The high-profile case surrounding O.J. Simpson in the 1994 murders of his ex-wife and her companion sparked widespread debate across America about race and law enforcement. This so-called “trial of the century” caught the attention of many due to its blend of sports, crime, entertainment, and social class issues.

Despite being acquitted in the criminal proceedings, Simpson was later found liable in a civil case concerning the deaths of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ronald Goldman. After serving nine years in prison for unrelated crimes, his passing in April marked the end of a life heavily scrutinized due to the murder case.

Simpson’s story is just one among several prominent figures who passed away in 2024.

Alexei Navalny, a staunch opponent of Russian President Vladimir Putin, died in prison in February after opposing corruption and protesting against the government. Navalny had been detained since returning to Russia in 2021 following treatment in Germany for a nerve agent poisoning he claimed was orchestrated by the Kremlin.

Other notable political figures who died this year include Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, former Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney, former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, and many others from various countries and political backgrounds.

The year also saw the loss of several human rights advocates, including reverends and activists dedicated to civil rights and social justice.

In the business world, influential names like Indian entrepreneur Ratan Tata and Home Depot co-founder Bernard “Bernie” Marcus also left us this year.

In sports, Pete Rose, renowned for his record-breaking hits in baseball, passed away in September, his legacy overshadowed by previous gambling scandals. Other notable sports figures included basketball stars Jerry West and Dikembe Mutombo, as well as famous baseball players like Willie Mays.

The music industry mourned the loss of legendary producer Quincy Jones in November, known for his work on Michael Jackson’s iconic “Thriller” album, among many other contributions throughout his career.

Many artists and entertainers from various backgrounds also left a mark this year, including celebrated actors, musicians, filmmakers, authors, and influential personalities in television and poetry.

Below is a list of prominent individuals who passed away in 2024:

JANUARY

• Zvi Zamir, 98, former head of Israel’s Mossad, warned of impending attacks before the 1973 war. Jan. 2.
• Glynis Johns, 100, actress known for her role in “Mary Poppins” and her performances in theater. Jan. 4.
• David Soul, 80, actor and singer famous for “Starsky & Hutch” and his chart-topping ballads. Jan. 4.
• Franz Beckenbauer, 78, celebrated German football player and coach with a charming personality. Jan. 7.
• Joyce Randolph, 99, iconic actress known for her role in “The Honeymooners”. Jan. 13.
• Jack Burke Jr., 100, oldest living Masters champion recognized for his remarkable comeback. Jan. 19.
• Marlena Shaw, 81, jazz and R&B singer known for her hit “California Soul.” Jan. 19.
• Mary Weiss, 75, lead singer of 1960s group The Shangri-Las. Jan. 19.
• Gigi Riva, 79, all-time leading goalscorer for Italy. Jan. 22.
• Dexter Scott King, 62, civil rights advocate continuing his parents’ legacy. Jan. 22.
• Charles Osgood, 91, journalist and poet, hosted “CBS Sunday Morning” for over two decades. Jan. 23.
• Melanie, 76, folk singer and Woodstock performer famous for “Brand New Key.” Jan. 23.
• N. Scott Momaday, 89, Pulitzer Prize-winning author recognized for his Native American literature. Jan. 24.
• Herbert Coward, 85, actor known for “Deliverance.” Jan. 24 (car crash).
• Sandra Milo, 90, prominent Italian actress who influenced cinema. Jan. 29.
• Jean Carnahan, 90, first female Senator from Missouri. Jan. 30.
• Chita Rivera, 91, award-winning Broadway star influential in performing arts. Jan. 30.

