Though it’s a new year, that doesn’t mean we should forget the impactful lives we lost in 2018. Below are some of the influential people and cultural icons we will miss dearly.

Actors

• Verne Troyer, 49 — Actor and stunt performer Verne Troyer was best known for his role as Mini-Me in the Austin Powers movie franchise. He also had roles in Harry Potter and The Love Guru. Sadly, after battling alcohol addiction, he died by suicide in April. Read his obituary here.
• Reg E. Cathey, 59 — Emmy-winner, Reg E. Cathey was an actor known for his roles in House of Cards and The Wire. He passed away in his home at the age of 59. Read his obituary here.
• Margot Kidder, 69 — Margot Kidder, best known for her role as Lois Lane in Superman, passed away this past May. Throughout her career, she appeared in over 130 films and TV shows! Read her obituary here.
• Olivia Cole, 75 — Olivia Cole was best known for her Emmy-winning role as Matilda in the mini-series Roots. She passed away in her home from a heart attack on January 19. Read her obituary here.
• John Mahoney, 77 — Actor John Mahoney died on February 4 in hospice care. He was best known for his role as Martin Crane on Frasier. He also played Betty White’s love interest on Hot in Cleveland. Read his obituary here.
• Burt Reynolds, 82 — Smokey and the Bandit and Boogie Nights are just a couple of the films Burt Reynolds is known for. From heartthrob to tough guy to comedy, Burt did it all. He passed away this past September. Read his obituary here.

Athletes and Sports Figures

• Bruno Sammartino, 82 — Wrestling legend Bruno Sammartino died this past April. During his career, he became one of the strongest people in the world, bench pressing 565 pounds. Read his obituary here.
• Jim Taylor, 83 — Hall of Famer, Jim Taylor, was a Green Bay Packers legend. This fullback wasn’t the biggest guy, but he could hit! He passed away this past October. Read his obituary here.
• Ron Johnson, 71 — Ron Johnson was an All-Pro running back for the Giants. He was the first player in the team’s history to gain at least 1,000 rushing yards in a season. He passed away this November. Read his obituary here.
• Jeanne Ashworth, 80 — Jeanne Ashworth was the first American woman to win a speedskating medal in the Winter Olympics. Her time of 46.1 seconds won her a bronze medal. She passed away this past October. Read her obituary here.

Musicians

• Mac Miller, 26 — Mac Miller was a rapper and producer known for his intimate lyrics. He worked with notable artists such as SZA and Vince Staples. This summer, he released his fifth album Swimming. Tragically, he died of an apparent drug overdose a month later. Read his obituary here.
• Avicii, 28 — Tim Bergling, better known by his stage name Avicii was a famous Swedish DJ-producer. Some of his greatest hits were “Levels” and “Wake Me Up.” In order to find balance in his life, he stopped touring in 2016 but continued to make music. His died this past April by suicide. Read his obituary here.
• Dolores O’Riordan, 46 — Dolores O’Riordan was the lead singer of the Irish rock band The Cranberries. Some of their greatest hits were “Zombie” and “Linger.” She died unexpectedly on January 15. Read her obituary here.
• Aretha Franklin, 76 — The Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, left behind an unforgettable legacy. “Respect,” “Think”, and “Chain of Fools” only skim the surface of all of her hits. She passed away this past August. Read her obituary here.

Politicians

• George H.W. Bush, 94 — George H.W. Bush served as the 41st president of the United States and was the father of the 43rd, President George W. Bush. Along with being president, he was a decorated Navy pilot, a public servant for over 40 years, and helped end the Cold War. He died this past November at his home. Read his obituary here.
• Barbara Bush, 92 — First lady Barbara Bush passed away in April, a few months before her husband. She was a loyal and valuable asset to both her husband and son’s political careers. She also was an avid supporter of literacy and the civil rights movement. Read her obituary here.
• John McCain, 81 — John McCain served many roles. He was a presidential candidate, a senator, and a war hero. He earned the nickname “Maverick” for his bravery during his time as a POW in the Vietnam War and for standing his ground throughout his political career. Read his obituary here.

Public Figures, Activists, and Icons

• Kate Spade, 55 — Fashion icon and founder of the brand Kate Spade passed away this past June. She was known for her quirky and colorful designs that are a staple in many women’s wardrobes. Her family, friends, and fans were in dismay over her unexpected suicide. Read her obituary here.
• Anthony Bourdain, 61 — Anthony Bourdain was another life lost too soon to suicide this year. The world-famous chef was known for his book Kitchen Confidential and the hit TV show Parts Unknown. He also was an advocate for the #MeToo movement. Read his obituary here.
• Stephen Hawking, 76 — Thanks to theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking, we will never look at the universe the same. In 1988 he published “A Brief History of Time: From the Big Bang to Black Holes,” selling more than 10 million copies. The scientific community will forever be thankful for his discoveries. He passed away this past March after his long battle with ALS. Read his obituary here.
• Stan Lee, 95 — Stan Lee, known for his role in creating the Marvel Universe, lived a life of creativity. This pop culture icon is responsible for fan favorites such as Spider-Man and Iron Man. He also loved making cameos in Marvel movies! He passed away this past November. Read his obituary here.
• Stephen Hillenburg, 57 — Creator of the beloved children’s cartoon Spongebob Squarepants, Stephen Hillenburg passed away this past November. His unique sense of humor and creativity will continue to live through his work. He passed away this November after battling ALS. Read his obituary here.

Many of these lives were lost too soon to suicide. If you or anyone you know is struggling with depression or has suicidal thoughts, please seek help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-8255. They provide 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals.