together, René-Charles, Nelson and Eddy.

"He will be remembered as a gentle man, generous and kind, an unprecedented visionary, a modern Pygmalion, a Renaissance man," she wrote on Facebook. "All who had the privilege of knowing him and of working closely with him, whether personally or professionally, salute a leader and a man of great intelligence and wisdom."

Photo: Getty Images

Natalie Cole: December 31, 2015
The iconic R&B and jazz star died at the age of 65 on New Year's Eve at a hospital in Los Angeles, with her death announced on the first day of 2016.

The singer's representative revealed that the star died due to heart failure caused by lung disease. “Natalie fought a fierce, courageous battle, dying how she lived … with dignity, strength and honor.”

The artist was the daughter of the late, great Nat King Cole and celebrated several top ten hits including This Will Be and Unforgettable.

Photo: Getty Images

David Bowie: January 10
Music lost a true icon on when David Bowie passed away after a secret battle with cancer. His heartbroken son Duncan Jones confirmed the news, and a statement was later posted on 69-year-old David's official Facebook, Instagram and Twitter accounts.

"David Bowie died peacefully today surrounded by his family after a courageous 18 month battle with cancer," it read. "While many of you will share in this loss, we ask that you respect the family's privacy during their time of grief."

Photo: Getty Images