FEBRUARY

• Carl Weathers, 76, former NFL linebacker…







Remembering Esteemed Figures Who Passed Away in Early 2023

• Burt Young, 83 – Renowned for his role as Apollo Creed’s rival-turned-friend in the “Rocky” films, he also shared the screen with Arnold Schwarzenegger in “Predator” and made an appearance as a golf instructor in “Happy Gilmore.” Died on February 1.
• Ian Lavender, 77 – Best known for his portrayal of a klutzy Home Guard soldier in the beloved British sitcom “Dad’s Army.” He passed on February 2.
• Hage Geingob, 82 – The founding prime minister and current president of Namibia, he played a crucial role in establishing one of Africa’s stable democracies after returning home from exile as an anti-apartheid activist. Died on February 4.
• Bob Beckwith, 91 – A former firefighter recognized for his symbolic photo with the president amid the devastation of September 11. He died on February 4.
• Toby Keith, 62 – A country music star famous for his patriotic songs, he was both praised and criticized for his work. He passed away from stomach cancer on February 5.
• John Bruton, 76 – An ex-Irish prime minister instrumental in establishing peace in Northern Ireland. He died on February 6.
• Sebastián Piñera, 74 – The former Chilean president dealt with significant social unrest and a pandemic during his second presidential term. He died on February 6 in a helicopter crash.
• Seiji Ozawa, 88 – A celebrated Japanese conductor known for his vibrant performances with the Boston Symphony Orchestra. He passed on February 6.
• Henry Fambrough, 85 – The last original member of the legendary R&B group The Spinners, famous for hits like “It’s a Shame.” He died on February 7.
• Robert Badinter, 95 – A prominent figure in France who advocated for the abolition of the death penalty and fought against antisemitism. He passed away on February 9.
• Bob Edwards, 76 – NPR’s “Morning Edition” anchor for nearly a quarter-century, providing news to many Americans. He died on February 10.
• Hirotake Yano, 80 – The founder of Daiso, which popularized Japan’s version of dollar stores. He passed away on February 12.
• Alexei Navalny, 47 – An outspoken critic of Russian President Putin, he led significant anti-corruption protests. He died on February 16.
• Lefty Driesell, 92 – A Hall of Fame basketball coach known for revitalizing several college basketball programs. He died on February 17.
• Hydeia Broadbent, 39 – An HIV/AIDS activist who gained fame as a child when she worked to destigmatize the virus. She died on February 20.
• Jacob Rothschild, 87 – A financier and philanthropist from the noted Rothschild“`html
  • Army Colonel, Medal of Honor recipient 70 years after being injured as he led a small group of outnumbered Army Rangers during the Korean War. Date of recognition: April 8.
  • O.J. Simpson, 76. Renowned football player and actor was acquitted of murdering his ex-wife and her friend but later found liable in a civil case. Date: April 10.
  • William Strickland, 87. Esteemed civil rights activist and advocate for the Black Power movement, he collaborated with Malcolm X and influential leaders during the 1960s. Date: April 10.
  • Robert MacNeil, 93. Established the straightforward PBS program “The MacNeil-Lehrer NewsHour” in the 1970s and co-hosted it with Jim Lehrer for 20 years. Date: April 12.
  • Faith Ringgold, 93. Celebrated author and artist known for her colorful quilts that combine painting, textiles, and narrative, paving the way for Black women in art. Date: April 12.
  • Carl Erskine, 97. A standout pitcher for the Brooklyn Dodgers boasting two no-hitters and achieving a 20-game winning season in 1953, while setting a World Series strikeout record. Date: April 16.
  • Bob Graham, 87. Former U.S. senator and two-term governor of Florida, he became notable as the chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee after the 2001 attacks and criticized the Iraq war early on. Date: April 16.
  • Dickey Betts, 80. Legendary guitarist who co-founded the Allman Brothers Band and composed their classic hit, “Ramblin’ Man.” Date: April 18.
  • Roman Gabriel, 83. The first Filipino-American quarterback in the NFL, praised for winning the league MVP title in 1969. Date: April 20.
  • Terry Anderson, 76. Prominent AP journalist who endured nearly seven years as one of America’s longest-held hostages after being abducted in Lebanon in 1985. Date: April 21.
  • William Laws Calley Jr., 80. Former Army lieutenant associated with the infamous My Lai massacre, a significant atrocity in U.S. military history. Date: April 28.
  • Duane Eddy, 86. Influential guitarist known for his unique electric sound on tracks like “Rebel Rouser” and “Peter Gunn,” which shaped the early rock ‘n’ roll genre. Date: April 30.

