Johanna Lindsey (1952–2019), bestselling romance novelist

Johanna Lindsey was the bestselling author of more than 50 romance novels. She often wrote historical romances, with settings including medieval England, Viking-era Norway, the American Wild West, and Regency England. Some strayed from the historical pattern, including a time-travel series and a futuristic series set in outer space. Lindsey’s books were dismissed by some as bodice-rippers, but they were wildly and beloved by her readers and sold more than 60 million copies. Her titles included "Savage Thunder," "Captive of My Desires," "Once a Princess," and her most recent, 2019's "Temptation's Darling." Several of her novels featured cover model Fabio, including 1987’s “Hearts Aflame,” an early career hit for the young model.

John Conyers (1929–2019), longest-serving African American member of Congress in U.S. history

John Conyers was the longest-serving African American member of Congress in U.S. history. The former Democratic U.S. Representative from Michigan was a member of Congress from 1965 to 2017. During that time, he gained a reputation as a champion of civil rights and was a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus. He sponsored a bill to establish as a federal holiday.