In Memoriam
GoFundMe launched after Outlawz rapper Young Noble dies at 47
Born Rufus Lee Cooper III, the 47-year-old artist from New Jersey reportedly died by suicide on July 4 in Atlanta.
The hip-hop community is mourning the loss of Young Noble, a founding member of the legendary rap group Outlawz.
Born Rufus Lee Cooper III, the 47-year-old artist from New Jersey reportedly died by suicide on July 4 in Atlanta. He leaves behind a legacy of raw lyricism, loyalty, and cultural impact.
About rapper Young Noble and Outlawz legacy
Young Noble was the final artist personally recruited by Tupac to join the Outlawz in 1996. He made his debut on the posthumous album The Don Killuminati: The 7 Day Theory, appearing on iconic tracks like “Hail Mary” and “Just Like Daddy.”
Over nearly three decades, he remained a torchbearer for Tupac’s vision, releasing solo projects and collaborative albums that resonated with fans of conscious, street-rooted hip-hop.
GoFundMe campaign created by family
In the wake of his passing, Noble’s family has launched an official GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral expenses and support their healing journey. At the date of the article, the fundraiser has raised over $7,000 towards its $22,000 goal.
“This is the official ‘GoFundMe’ from The Family of Rufus Lee ‘Young Noble’ Cooper III,” the campaign reads. “In this hour we ask for prayer. We ask that you understand Mental Health is real. Our Family and community request your support with our next moment in time.”
Community support for rapper Young Noble and his family
The news has sparked an outpouring of tributes from across the music world. Fellow Outlawz member E.D.I. Mean shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, writing, “My brother and partner for over 30 years took his life this morning. Rest in Power Rufus Young Noble Cooper… Mental illness is a real battle being fought by so many.” Artists like Snoop Dogg, Xzibit, and DJ Premier also expressed their condolences, underscoring the urgent need for mental health awareness in the Black community.
Young Noble’s final social media post, shared just days before his death, now reads like a haunting affirmation: “You’re going to make it. No matter what it looks like right now… You are next in line for your miracle.”
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. In the U.S., call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
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