  MAY

  • Dick Rutan, 85. Alongside copilot Jeana Yeager, achieved a landmark feat in aviation by completing the first non-stop, round-the-world flight. Date: May 3.
  • Jeannie Epper, 83. Pioneering stunt performer known for her work with iconic actresses like Lynda Carter on “Wonder Woman” during the 70s and 80s. Date: May 5.
  • Bernard Hill, 79. Actor noted for his roles in “Titanic” and “The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King.” Date: May 5.
  • Steve Albini, 61. A trailblazer in alternative rock, recognized for his influential production work with bands like Nirvana and the Pixies. Date: May 7.
  • Kim Ki Nam, 94. North Korean propaganda leader known for creating personality cults for the ruling dynasty. Date: May 7.
  • Pete McCloskey, 96. Environmental advocate and anti-war Republican who co-authored the Endangered Species Act and was a co-founder of Earth Day. Date: May 8.
  • Ralph Kennedy Frasier, 85. Last surviving member of the trio that desegregated the University of North Carolina’s undergraduate body in the 1950s. Date: May 8.
  • Roger Corman, 98. A filmmaker known as the “King of the Bs,” credited with low-budget classics and helping launch many Hollywood careers. Date: May 9.
  • Alice Munro, 92. Nobel Prize-winning Canadian author celebrated for her impactful short stories and literary contributions. Date: May 13.
  • Dabney Coleman, 92. Character actor known for his memorable roles in films such as “9 to 5” and “Tootsie.” Date: May 16.
  • Peter Buxtun, 86. Whistleblower who exposed the Tuskegee study, revealing unethical treatment of Black men in Alabama. Date: May 18.
  • Ebrahim Raisi, 63. Iranian president notable for his hardline policies and involvement in major national events, including human rights abuses. Date: May 19 (helicopter crash).
  • Hossein Amirabdollahian, 60. Iran’s foreign minister known for confrontational relations with the West and nuclear negotiations. Date: May 19 (helicopter crash).
  • Ivan F. Boesky, 87. Infamous stock trader linked to a major Wall Street insider trading scandal following his cooperation with government investigations. Date: May 20.
  • Morgan Spurlock, 53. Acclaimed documentary filmmaker known for works highlighting issues in the food industry; he notably consumed only McDonald’s for a month. Date: May 23 (cancer complications).
  • Bill Walton, 71. UCLA basketball star and Hall of Fame NBA center, later becoming a prominent sports broadcaster. Date: May 27.
  • Robert Pickton, 74. Convicted Canadian serial killer who targeted women at his farm; injuries from a prison altercation led to his demise. Date: May 31.

  JUNE

  • Tin Oo, 97. Key ally of Myanmar’s ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi and co-founder of the National League for Democracy. Date: June 1.
  • Janis Paige, 101. Acclaimed actress from both Hollywood and Broadway, known for her performances alongside stars like Fred Astaire. Date: June 2.
  • David Levy, 86. Politician and advocate against racism, he served as Israel’s foreign minister after caring for the welfare of North African Jews. Date: June 2.
  • Brigitte Bierlein, 74. First female chancellor of Austria, she led the country through an interim government in 2019. Date: June 3.
  • Paul Pressler, 94. Significant leader within the Southern Baptist Convention, he faced allegations of sexual abuse later settled in court. Date: June 7.
  • The Rev. James Lawson Jr., 95. Influential figure in civil rights, he trained activists in nonviolent resistance against oppression. Date: June 9.

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  • Lynn Conway, 86. A trailblazer in microchip design critical for consumer electronics, she broke barriers as a transgender pioneer. June 9.
  • Françoise Hardy, 80. An iconic French singer who rose to fame in the 1960s. June 11.
  • Jerry West, 86. A three-time Basketball Hall of Fame inductee, his silhouette is widely recognized as the NBA logo. June 12.
  • George Nethercutt, 79. The former congressman from Spokane, he shocked the political landscape in 1994 by dethroning Democratic Speaker Tom Foley. June 14.
  • Kazuko Shiraishi, 93. A significant figure in modern Japanese beat poetry renowned for her captivating performances often accompanied by jazz music. June 14.
  • Willie Mays, 93. The electrifying baseball player, known as the “Say Hey Kid,” is celebrated for his extraordinary talent and passion for the game. June 18.
  • Anouk Aimée, 92. The enchanting French actress known for memorable roles in classic films like “La Dolce Vita” and “A Man and a Woman.” June 18.
  • Donald Sutherland, 88. A versatile Canadian actor with a career spanning over fifty years, he starred in films from “M.A.S.H.” to “The Hunger Games.” June 20.
  • Bill Cobbs, 90. The experienced character actor known for his frequent and wise presence on screen later in life. June 25.
  • Martin Mull, 80. His unique comedic style made him a hit in the 1970s and a favorite guest on shows like “Roseanne” and “Arrested Development.” June 27.
  • Pål Enger, 57. Once a skilled Norwegian soccer player, he became infamous for his daring 1994 theft of Edvard Munch’s “The Scream.” June 29.

