Big Bertha
Irish cattle, oldest and prolific cow
Born
1945
81 years ago
Died
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
Ireland
Links & References
Born in Ireland in 1945, this cow gained attention for her remarkable lifespan and reproductive record. She lived for 48 years, making her the oldest cow on record at the time of her death in 1993. Throughout her life, she gave birth to 39 calves, setting a new standard in livestock breeding. Her longevity and productivity contributed to discussions on animal husbandry and cattle breeding practices, particularly in her home country.
Held the Guinness World Record for oldest cow
Held the Guinness World Record for most offspring
Other People Who Died on December 31st
Per Oscarsson
Swedish actor, director, screenwriter
Born
January 28th, 1927 99 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2010 15 years ago — 83 years old
An actor, director, producer, and screenwriter, recognized for contributions to European cinema. Gained prominence in the 1960s and 1970s. Appeared in notable films such as 'The Uninvited' and 'The Nothing Factory'. Beyond acting, directed several stage productions and spent time developing screenplays. Received acclaim for performance in 'The Man on the Roof', which showcased versatility in both dramatic and comedic roles. Awarded the Guldbagge Award for Best Actor.
Continue ReadingVasily Lazarev
Russian astronaut and physician
Born
February 23rd, 1928 98 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1990 35 years ago — 62 years old
Served as a colonel in the Soviet Air Force and contributed to the Soviet space program as a physician and cosmonaut. Participated in the Soyuz 14 mission in 1974, which involved a successful docking with the Salyut 7 space station. Conducted scientific research during the mission that contributed to the understanding of long-duration spaceflight effects on the human body.
Continue ReadingÓlafur Thors
Icelandic lawyer and Prime Minister
Born
January 19th, 1892 134 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1964 61 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent figure in Icelandic politics, served as Prime Minister during two non-consecutive terms from 1954 to 1956 and from 1963 to 1965. Played a significant role in shaping post-war Icelandic society and governance. Additionally, held various ministerial positions throughout the political career, including Minister of Justice and Minister of Fisheries. Contributed to the development of Iceland’s legal framework and international relations.
Continue ReadingWesley Addy
American actor in television and film
Born
August 4th, 1913 113 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1996 29 years ago — 83 years old
An American actor, prominent during the mid-20th century, worked extensively in television and film. Appeared in leading roles on series such as 'The Edge of Night' and 'The Defenders'. Had a successful career in Broadway, particularly celebrated for performances in productions like 'A Moon for the Misbegotten'. Also featured in movies including 'The Young Lovers' and 'The Way We Were'.
Continue ReadingBetty White
Actress and television personality
Born
January 17th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2021 4 years ago — 99 years old
An American actress, game show panelist, and television personality, played significant roles in television history. Best known for appearances on 'The Golden Girls' and 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show'. Her career spanned decades, with work in various formats including sitcoms, documentaries, and game shows. In addition to entertainment, engaged in animal rights activism, advocating for animal welfare causes throughout life.
Continue ReadingFloyd Cramer
American pianist known for country music
Born
October 27th, 1933 93 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1997 28 years ago — 64 years old
A prominent American pianist, contributions spanned multiple genres, with a specific influence in country music. Significant work in developing the Nashville sound during the 1960s, blending traditional country with pop elements. A session musician, played on numerous hits and worked with many artists in the country music scene. Released several solo albums and achieved success on the Billboard charts. Inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame for contributions to the genre.
Continue Reading