Jim Wacker
American football coach and player
Born
1937
89 years ago
Died
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
A college football coach and player, served as head coach at various universities. Led teams at Southwest Texas State University, Texas Christian University, and the University of Minnesota. Achieved success in the Southland Conference and earned accolades for rebuilding struggling programs. Transitioned to the University of Minnesota, guiding them to competitive seasons in the Big Ten. Additionally, played as a quarterback during college years and contributed to the development of numerous players entering professional football.
Head coach at Texas Christian University
Developed college football programs at multiple universities
Other People Who Died on August 26th
William James
Psychologist and philosopher, 'The Principles of Psychology'
Born
January 11th, 1842 184 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1910 116 years ago — 68 years old
Contributed significantly to psychology and philosophy, emphasizing the functionalist perspective. Served as a professor at Harvard University, where influential lectures and writings shaped modern psychology. Introduced the concept of stream of consciousness and advocated for pragmatism as a philosophical approach. Published notable works including 'The Principles of Psychology' and 'The Varieties of Religious Experience'.
Continue ReadingMariam Baouardy
Syrian Roman Catholic nun, canonized
Born
January 5th, 1846 180 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1878 148 years ago — 32 years old
Born in a small village in Ottoman Syria, became a nun in the Carmelite order. Established a convent in Bethlehem and founded a Carmelite community in India. Known for mystical experiences and reported stigmata. Later canonized by the Catholic Church for her piety and dedication to the religious life.
Continue ReadingJoe Ruby
Animator known for Scooby-Doo series
Born
March 30th, 1933 93 years ago
Died
August 26th, 2020 6 years ago — 87 years old
An American animator contributed significantly to the animation industry. Co-founded Ruby-Spears Productions, which created animated series. Developed the beloved cartoon Scooby-Doo, Where Are You!, which premiered in 1969. Worked on various other shows and projects that showcased innovative storytelling and character design.
Continue ReadingLee Hays
American singer-songwriter, 'This Land Is Your Land'
Born
March 14th, 1914 112 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1981 45 years ago — 67 years old
A significant figure in American folk music, made substantial contributions to the genre in the mid-20th century. Frequently collaborated with other prominent artists, particularly Pete Seeger. Played a pivotal role in the formation of the Weavers, a folk music group that gained worldwide popularity. The Weavers helped to revive interest in traditional folk songs during the folk music revival of the 1950s and 1960s.
Continue ReadingJeanie MacPherson
American actress and screenwriter
Born
May 18th, 1886 140 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1946 80 years ago — 60 years old
An actress and screenwriter contributed to the early film industry. Active in the 1910s and 1920s, she appeared in and wrote for silent films. Collaborated with prominent directors and actors of the era, shaping the narrative structure of early cinema. MacPherson’s work displayed a strong understanding of storytelling and character development. Most noted for writing the screenplay for the classic film 'The Sheik', which starred Rudolph Valentino, a significant film of its time that contributed to the popularity of romantic adventure stories in cinema. Also performed in numerous silent films, establishing a career that spanned both acting and writing.
Continue ReadingJohn J. Gilligan
American politician, 62nd Governor of Ohio
Born
March 22nd, 1922 104 years ago
Died
August 26th, 2013 13 years ago — 91 years old
Served as the 62nd Governor of Ohio from 1971 to 1975. Focused on educational reforms and environmental issues during tenure. Prior to governorship, held positions in the Ohio House of Representatives and the Ohio Senate. Worked as a professor after leaving office.
Continue Reading