  JULY

  • Jim Inhofe, 89. A significant figure in Oklahoma politics for over 60 years, he was a Republican senator recognized for his defense spending advocacy and climate change skepticism. July 9.
  • Joe Bonsall, 76. Grammy-winning tenor of the celebrated country and gospel group, the Oak Ridge Boys. July 9.
  • Tommy Robinson, 82. Former U.S. congressman known for his controversial tactics as an Arkansas sheriff. July 10.
  • Shelley Duvall, 75. The charming actress from Texas became famous for her performances in Robert Altman’s films and the classic “The Shining.” July 11.
  • Dr. Ruth Westheimer, 96. The diminutive sex therapist became a household name through her candid discussions on intimate topics and gained fame as a media personality. July 12.
  • Shannen Doherty, 53. Known for her role in “Beverly Hills, 90210,” her life faced challenges from health issues and media scrutiny. July 13.
  • Richard Simmons, 76. The exuberant fitness icon encouraged many to lead healthier lives in his signature attire. July 13.
  • James Sikking, 90. He was famous for his roles in “Hill Street Blues” and “Doogie Howser, M.D.” July 13.
  • Jacoby Jones, 40. A former NFL player remembered for setting a Super Bowl record with a 108-yard kickoff return. July 14.
  • Cheng Pei-pei, 78. A renowned martial arts film actress, notably for her role in “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.” July 17.
  • Bob Newhart, 94. The comedian who transitioned from a stand-up star to a beloved television personality, known for his deadpan humor. July 18.
  • Lou Dobbs, 78. A political commentator who was a founding anchor on CNN and later a familiar face on Fox Business Network. July 18.
  • Nguyen Phu Trong, 80. The general secretary of the Communist Party in Vietnam and an influential political leader. July 19.
  • Sheila Jackson Lee, 74. A congresswoman from Texas recognized for advocating against domestic violence and promoting Juneteenth as a holiday. July 19.
  • Abdul “Duke” Fakir, 88. The last original member of the Four Tops, famous for hits like “Standing in the Shadows of Love.” July 22.
  • Edna O’Brien, 93. An influential Irish author whose debut novel stirred controversy and later earned her acclaim in literary circles worldwide. July 27.
  • Francine Pascal, 92. A former soap opera writer, she captivated young readers with her series “Sweet Valley High.” July 28.
  • Betty Prashker, 99. A groundbreaking editor who helped publish influential works by several prominent authors throughout her career. July 30.
  • Ismail Haniyeh, 62. The Hamas leader in exile was marked as a target by Israel following lethal attacks on October 7. He was killed in an airstrike in Iran. July 31.

  AUGUST

  • Jack Russell, 63. The frontman of the 80s rock band Great White, known for hits like “Once Bitten Twice Shy,” he was performing during the tragic Rhode Island nightclub fire. Aug. 7.
  • Juan “Chi Chi” Rodriguez, 88. A Hall of Fame golfer beloved for his entertaining personality and inspiring life story on and off the green. Aug. 8.
  • Susan Wojcicki, 56. A leading tech executive who played a crucial role in the development of Google and YouTube. Aug. 9.
  • Wallace “Wally” Amos, 88. The founder of the Famous Amos cookie brand went on to champion children’s literacy. Aug. 13.
  • Gena Rowlands, 94. Celebrated as one of the finest actors, her significant contributions to independent cinema began with her collaborations with her husband, John Cassavetes. Aug. 14.
  • Peter Marshall, 98. The actor and game show host noted for his role on “The Hollywood Squares.” Aug. 15.
  • Alain Delon, 88. The renowned French actor known for portraying both villains and heroes, capturing global audiences’ hearts. Aug. 18.
  • Phil Donahue, 88. He pioneered the daytime talk show genre, paving the way for future stars like Oprah Winfrey.

