According to Essence Magazine, Clarence O. Smith, one of its four founding pioneers, passed away on April 21 at the age of 92.
Smith helped to launch Essence in 1970 and shaped its legacy for over three decades.
As president of Essence Communications, he led marketing efforts that established the “Black Women’s Market,” revolutionizing how advertisers viewed and valued Black audiences.
His leadership expanded Essence into an empire — including the ESSENCE Festival of Culture, the nation’s largest Black gathering.
Former Editor-in-Chief Susan L. Taylor called him “a mighty mind,” crediting his vision with shifting hearts, minds, and investment.
Smith is survived by his wife Elaine and family.
Rest in peace, Clarence O. Smith.
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