Clarence O. Smith, Co-Founder of Essence Magazine, Dies at 92
Clarence O. Smith, one of the men behind Essence magazine, died on April 21 at the age of 92. He helped launch the magazine in 1970, and it quickly became a voice for the Black community—especially Black women.
Smith co-founded Essence with Edward Lewis, Cecil Hollingsworth, and Jonathan Blount in 1968. Their first issue came out two years later and grew into much more than a magazine. Under Smith’s leadership, Essence added the Essence Awards, Essence Television, and the Essence Festival of Culture, which draws thousands to New Orleans every July.
He spent more than 30 years at Essence, most of it as president, helping push the brand to invest in and speak directly to Black audiences. “We have lost a mighty mind, but not a legacy. It lives on,” said Susan L. Taylor, former editor-in-chief of the magazine.
Born in the Bronx in 1933, Smith served in the Army before becoming a businessman. He received several honors during his life, including the A.G. Gaston Lifetime Achievement Award. He is survived by his wife, Elaine, and their family.
