Hoyt Wilhelm
Baseball player and coach, Hall of Famer
Professional baseball career spanned from 1944 to 1972. Played as a pitcher for multiple Major League Baseball teams, with notable tenures at the New York Giants and the Chicago White Sox. Became the first relief pitcher to be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. Contributed to the game as a coach after retirement, mentoring players and sharing knowledge of pitching techniques.
Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1985
Pitched a total of 143 saves in MLB
Played for teams including the New York Giants and Chicago White Sox
Other People Born on July 26th
Jāzeps Vītols
Latvian composer and music educator
Born
July 26th, 1863 162 years ago
Died
April 24th, 1948 77 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent composer and music educator, contributed significantly to the development of Latvian music. Founded the Latvian National Opera and served as its first conductor. Played a vital role in the establishment of music education in Latvia. Created various orchestral and choral works, enhancing the national repertoire. His compositions reflect a blend of folk elements and classical influences.
Continue ReadingDobie Gray
Singer-songwriter known for 'Drift Away'
Born
July 26th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
December 6th, 2011 14 years ago — 71 years old
An American singer-songwriter and producer, known for contributions to the music industry, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s. Achieved recognition with the hit single 'Drift Away,' which became a classic and has been covered by numerous artists. His music blended elements of soul, pop, and country, appealing to a broad audience. Gray also produced tracks for other performers, expanding influence in the music scene.
Continue ReadingReginald Hands
South African cricket and rugby player
Born
July 26th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
1918 107 years ago — 30 years old
Participated in both cricket and rugby at high levels. Played cricket for the South African national team and represented South Africa in rugby union. Engaged in competitive sports during the early 20th century, contributing to the athletic community in both disciplines.
Continue ReadingElena Kustarova
Russian ice dancer and coach
Born
July 26th, 1976 49 years ago
A prominent ice dancer and coach, achieved success in competitive ice dancing during the late 1990s and early 2000s. Partnered with her husband, earned medals at national and international levels. Transitioned to coaching, guiding several successful pairs and contributing to the development of the sport in Russia.
Continue ReadingTeddy Pilette
Race car driver and competitor
Born
July 26th, 1942 83 years ago
A race car driver participated in various competitions, with a focus on Formula 1 and sports car racing. Achieved notable success in the European and international racing circuits during the 1960s and 1970s. Competed in the Belgian Grand Prix and several endurance races. After a transition to a coaching role, contributed to the development of future racing talents.
Continue ReadingIsabel le Despenser
English noble and Countess of Worcester
Born
July 26th, 1400 625 years ago
Died
1439 586 years ago — 39 years old
Born into the English nobility, held the title of Countess of Worcester through marriage. Engaged in the political landscape of 15th century England, aligned with influential families. Played a significant role in the dynastic struggles of the time, notably during the Wars of the Roses. The marriage connected her to prominent figures, strengthening alliances among the English aristocracy. Her life details reflect the complexities of noble status during a turbulent period.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 23rd
James White
American football player, Super Bowl MVP
Born
February 3rd, 1992 33 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 1999 26 years ago — 7 years old
Originally from Florida, this American football player played as a running back in the National Football League (NFL). A draft pick of the New England Patriots in 2014, he contributed significantly to the team's offense. Achievements include a standout performance in Super Bowl LI, where he scored two rushing touchdowns and caught a pivotal two-point conversion, leading to a historic comeback against the Atlanta Falcons. This performance earned recognition as Super Bowl MVP. Throughout the career, played a crucial role in the Patriots' playoff runs and secured three Super Bowl titles.
Continue ReadingStefan Filipkiewicz
Polish Painter and Art Innovator
Born
July 28th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 1944 81 years ago — 65 years old
Born in 1879, this Polish painter specialized in post-impressionist and modernist styles. The artist contributed significantly to the Polish art scene through exhibitions and artistic movements. His work reflected the changing landscape of Polish society during the early 20th century, showcasing both urban and rural themes. Filipkiewicz's pieces often focused on color and light, influencing future generations of Polish artists. Active until the mid-20th century, he played a role in promoting Polish art abroad.
Continue ReadingElizabeth Blackadder
Painter and printmaker; floral works
Born
September 24th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 2021 4 years ago — 89 years old
A Scottish painter and printmaker, this artist specialized in botanical and floral subjects. Studied at Edinburgh College of Art and later taught there. Developed a unique style that combined elements of realism and abstraction, earning recognition in the art community. Exhibited extensively in galleries and museums, both in the UK and internationally. Received multiple accolades throughout a prolific career, including the prestigious OBE.
Continue ReadingJaume Vallcorba Plana
Philologist and Spanish publisher
Born
1949 76 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 2014 11 years ago — 65 years old
A prominent figure in Spanish literature, dedicated to the promotion of Catalan language and culture. Established a notable publishing house specializing in Catalan works. Contributed to academic discussions and literary critiques, enhancing the understanding of regional literature. Actively participated in various literary initiatives, fostering a vibrant cultural environment.
Continue ReadingJohn Anthony Kaiser
American priest and missionary work
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 2000 25 years ago — 68 years old
A Catholic priest active in missionary work in Kenya, contributed to the church's efforts in socio-economic development. Advocated for human rights and spoke out against injustices faced by local communities. His commitment to social justice led to conflicts with the authorities. After years of service, died under suspicious circumstances, which raised concerns about the dangers faced by clergy engaged in social activism.
Continue ReadingTerry Funk
Professional wrestler and actor
Born
June 30th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 2023 2 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent figure in professional wrestling, contributed extensively to the sport from the 1960s through the early 2000s. Gained fame for performing in various wrestling promotions, including World Wrestling Federation (WWF) and Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW). Known for a hard-hitting style and innovative matches, particularly in hardcore wrestling. Also appeared in films such as 'Roadhouse' alongside Patrick Swayze, showcasing versatility beyond the wrestling ring.
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