Where Hope Lives

From Left: Koreanet / Flickr | Focus on the Family | Jntracy75 / wikimedia
The past year 2025 marked the passing of leaders whose voices shaped worship, theology, family life, and public witness across the Christian world—among them Pope Francis, Voddie Baucham, James Dobson, John MacArthur, Jimmy Swaggart, Russell M. Nelson, and Morris Chapman. Their ministries stirred both devotion and debate, spanning parish sanctuaries, university halls, airwaves, and global…

From Left: Gage Skidmore / Flickr | Public Domain
The year 2025 marked the passing of many influential figures whose lives had a profound impact on culture, entertainment, politics, and faith. From actors and musicians to activists and athletes, these individuals left legacies that continue to inspire. Some openly professed their Christian beliefs, while others wrestled with questions of faith throughout their journeys. As…

Public Domain
Former Vice President Dick Cheney, one of the most influential figures in American politics for over four decades, has passed away at the age of 81. His family shared that the former vice president “died last night, November 3, 2025,” surrounded by his wife Lynne, their daughters Liz and Mary, and other loved ones. The…

Left: Ovidiu Hrubaru / Shutterstock.com | Right: Nick Mangold
Former New York Jets great Nick Mangold, a fan favorite and locker-room leader, has died at 41 — just 12 days after revealing that he needed a kidney transplant. His passing comes as a shock to many who admired not only his talent on the field but also his kindness, humor, and faith-filled strength off…

Public Domain | Right: Southwestern Seminary / YouTube
Morris H. Chapman, a longtime Southern Baptist leader who guided the denomination through pivotal years of theological change and growth, passed away Monday at the age of 84—just weeks before his 85th birthday. “Morris Chapman led with passion and integrity,” said SBC Executive Committee President Jeff Iorg, as reported by Baptist Press. “He was a…

Jamiecat* / Flickr
The music world is mourning the loss of Paul Daniel “Ace” Frehley, the original “Spaceman” of Kiss, who passed away on Thursday in Morristown, New Jersey, at the age of 74. Known for his explosive guitar riffs, wild stage presence, and influence on generations of musicians, Frehley’s life was a mix of soaring highs, personal…

Ruven Afanador / commons.wikimedia.org
Hollywood and fans worldwide are mourning the loss of a true original. Diane Keaton, the Oscar-winning actress beloved for her unforgettable roles in “Annie Hall” and “The Godfather” films, has died at the age of 79. She leaves behind a legacy of groundbreaking performances, quirky charm, and a spirit that touched millions both inside and…

@loyolachicago / Instagram
Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, the beloved nun and chaplain who inspired millions with her faith, wisdom, and unshakable love of basketball, has passed away at the age of 106. Known simply as “Sister Jean,” she became a national sensation in her later years, but her influence reached far beyond the basketball court. Born Dolores Bertha…

vitrolphoto / Shutterstock.com
Dr. Jane Goodall, one of the most beloved figures in the world of science and conservation, has passed away at the age of 91. The Jane Goodall Institute announced Wednesday that she died of natural causes while in California on a speaking tour. “Dr. Goodall’s discoveries as an ethologist revolutionized science, and she was a…

Jeffrey D. Allred / commons.wikimedia.org
Russell Marion Nelson, a pioneering heart surgeon who became the 17th president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has gone home to be with the Lord after a long, accomplished life. Nelson died on September 27, 2025, at his home in Salt Lake City. He was 101, the oldest president in the…

More from Beliefnet and our partners