2016 has been a very eventful year in the entertainment industry. The world lost many great individuals who entertained us though films, television, and music and acted as advocates for various causes and organizations. The following men and women, as well as numerous others who left us in 2016, shared words of wisdom that can and should be shared for generations to come.

David Bowie January 8, 1947- January 10, 2016

David Bowie's talent, not only as a songwriter and singer, but as an actor, led him to quickly become a fan favorite. His creativity and expression will be difficult to match.

I don't know where I'm going from here, but I promise it won't be boring. -David Bowie

Alan Rickman February 21, 1946 - January 14, 2016

Known primarily for his role as Severus Snape in the Harry Potter film series, Rickman made several other film appearances in films such as Robin Hood":Prince of Thieves, and Something the Lord Made. His ability to portray a wide variety of characters made him one of the greatest actors of this generation.

I do take my work seriously and the way to do that is to not take yourself too seriously. -Alan Rickman

Merl Haggard April 6,1937 - April 6, 2016

Known for pioneering country music as we know it today, all of Nashville mourned the day that Merl Haggard died. His outlaw attitude has inspired many country artists, even today.

We need to have music that contributes to the well-being of the spirit. Music that cradles peoples lives and makes things a little easier. That's what I try to do, and what I want to do. You don't want to close the door on hope. -Merl Haggard

Doris Roberts November 4, 1925 – April 17, 2016

Roberts, know mainly for her role as Ray's mother on Everybody Loves Raymond made several other film and television appearances such as Grandma Frances in National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation.

With my talent, I can make people laugh and give them another attitude about life. What a blessing that is for me. -Doris Roberts

Prince June 7, 1958 - April, 21 2016

Prince was incredibly talented, not only as a musician, but as an actor. This 80's heartthrob was loved by many and will be greatly missed.

Every day I feel is a blessing from God. And I consider it a new beginning. Yeah, everything is beautiful. -Prince

Gene Wilder June 11, 1933 - August 29, 2016

Famous for his unforgettable performance as Willy Wonka in Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factor, Wilder's comedic talent kept us laughing for years. Wilder's desire to please his fans, including not wanting to make people sad with the news of illness, is something we can all learn from.

I love acting, especially if it's a fantasy of some kind, where it's not just realistic, it's not naturalism. -Gene Wilder

Carrie Fisher October 21, 1956- December 27 2016

Her portrayal of Princess/General Leia Organa in the Star Warsfilm series delighted many for generations. Her sudden passing at the age of 60, definitely came as a shock.

If my life wasn't funny it would just be true, and that is unacceptable. -Carrie Fisher

Debbie Reynolds April 1, 1932- December 28, 2016

Passing away only one day after her daughter, Carrie Fisher, Debbie Reynolds was known for her roles in iconic films such as Singin' in the Rain and This Happy Feeling. Her talents as a singer and performer will be difficult to replicate.

I gave it all that I had, and it's gratifying that others seem to be receiving it so well. -Debbie Reynolds

Some of the world's greatest musicians and actors left us in 2016. Their talent however, still lives on through their music and films. R.I.P