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  • Montel Williams, Ellen DeGeneres, and numerous others, passed away on Aug. 18.
  • Ruth Johnson Colvin, who celebrated her 107th birthday, was a trailblazer in literacy. She founded Literacy Volunteers of America and was honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Aug. 18.
  • Al Attles, age 87, notable for coaching the 1975 NBA champion Warriors and dedicating over six decades to the team in various roles, including player and general manager. Aug. 20.
  • John Amos, 84, remembered for his role as the father in the beloved ’70s sitcom “Good Times” and for an Emmy-nominated performance in the landmark miniseries “Roots.” Aug. 21.
  • Salim Hoss, age 94, a five-time former Prime Minister of Lebanon who guided the nation through challenging times. Aug. 25.
  • Leonard Riggio, at 83, revolutionized the publishing world by establishing Barnes & Noble, dominating the industry until the emergence of Amazon. Aug. 27.
  • Edward B. Johnson, 81, a CIA officer renowned for bravely rescuing six American diplomats during the 1979 Iran crisis. Aug. 27.
  • Johnny Gaudreau, 31, known as “Johnny Hockey,” had an impressive ten-season NHL career and tragically passed away in an accident while biking with his brother on Aug. 29.
  • Kiingi Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII, aged 69, served as the Māori King of New Zealand, being the seventh in the Kiingitanga leadership line. Aug. 30.
  • Fatman Scoop, 56, a hip-hop sensation famous for his chart-topping track “Be Faithful” and collaborations with stars like Missy Elliott, died unexpectedly after collapsing on stage on Aug. 30.

  SEPTEMBER

  

  • Linda Deutsch, 80, a long-time correspondent for The Associated Press, documented major trials in U.S. history, including the Charles Manson and O.J. Simpson cases. Sept. 1.
  • James Darren, 88, a teen idol who gained fame during the 1960s surfing boom via the film “Gidget.” Sept. 2.
  • Sergio Mendes, 83, Grammy winner whose iconic track “Mas Que Nada” solidified his status as a global music legend. Sept. 5.
  • James Earl Jones, 93, a celebrated actor who overcame adversity to lend his powerful voice to iconic figures like Darth Vader and roles on CNN and in “The Lion King.” Sept. 9.
  • Frankie Beverly, 77, known for his soulful melodies as the leader of the band Maze, inspiring many with timeless hits like “Before I Let Go.” Sept. 10.
  • Jim Sasser, 87, with a distinguished political career as a U.S. Senator and ambassador to China. Sept. 10.
  • Alberto Fujimori, 86, former president of Peru, remembered for both his economic reforms and controversial presidency. Sept. 11.
  • Joe Schmidt, 92, a Hall of Fame linebacker who contributed to the Lions’ NFL championship wins in the ’50s and later coached the team. Sept. 11.
  • Tito Jackson, 70, a foundational member of the renowned music group, the Jackson 5. Sept. 15.
  • John David “JD” Souther, 78, influential songwriter and musician, recognized for his work with the Eagles in the ’70s. Sept. 17.
  • Kathryn Crosby, 90, appeared in classic films before marrying the legendary Bing Crosby. Sept. 20.
  • John Ashton, 76, distinguished for his memorable role in the “Beverly Hills Cop” series as Detective John Taggart. Sept. 26.
  • Maggie Smith, 89, acclaimed actress celebrated for her performances in “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie” and as the Dowager Countess in “Downton Abbey.” Sept. 27.
  • Hassan Nasrallah, 64, known for leading Hezbollah, was killed in an Israeli airstrike on Sept. 27.
  • Kris Kristofferson, 88, a talented singer-songwriter and actor, had a significant impact on country music and Hollywood. Sept. 28.
  • Drake Hogestyn, 70, recognized for his 38-year tenure on “Days of Our Lives.” Sept. 28.
  • Pete Rose, 83, baseball’s all-time hits leader who faced downfall due to betting controversies. Sept. 30.
  • Dikembe Mutombo, 58, a Hall of Fame basketball player known for his defense and philanthropy, passed away from brain cancer. Sept. 30.
  • Gavin Creel, 48, a Broadway star, celebrated for wins and nominations at the Tonys, sadly lost his battle with cancer. Sept. 30.
  • Humberto Ortega, 77, a Nicaraguan revolutionary who later criticized his brother’s presidency. Sept. 30.
  • Ken Page, 70, an iconic actor in both stage and screen, remembered for roles in “Dreamgirls” and “The Nightmare Before Christmas.” Sept. 30.

