Covid - 19 Statement

Barbara Washington passed away on July 12, 2026. She was predeceased by her husband, William H. Washington, parents and son, Harvey D. Harrod. She is survived by her sons, Frederick Harrod III (Ruth) and Ricardo (Ricky) Washington (Rena); daughters, Lydia Newman, Beverly (Bunnie) Baker (Wayne), Joyce Campbell, and Marita Lumley; and daughter-in-law, Mirta Harrod; grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchild, nieces, nephews, cousins, many loving relatives and dear friends. .

On Wednesday July 22, 2026, son of the late John Albert and Marian Virginia White. He was predeceased by his brother, David White. Survivors include his sister Carol Rolling and brother John White; a host of other relatives and friends.       .

August 3, 2026 Dear Howard University Community,  It is with profound sadness that I share the passing of our esteemed colleague, educator, alumna, and Professor Emerita, Joan C. Payne, Ph.D., whose lifelong commitment to Howard University, groundbreaking scholarship, and dedication to generations of students have left an enduring legacy.  Dr. Payne's Howard journey began in 1968 as a student in the School of Communications, where she earned her degree ...

  Obituary information to follow. .

William Decosta Riley, Jr., affectionately known as “Bill” was born on November 9, 1935, in Philadelphia, PA, to the late William Decosta Riley, Sr. and the late Eva Cecelia (Miller) Riley.  He peacefully transitioned from this earthly life on July 16, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, wisdom, and unconditional love. Bill began his educational journey in the Philadelphia Public School System. Following his graduation from high school, he proudly answered ...

Ann Elizabeth Houston (Taylor) passed on July 24, 2026. She was born to James and Helen Taylor on February 13, 1931, in Washington DC. She graduated from Dunbar High school in 1948. Attending Minor's Teachers College for her bachelor's degree, she then received her master's degree in education from NYU. Ann spent 30 years as an educator within the DC Public School system, most notably River Terrace Elementary.  

Gail Maria Smith-Nyachowe peacefully went home to be with our Heavenly Father on Sunday, July 5, 2026, surrounded by her beloved family, following a courageous battle with cancer.  Gail was born on April 10, 1958, in Washington, D.C., at Providence Hospital.  She was the middle child of the late Raymond Montague Smith, Sr. and Leola Melvina Smith.  Raised in Washington, DC, she attended St. Gabriel Catholic Elementary School. Gail treasured her childhood years and had fond ...

John Cartwright Davis, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. John was a lifelong learner, public servant, entrepreneur, and a man known for his warmth, humor, steadfast perseverance, and generosity.  John was born on May 29, 1939, in Washington, D.C., and passed away peacefully on June 29, 2026.  In his early twenties, after the death of parents, he worked to support himself and his younger brother while pursuing higher ...

  On Thursday, July 2, 2026, Jacquelin W. Wilson transitioned. She was the daughter of the late Bartonia Crawley and Joseph C. Woodward; widow of the late Jacques A. Wilson; devoted mother of William A. "Tony" Hill; sister to the late Joseph C. Woodward; and sister in-law of Iantha Woodward. She is also survived by a host of Woodward and Robinson cousins, other family and friends.

  It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Alyce Femister Gaither. She passed away June 30, 2026. Born on May 27, 1935, in Washington, D.C., Alyce was the beloved mother of Charles Gaither, Jr. (Megan) and Maia Alees Gaither. Alyce is also survived by her siblings, Carolyn Dowdle, Howard Contee Jr., David Contee, and Daniel Contee; her grandchildren Ava Rose Walton, William "BeBe" Walton IV; and special niece Nicole Cooper. She was preceded in death by her ...