While I disagree with Bowie, remember: Most adults in the US have done something in their lives that could be construed as a crime. The phrase "paid his/her debt to society" comes to mind. I see Angelou as rising above her past racism as she grew older, and yes, George Wallace did, but no one forgets his racist past. Bowie made a valid point, he sees Angelou in a different light than do I. His liberty to do so remains.
He has that liberty, it doesn't mean I have to agree with it or does his liberty over ride my liberty to disagree with him?
When he dies...should we simply remember him as a racist felon and insult his life before his body even gets cold?
He is a felon. Period. He has proven that his moral compass points South. His attitude and vitriol proves that he has not changed. He is a nasty, bitter, hateful man who has and is still capable of committing felonies.