  OCTOBER

  • Megan Marshack, 70, an aide to Nelson Rockefeller, was present during his controversial passing on Oct. 2.
  • Mimis Plessas, 99, a cherished Greek composer who contributed to countless films and has been an essential part of Greek culture. Oct. 5.
  • Cissy Houston, 91, renowned for her contributions to soul and gospel, also faced personal trials as the mother of the late Whitney Houston. Oct. 7.
  • Tim Johnson, 77, former U.S. Senator and notable figure in South Dakota’s recent political history, died on Oct. 8.
  • Ratan Tata, 86, a pivotal Indian business leader, played a significant role in transforming the Indian industrial landscape.

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  OCTOBER

  • Ratan Tata, 85. The former head of Tata Group, a major industrial company valued at $100 billion, passed away on October 9.
  • Leif Segerstam, 80. The colorful Finnish conductor and composer, well-known in the classical music community, died on October 9.
  • Ethel Kennedy, 96. The widow of Senator Robert F. Kennedy, who dedicated years to social causes while raising their 11 children after his assassination, passed on October 10.
  • Lilly Ledbetter, 86. A former factory manager whose landmark lawsuit against pay discrimination made her a symbol of the equal pay movement, died on October 12.
  • Philip G. Zimbardo, 91. The psychologist known for the controversial “Stanford Prison Experiment,” which explored the psychological effects of incarceration, passed away on October 14.
  • Liam Payne, 31. Former One Direction member, whose band had a global fanbase, tragically died after a fall from a hotel balcony on October 16.
  • Yahya Sinwar, 61. The Hamas leader responsible for the shocking October 7, 2023, attacks on Israel, subsequently killed by Israeli forces on October 16.
  • Mitzi Gaynor, 93. The vibrant actress known for her role in the classic film “South Pacific,” passed away on October 17.
  • Vasso Papandreou, 79. A pioneering Greek politician and champion for women’s political representation, died on October 17.
  • Thelma Mothershed Wair, 83. One of the nine students who integrated a Little Rock high school amid segregationist protests, passed away on October 19.
  • Fethullah Gülen, 83. The reclusive Islamic cleric, who stirred global movements while facing controversial accusations in Turkey, died on October 20.
  • Fernando Valenzuela, 63. The celebrated baseball player who created “Fernandomania” with the Los Angeles Dodgers, passed away on October 22.
  • The Rev. Gustavo Gutiérrez, 96. The influential Peruvian theologian who founded liberation theology, passed away on October 22.
  • Phil Lesh, 84. The innovative bassist of the Grateful Dead, known for his classical and jazz background, died on October 25.
  • Teri Garr, 79. The actress known for her quirky comedic roles in films like “Young Frankenstein,” died on October 29 due to multiple sclerosis.
  • Colm McLoughlin, 81. The Irish entrepreneur who helped build Dubai Duty Free into a retail giant passed away on October 30.

