Women We Lost in 2012

In 2012, we bid adieu to some amazing women. While some were trailblazers, others used their talents to make the world a better place.

Though they’re no longer with us, they left lasting legacies.

Helen Gurley Brown (90), Cosmopolitan Editor
Brown was Cosmopolitan magazine’s editor for 32 years. Circulation increased under her guidance – from 800,000 readers to nearly 3 million. Brown’s bold direction in Cosmopolitan gave single readers courage to thrive rather than settle.

Phyllis Diller (95), Stand-up Comedian
Queen of one-liners, Diller began her comedic career at age 37. The first famous female comedian, she was in more than two dozen movies and had her own TV show. Diller was the last from an era requiring women to look funny to be funny.

Nora Ephron (71), Movie Director and Writer
Ephron’s career began with a White House internship during JFK’s presidency. Movies she wrote and directed include Sleepless in Seattle and When Harry Met Sally. She was known for her sharp insight, wit and creating deep characters.

Whitney Houston (48), America’s Pop Diva
One of Seventeen magazine’s first female African American models, she became America’s first pop diva. Her hit singles include “How Will I Know” and “I Will Always Love You.” Her voice ranged three octaves. She won six Grammys, but, unfortunately, struggled with drugs and alcohol abuse.

Etta James (73), Music Legend
Known as “Miss Peaches,” James bridged the gap between rhythm and blues and rock and roll. The six-time Grammy Award Winner was inducted into the Rock & Roll, Blues and Grammy Halls of Fame. Most recognized for her signature hit, “At Last,” she watched Beyonce perform it during the presidential first dance in 2008.

Elinor Ostrom (78), Nobel Peace Prize Winner
Ostrom was the first woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize in economics. Discouraged from applying to graduate school, she fought to earn her Doctorate degree in political science. Indiana University initially hired her for being willing to teach a 7:30 a.m. class.

Sally Ride (61), First American Woman in Space
Ride became the first American woman in space after responding to a NASA ad. More than 42 other American women flew into space following her flight. The youngest American sent into space and the first female to make two trips, she was also a physicist and business owner.

Donna Summer (63), Disco Queen
Summer is remembered for her pulsing anthems. Raised on gospel music, she was a church choir soloist by age 10. She thrived during the disco era, becoming the only artist to have three consecutive double-LPs hit No. 1. Her hits include “Last Dance” and “Bad Girls.”

Bonus PINK Link: How you can leave a lasting legacy, too.

Who did you admire that we lost this year?

By Sarah Grace Alexander

“You only live once but if you do it right, once is enough.” Mae West