Edward Egan
Cardinal and Archbishop of New York
Served as the ninth Archbishop of New York from 2000 to 2009. Held the title of Cardinal in the Catholic Church and contributed to various church reforms. Worked as a priest and bishop in various roles, including Bishop of Bridgeport. Actively engaged in issues related to education and social justice within the Catholic community.
Served as Archbishop of New York.
Oversaw the Archdiocese during significant events, including the aftermath of the September 11 attacks.
Participated in the 2005 papal conclave that elected Pope Benedict XVI.
Other People Born on April 2nd
Don Sutton
Baseball player and sportscaster
Born
April 2nd, 1945 80 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 76 years old
Born on April 2, 1945, a prominent career in Major League Baseball spanned from 1966 to 1988. Played primarily as a starting pitcher for teams including the Los Angeles Dodgers, Houston Astros, and the Oakland Athletics. Achieved a significant milestone by recording over 300 career wins and 3,574 strikeouts, ranking among the top pitchers in MLB history. Transitioned to a sportscasting career after retirement, providing analysis for various networks. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1998, recognizing contributions to the sport.
Continue ReadingDr. Demento
American radio host and music curator
Born
April 2nd, 1941 84 years ago
A radio host specialized in novelty music and comedy. Started a pioneering show, which aired weekly, showcasing a mix of humorous songs, sound bites, and eccentric recordings. Gained popularity in the 1970s, influencing a new generation of comedians and musicians. Introduced audiences to various comedic artists and their works, and is often credited with helping launch the careers of several entertainers. Continues to celebrate and promote novelty songs and humorous performances through various platforms.
Continue ReadingBobby Ávila
Mexican MLB player and All-Star second baseman
Born
April 2nd, 1924 101 years ago
Died
October 26th, 2004 21 years ago — 80 years old
This baseball player began his career in the Mexican League before joining Major League Baseball. He played primarily as a second baseman for the Cleveland Indians, achieving notable success during the 1950s. His playing style showcased strong defensive skills and a notable batting average, contributing to the team's performance. In 1954, he was selected as an All-Star, representing the American League. His achievements included winning a batting title and becoming a significant figure in baseball history, especially for Mexican players looking to enter the league.
Continue ReadingNeville Cardus
Cricket and music writer, author of 'Autobiography'
Born
April 2nd, 1888 137 years ago
Died
February 28th, 1975 50 years ago — 86 years old
A notable cricket and music writer, contributed extensively to journalism throughout the 20th century. Worked for Manchester Guardian and wrote many articles on cricket and classical music. Authored several books, with 'Autobiography' considered a significant work in sports literature. His writings often blended analysis with personal reflections on the game and its players.
Continue ReadingDonald Petrie
American film director and actor
Born
April 2nd, 1954 71 years ago
Born in 1954, this filmmaker directed several notable romantic comedies throughout the 1990s and 2000s. His directorial works include films such as 'Grumpy Old Men', 'Miss Congeniality', and 'How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days'. As an actor, he appeared in projects like 'The Good Wife'. His career has blended both acting and directing roles, showcasing various talents in the film industry.
Continue ReadingDavid Heyes
English politician and MP
Born
April 2nd, 1946 79 years ago
Elected as a Member of Parliament in 1997, associated with the Labour Party. Served as a representative for the Ashton-under-Lyne constituency. Contributed to various legislative initiatives during tenure. Retired from parliamentary duties in 2015 after serving multiple terms in office.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 5th
Gary Merrill
Actor and director in classic cinema
Born
August 2nd, 1915 110 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1990 35 years ago — 74 years old
An American actor and director, this individual had a prominent career in film and theater. Major roles included performances in 'All About Eve' and 'The Ghost and Mrs. Muir'. Directorial efforts encompassed several stage productions. The actor displayed versatility across genres and mediums, engaging audiences through dramatic and comedic performances. Collaborated with various notable actors and directors during a career that spanned several decades. The artistic contributions were complemented by work in television, which further broadened reach and visibility.
Continue ReadingHenry Wharton
Writer and librarian, authoring histories.
Born
November 9th, 1664 361 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1695 330 years ago — 30 years old
An English writer and librarian, contributed significantly to historical scholarship in the late 17th century. Served as a librarian at the library of the Royal Society. Authored notable works such as 'Anglia Sacra', which provided a detailed account of the ecclesiastical history of England. Engaged in the study of librettos and was instrumental in the collection and preservation of historical documents.
Continue ReadingHawkshaw Hawkins
Country music singer-songwriter
Born
December 22nd, 1921 104 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1963 62 years ago — 41 years old
This American singer-songwriter and guitarist gained prominence in the country music scene during the 1950s and early 1960s. He achieved commercial success with hits like "Lonesome 7-7203," which became one of his signature songs. Hawkins recorded multiple albums and was part of the Grand Ole Opry, where he showcased his talents. His music reflected a traditional country style, and he collaborated with other well-known artists of the time. Hawkins' career was tragically cut short by his untimely death in a plane crash in 1963, but his contributions to the genre have left a lasting legacy.
Continue ReadingJay Silverheels
Actor best known for playing Tonto
Born
May 26th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1980 45 years ago — 67 years old
An actor recognized for portraying Tonto in the television series The Lone Ranger, Silverheels was one of the first Indigenous actors to gain fame in Hollywood. Silverheels, born in Canada, began his career in the entertainment industry as a professional lacrosse player before transitioning to acting in the 1940s. He appeared in various films, often playing Native American characters, contributing to the representation of Indigenous peoples in media. His role as Tonto from 1949 to 1957 made a significant cultural impact and set a precedent for future Indigenous actors. In addition to his work in film and television, Silverheels was an advocate for Indigenous rights and supported various charitable organizations.
Continue ReadingOtto Tief
Estonian politician, Prime Minister.
Born
August 14th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1976 49 years ago — 86 years old
A lawyer and politician from Estonia, served as Prime Minister during a critical period. Assumed office in 1944 and led the Estonian government in exile after World War II. Advocated for Estonian sovereignty and worked to gain international recognition for the Estonian government in exile until death.
Continue ReadingLena Baker
Executed maid later pardoned posthumously
Born
June 8th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1945 80 years ago — 44 years old
Born in 1900, worked as a maid in Georgia. In 1944, convicted of murdering her employer, which led to her execution in the electric chair. The trial garnered attention due to the circumstances surrounding the case, including claims of abuse. Posthumously pardoned in 2005, recognition of a wrongful conviction emerged decades later, influencing discussions on race and justice in the American legal system.
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