  NOVEMBER

  • Quincy Jones, 91. The legendary music producer known for his work with Michael Jackson and others, passed away on November 3.
  • Bernard “Bernie” Marcus, 95. The co-founder of The Home Depot and influential philanthropist, died on November 4.
  • Murray Sinclair, 73. A former First Nation judge and senator who investigated Canada’s residential schools, passed away on November 4.
  • Elwood Edwards, 74. The voice behind the famous “You’ve got mail” greeting from America Online, died on November 5.
  • Tony Todd, 69. Known for his role in “Candyman,” the actor passed away on November 6.
  • Bobby Allison, 86. The NASCAR Hall of Famer and pioneer of racing’s “Alabama Gang” died on November 9.
  • Reg Murphy, 90. The journalist survived a politically motivated kidnapping and held notable roles in major newspapers, passed on November 9.
  • Vardis J. Vardinoyannis, 90. A significant figure in Greek shipping and energy who survived a terrorist attack, died on November 12.
  • Timothy West, 90. The esteemed British actor known for Shakespearean roles and charming boating exploits passed away on November 12.
  • Song Jae-lim, 39. The South Korean actor famous for his roles in popular K-dramas, died on November 12.
  • Shuntaro Tanikawa, 92. A modern poet who broke away from traditional Japanese poetry styles, passed on November 13.
  • Bela Karolyi, 82. The controversial gymnastics coach who produced champions, died on November 15.
  • Olav Thon, 101. The billionaire Norwegian entrepreneur known for his significant contributions to real estate, passed away on November 16.
  • Arthur Frommer, 95. The author of influential travel guides that changed how Americans vacationed, died on November 18.
  • Alice Brock, 83. The inspiration behind Arlo Guthrie’s “Alice’s Restaurant,” passed on November 21.
  • Fred Harris, 94. The former senator and presidential candidate known for his reform advocacy, died on November 23.
  • Chuck Woolery, 83. The game show host known for “Wheel of Fortune,” later became a right-wing commentator, passed away on November 23.
  • Barbara Taylor Bradford, 91. The British author who gained fame with “A Woman of Substance,” passed on November 24.
  • Mary McGee, 87. A trailblazer in racing covered in the documentary “Motorcycle Mary,” died on November 27.
  • Prince Johnson, 72. The former Liberian warlord whose actions garnered international attention, passed on November 28.
  • Ananda Krishnan, 86. A Malaysian tycoon with extensive business holdings, died on November 28.
  • Lou Carnesecca, 99. The beloved St. John’s basketball coach known for his vibrant style, passed away on November 30.

  DECEMBER

  Notable Figures We’ve Lost in December

  • Debbie Nelson, aged 69. Eminem’s mother, known for their tumultuous relationship portrayed in his songs. Died on December 2.
  • Nikki Giovanni, 81 years old. Esteemed poet and public personality, she went from financial struggles to becoming a revered literary figure, tackling themes of love, racism, and more. Died on December 9.
  • George Joseph Kresge Jr., 89. Famously recognized as The Amazing Kreskin, he captivated television audiences as a gifted entertainer and mentalist. Died on December 10.
  • Jim Leach, 82. A former congressman from Iowa with a 30-year political career, later leading the National Endowment for the Humanities. Died on December 11.
  • John Spratt, 82. A long-serving Democratic congressman from South Carolina who was instrumental in a balanced budget agreement in the 1990s but lost his seat in later elections. Died on December 14.
  • Zakir Hussain, 73. One of India’s top classical musicians, he popularized the tabla worldwide. Died on December 15.
  • Fred Lorenzen, 89. Inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame, he was the champion of the 1965 Daytona 500. Died on December 18.
  • Tsuneo Watanabe, 98. The influential chairman of Yomiuri Shimbun, Japan’s largest newspaper, with strong ties to conservative politics. Died on December 19.
  • Rickey Henderson, 65. A legendary baseball Hall of Famer known for his speed and record-breaking stolen bases. Died on December 20.
  • Shyam Benegal, 90. A significant Indian filmmaker, he was a pioneer of the new wave cinema movement in the 1970s, addressing various social issues. Died on December 23.
  • Desi Bouterse, 79. A military leader in Suriname who first seized power in 1980 and later returned through elections, facing serious legal accusations. Died on December 24.
  • Osamu Suzuki, 94. The former leader of Suzuki Motor Corp., he transformed the company into a major global competitor. Died on December 25.
  • Manmohan Singh, 92. Distinguished former Prime Minister of India credited with landmark economic reforms and a critical nuclear agreement with the U.S. Died on December 26.
  • Richard Parsons, 76. A renowned African American executive, he played key roles at major companies including Time Warner and Citigroup. Died on December 26.

  • Jimmy Carter, 100. The former president, admired more for his humanitarian efforts than his presidency, passed away after spending nearly two years in hospice care at his home in Plains, Georgia. Died on December 29.

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