Death is a part of life. It's a simple fact, but that doesn't make it any easier to deal with. Hollywood has taken an especially hard blow this year in this sad but inevitable truth. The world has mourned several times over with the passing of legends such as Prince, Merle Haggard, and David Bowie, and we're only halfway through the year. Lets take a moment to remember and honor these celebrities who changed and inspired so many lives.

1. Prince

(June 7, 1958 - April 21, 2016) It's hard to condense all that Prince did into one short paragraph, but I'll try my best. Since 1978 and the release of his first album, For You, he has shocked the music world with his eclectic style, strong vocals, and mastery of numerous instruments. He is ranked as one of the best-selling artists of all time with over 100 million records sold worldwide and rightfully so. If you don't get chills watching him perform live, you probably don't have a soul.

Song Suggestion: Nothing Comapres 2 U

2. Alan Rickman

(February 21, 1946 - January 14, 2016) Most famously known for his role as Severus Snape in the Harry Potter movie adaptations, Alan and his voice are iconic. Like most actors, Alan started out in theater productions and then made his way to the big screen. You may also know him Hans Gruber in Die Hard or as the voice of Absolem the Caterpillar in the 2010 version of Alice in Wonderland.

Movie Suggestion: Galaxy Quest

3. Merle Haggard

(April 6, 1937 - April 6, 2016) You pretty much can't talk about country music without mentioning the late, great Merle Haggard. He was relatable, writing about life and what he knew. People clung to the honesty of his lyrics and still do, which is why he is a legend not just in the country music world but in the music world as a whole.

Song Suggestion: Daddy Frank (The Guitar Man)

4. David Bowie

(January 8, 1947 - January 10, 2016) Bowie is legend for many reasons: his style, his innovative music, his alter ego (Ziggy Stardust) - just to name a few. He experimented with and shaped music the way he wanted to and found fame starting in the 70's with his alter ego and album The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars.

Song Suggestion: Heroes

5. Muhammad Ali

(January 17, 1942 - June 3, 2016) Born Cassius Clay, Ali changed his name in the 60's after he became a member of the Nation of Islam under the influence of Malcom X. Ali was more than a three time Heavyweight World Champion. He risked prison time when he refused to be drafted into the Vietnam War, becoming the first national figure to speak out against the war. He was a major civil rights leader in the U.S. and around the world. His inspiration is far reaching and won't see an end any time soon.

"If my mind can conceive it, and my heart can believe it - then I can achieve it."