Remembering the Women We Lost in 2016

As we say goodbye to 2016, let's take a moment to also remember the kickass women who are unfortunately no longer with us. For some they were role models, an inspiration... and all of them had an audience that is going to miss them dearly.

Jayalalithaa

Photo Credit: thalatamil.com

The beloved 'Amma' left thousands in tears, literally, when the news of her demise hit the public. She was not just any Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, she was loved and respected by most for her work towards, women, children and the poor. She had more to her than just her political career, to which she was introduced much later.

A former actress, and a feminist, she had quite the fan following when she performed on-screen, and a formidable fan following when she entered politics.

Daughter to the famous Tamil Actress Sandhya, Jayalalithaa was coaxed into this profession when she actually wanted to grow up to be a lawyer. Struggling through months of illness, Amma said good on December 6th, 2016.

ALSO READ: Jayalalithaa’s Legacy: Her Departure Leaves The Battlefield Less Spirited

Alexis Arquette

An actor, cabaret performer, activist, Alexis lost a battle to complications related to AIDS. Known for her gender transitioning, Alexis was a voice and support for many who are discriminated against for their personal choices.

Photo Credit: Rolling Stone

Her siblings released a statement post her death that read:

“Alexis was born as Robert, our brother,” part of the statement read. “We loved him the moment he arrived. But he came in as more than a sibling — he came as our great teacher. As Alexis transitioned into being a woman, she taught us tolerance and acceptance. As she moved through her process, she became our sister, teaching us what real love is.”

Carrie Fisher

Succumbing to a heart attack at the age of 60, Carrie Fisher joined the Force, some would say. An actress, author, role model, inspiration to pretty much everyone, especially the generation that grew up watching Star Wars and falling in love with the badass princess Leia, she sure will be missed deeply.

Carrie Fisher -- Princess Leia in Star Wars (Photo Credit: Ink Tank)

"You know what's funny about death? I mean other than absolutely nothing at all? You'd think we could remember finding out we weren't immortal. Sometimes I see children sobbing in airports and I think, 'Aww, they've just been told.'"

ALSO READ: Annus Horribilis Claims Carrie Fisher

Debbie Reynolds

Mother to Carrie Fisher, Debbie left us all just one day after the news of Fisher's death.

Her last words reportedly were, "I want to be with Carrie."

Rocking the screens in the '50s, Debbie was shared a beautiful relationship with her daughter through thick and thin. Known best for the 1952 classic, Singin' in the Rain, Debbie was also known for her previous big hit Two Weeks with Love in the year 1950.

Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher (Photo Credit: The Denver Post)

ALSO READ: Debbie Reynolds Dies a Day After Beloved Daughter Carrie Fisher

Feature Image Courtesy: Recode