John Francis Regis

French priest and saint

John Francis Regis - French priest and saint
Born

January 31st, 1597
428 years ago

Died

December 30th, 1640
384 years ago — 43 years old

Category

Activists & Humanitarians

Country

France

Links & References

Ordained as a priest in the Society of Jesus, dedicated to preaching and teaching in France during the 17th century. Focused on the spiritual needs of the marginalized and carried out missionary work, notably among the poor and the sick. Established a strong connection with the people through his compassionate approach. Contributed to the founding of the parish and worked on spiritual guidance and catechesis. Canonized as a saint by Pope Clement XII in 1737.

Preached among the poor in France

Canonized as a saint in 1737

Other People Born on January 31st

Jānis Sprukts

Latvian ice hockey player and captain
Born
January 31st, 1982 43 years ago

Competed at the professional level in ice hockey. Played for the Latvian national team, representing the country in various international tournaments, including the IIHF World Championships. Had a club career that included stints with teams in both Latvia and internationally, making notable contributions in leagues such as the KHL and other European leagues.

Continue Reading

Matt King

English actor and screenwriter
Born
January 31st, 1968 57 years ago

An English actor and screenwriter, recognized for work in television and film. Gained prominence through the role in the television series 'This Is England' and contributed to the writing of its sequels. Also appeared in 'The Inbetweeners' and had roles in various British comedy productions. In addition to acting, engaged in producing and screenwriting, expanding contributions to the entertainment industry. Continues to be active in various film projects and television.

Continue Reading

Isham Jones

American saxophonist and bandleader
Born
January 31st, 1894 131 years ago
Died
October 19th, 1956 68 years ago — 62 years old

An American saxophonist, composer, and bandleader contributed significantly to the big band era in music. Founded the Isham Jones Orchestra, which became a prominent ensemble during the 1920s and 1930s. Composed several popular songs that remain standards in the jazz repertoire. His most famous piece, "On the Alamo," was widely covered and appreciated in the music community.

Continue Reading

Maret Ani

Tennis player and Estonian champion
Born
January 31st, 1982 43 years ago

Born in 1982, a former professional tennis player from Estonia competed in both singles and doubles events on the WTA Tour. Achieved a career-high singles ranking of World No. 56 in 2003. Played for Estonia in the Fed Cup, contributing significantly to the team’s success. Retired from professional tennis in 2015, after a career that included participation in various Grand Slam tournaments.

Continue Reading

Ernesto Brambilla

Italian motorcycle and race car driver
Born
January 31st, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent figure in motorsport, contributed significantly to both motorcycle racing and car racing disciplines. Competed in the Grand Prix motorcycle racing events during the 1950s, securing multiple wins and establishing a formidable reputation. Transitioned to car racing, participating in Formula One and other significant competitions. Achieved notable success at the 1965 Italian Grand Prix where a strong performance led to a podium finish. His career spanned several years, showcasing versatility across different types of racing.

Continue Reading

Terry Kath

Guitarist and songwriter of Chicago
Born
January 31st, 1946 79 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1978 47 years ago — 31 years old

A prominent American guitarist and songwriter, this musician was a founding member of the rock band Chicago. Renowned for exceptional guitar skills and distinctive vocals, the artist contributed significantly to the band's early success with hits in the 1970s. The unique sound combined rock with jazz and orchestral elements. An influential figure in the band, he played guitar on several key albums, making a lasting impact on the group's identity. The musician’s life was tragically cut short at the age of 31, but the music remains enduring in the rock genre.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 30th

Paul Sally

Mathematician and academic researcher
Born
1933 92 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2013 11 years ago — 80 years old

Contributed to the field of mathematics through teaching and research. Served as a professor at the University of Chicago and engaged in various mathematical projects. Published numerous papers in areas such as mathematics education and topology. Fostered a collaborative academic environment and mentored many students throughout a lengthy career.

Continue Reading

Saddam Hussein

Iraqi President and military leader
Born
April 28th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2006 18 years ago — 69 years old

Served as the 5th President of Iraq from 1979 until 2003. Played a significant role in the Ba'ath Party and became a leading figure in Iraq's politics during the late 20th century. Oversaw the Iran-Iraq War from 1980 to 1988 and initiated the Gulf War in 1990 by invading Kuwait. After the 2003 invasion of Iraq by a coalition led by the United States, was captured, tried for crimes against humanity, and executed in 2006.

Continue Reading

Egwin of Evesham

Bishop of Worcester and saint
Died
December 30th, 717 1307 years ago — None years old

Served as Bishop of Worcester from 693 until death in 717. Founded the monastery at Evesham, which became an important religious center. Canonized as a saint, recognized for contributions to the church and for promoting monastic life in England. His feast day is celebrated on December 30.

Continue Reading

Shinichi Hoshi

Japanese author of science fiction stories
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1997 27 years ago — 71 years old

An author and illustrator from Japan, produced numerous works focusing on science fiction. Works often featured whimsical and unforeseen twists, exploring the relationship between humanity and technology. Gained recognition for concise storytelling and imaginative narratives. Contributions to short stories and essays led to distinct recognition in the literary community, with a profound influence on the genre in Japan. Continued to inspire future writers and readers with an enduring legacy.

Continue Reading

Vikram Sarabhai

Indian physicist and space program founder
Born
August 12th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1971 53 years ago — 52 years old

A prominent Indian physicist and academic, contributed significantly to the development of India's space and satellite programs. Played a crucial role in establishing the Indian National Committee for Space Research, which later evolved into the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Instrumental in the launch of the country's first satellite, Aryabhata, in 1975. Actively supported the establishment of institutions in various scientific disciplines and promoted the application of science and technology for the development of India.

Continue Reading

Doug Atkins

Football Defensive End, Pro Football Hall of Famer
Born
May 8th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2015 9 years ago — 85 years old

A professional football player, primarily played as a defensive end in the National Football League (NFL) for the Chicago Bears and the Cleveland Browns. Atkins participated in multiple Pro Bowls and was recognized for his exceptional skill and performance on the field. His career spanned from 1953 to 1969, during which he contributed to the Bears' defense and became a key figure in team successes. Atkins was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1982, solidifying a legacy in football history.

Continue Reading