Della Reese has died at the age of 86. The singer and actress, who became an ordained minister in real life, is best known for playing a heavenly messenger on the CBS series “Touched By an Angel.”

• Singer, Television Host, Television Actress
  (1931–2017)

Louis Armstrong was a trumpeter, bandleader, singer, soloist, film star and comedian. Considered one of the most influential artists in jazz history, he is known for songs like "Star Dust," "La Via En Rose" and "What a Wonderful World."

• Singer, Trumpet Player
  (1901–1971)

American singer and guitarist Muddy Waters may have been born in Mississippi, but he defined Chicago blues with songs like "I'm Your Hoochie Coochie Man."

• Songwriter, Guitarist, Singer
  (1915–1983)

Performer Florence Mills captivated audiences during the Jazz Age and Harlem Renaissance, performing in shows such as 'Shuffle Along,' 'Plantation Revue' and 'Blackbirds.'

• Singer, Dancer
  (1896–1927)

Diahann Carroll is an actress of stage, screen and TV known for her show Julia and films such as I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.

• Television Actress, Theater Actress, Singer, Film Actress
  (1935–)

Jazz and blues vocalist Bessie Smith's powerful, soulful voice won her countless fans and earned her the title "Empress of the Blues."

• Singer
  (1894–1937)

Dorothy Dandridge was an American actress and popular singer. She is the first African-American woman to be nominated for an Academy Award for best actress.

• Film Actress, Classic Pin-Ups, Singer
  (1922–1965)

The National Trust for Historic Preservation named Nina Simone’s childhood home a national treasure; it was saved from demolition in 2016. The singer and Civil Rights activist experienced major mental health & financial issues before dying in France in 2003.

• Author, Civil Rights Activist, Singer, Pianist, Musician
  (1933–2003)