Doris Sams
Baseball player, All-American Girls League
A baseball player contributed significantly to the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League during the 1940s and 1950s. Played as an outfielder and pitcher, showcasing versatility on the field. In 1946, earned the league's batting title, demonstrating exceptional skill in hitting. Represented the Fort Wayne Daisies and the Minneapolis Millerettes among other teams, achieving recognition for on-field performances. Inducted into the the Women’s Sports Foundation Hall of Fame, honoring contributions to women's sports.
Winning the batting title in 1946
Playing for the Fort Wayne Daisies
Inducted into the Women’s Sports Foundation Hall of Fame
Other People Born on February 2nd
Johnston McCulley
Author of Zorro stories
Born
February 2nd, 1883 143 years ago
Died
1958 68 years ago — 75 years old
An American author and screenwriter, contributions include the creation of the character Zorro, first introduced in the 1919 story 'The Curse of Capistrano'. The character became a popular hero in various adaptations, including films, television series, and comics. The iconic masked vigilante, known for his swordsmanship and wit, captured the imagination of readers and viewers alike.
Continue ReadingMetin Oktay
Turkish footballer and manager
Born
February 2nd, 1936 90 years ago
Died
September 13th, 1991 34 years ago — 55 years old
Born in 1936, a prominent Turkish footballer and manager, played primarily as a forward. Played for Galatasaray from 1955 to 1969, becoming the club's all-time top scorer. Frequently represented the Turkish national team, earning over 30 caps. Transitioned to management after retirement, leading various clubs, including a successful tenure with Galatasaray. Recognized for significant contributions to Turkish football.
Continue ReadingFrederick Lane
Australian swimmer and Olympic champion
Born
February 2nd, 1880 146 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1969 56 years ago — 89 years old
An accomplished swimmer specializing in freestyle events, competed in the early 20th century. Won two gold medals at the 1900 Paris Olympics in the 200 meters and 400 meters freestyle events. Set multiple world records during his career and was a prominent figure in the sport at the time. His achievements contributed to the popularity of swimming in Australia and laid the groundwork for future generations of swimmers.
Continue ReadingLes Dawson
Comedian and author, classic humorist
Born
February 2nd, 1931 95 years ago
Died
June 10th, 1993 32 years ago — 62 years old
An English comedian and author widely recognized for a unique brand of humor that often combined wit and pathos. Career began in the 1950s with a focus on stand-up comedy, leading to numerous performances on television. Gained prominence through appearances on shows such as 'The Les Dawson Show' and 'Blankety Blank'. Authored several books, sharing personal anecdotes and comedic observations. Emphasized the comedic potential of everyday life and relationships, which resonated with audiences.
Continue ReadingNell Gwyn
English actress and royal mistress
Born
February 2nd, 1650 376 years ago
Died
1687 339 years ago — 37 years old
Born in 1650, this actress rose to prominence in the Restoration theatre, gaining fame for performances at the King's Company. Established a reputation for both her acting and her charming personality. Became the mistress of King Charles II, which elevated her status within society. Known to have had a significant influence on the arts and culture of her time, her life reflected the intersection of theatre and royalty in 17th century England. Eventually, she retired from the stage and focused on her relationship with the King, giving birth to two of his children.
Continue ReadingHoward Deering Johnson
Businessman and founder of Howard Johnson's
Born
February 2nd, 1897 129 years ago
Died
1972 54 years ago — 75 years old
Founded the Howard Johnson's restaurant and hotel chain, creating a brand associated with comfort food and family dining in America. Established a distinctive franchise system that became influential in the hospitality industry. The first location opened in 1925 in Quincy, Massachusetts, expanding to over a thousand locations across the United States and Canada at its peak. Contributed to the popularization of roadside dining and lodging with consistent branding and menu offerings.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 28th
Jim Brosnan
American baseball player and author
Born
1929 97 years ago
Died
June 28th, 2014 11 years ago — 85 years old
Brosnan played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball for several teams from 1954 to 1963. Key teams included the Chicago Cubs, St. Louis Cardinals, and Cincinnati Reds. In 1961, he achieved a significant milestone by helping the Reds win the National League pennant. Following his baseball career, he authored several books, including 'The Long Season,' a detailed account of a baseball player's experience during the grind of a professional season, which received critical acclaim. Brosnan's insights into the sports world provided a rare perspective from an athlete.
Continue ReadingAudrey Flack
American visual artist and educator
Born
1931 95 years ago
Died
June 28th, 2024 1 years ago — 93 years old
An American visual artist, noted for pioneering photorealism in painting and sculpture. Flack gained prominence in the 1970s with works that combined classical themes with contemporary objects to create intricate images laden with personal and cultural significance. Flack worked in a variety of media, including painting, sculpture, and collage. Additionally, she played a significant role as an educator, teaching at various institutions and mentoring emerging artists. Her work has been exhibited in prominent galleries and museums across the United States and internationally.
Continue ReadingLeontine T. Kelly
American bishop and church leader
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
June 28th, 2012 13 years ago — 92 years old
Served as a bishop in the United Methodist Church, making significant contributions to the church's mission and outreach efforts. Held various leadership roles within the church, advocating for social justice and equality. Pioneered initiatives to address issues such as racism and gender equality within the church and broader community. Kelly also became the first woman to be elected to the bishopric in the United Methodist Church, a historic milestone for female clergy.
Continue ReadingScotty Moore
American guitarist and songwriter
Born
December 27th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
June 28th, 2016 9 years ago — 84 years old
Guitarist and songwriter collaborated with Elvis Presley and played a fundamental role in shaping the sound of rockabilly music. Moore's innovative guitar work can be heard on iconic tracks such as "Heartbreak Hotel" and "Hound Dog." He participated in Presley's legendary Sun Studio sessions in the mid-1950s, contributing to the creation of rock and roll as a genre. Throughout his career, he also performed with several other artists and released solo albums, showcasing his guitar skills and songwriting abilities.
Continue ReadingRobert Sabatier
French author and poet recognized for literature
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
June 28th, 2012 13 years ago — 89 years old
An author and poet, contributed significantly to French literature during the 20th century. Gained acclaim for works that explored themes of memory, nostalgia, and the passage of time. Published numerous volumes of poetry and fiction, showcasing a unique narrative style. Achieved recognition for refining the genre of autobiographical writing and was celebrated for the emotional depth of his storytelling.
Continue ReadingJack Carter
American actor and comedian
Born
June 24th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
June 28th, 2015 10 years ago — 93 years old
An American actor and comedian, this individual gained prominence through performances in television and film, particularly noted for the popular television show 'The Tonight Show' and roles in films including 'The Man with the Golden Arm' and 'The Big Scoop'. His comedic style and quick wit garnered a substantial following over the years, leading to a successful career that spanned several decades. In addition to performing, involvement in variety shows and frequent guest appearances on game shows solidified his status in the entertainment industry. His contributions to comedy and live performances left a lasting impression on audiences.
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