José Fernández
Cuban-American baseball pitcher
Born
Died
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
Played Major League Baseball for the Miami Marlins. Achieved significant success as a starting pitcher, winning the National League Rookie of the Year Award in 2013. Earned selections to the MLB All-Star Game during his career. Born in Cuba, defected to the United States, and quickly made a name in baseball with strong performances on the mound. Tragically passed away in a boating accident in 2016 at a young age, leaving behind a promising career cut short.
Won National League Rookie of the Year in 2013
Selected to MLB All-Star Game
Led Miami Marlins as ace of the pitching staff
Other People Born on July 31st
John Swainson
Jurist and 42nd Governor of Michigan
Born
July 31st, 1925 100 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1994 31 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1925, this Canadian-American jurist served as the 42nd Governor of Michigan from 1961 to 1963. He previously held the position of Michigan Attorney General from 1955 to 1961. After his governorship, he was appointed to the Michigan Court of Appeals, where he served until 1970. His legal career included involvement in several significant cases, contributing to the state’s legal framework.
Continue ReadingRamón Fonst
Cuban fencer and Olympic champion
Born
July 31st, 1883 142 years ago
Died
September 9th, 1959 66 years ago — 76 years old
Born in Cuba, pursued a career in fencing and became one of the top fencers of the early 20th century. Competed in the 1900 Summer Olympics, winning two gold medals in individual and team foil events. Achieved further success in various international competitions throughout his career, contributing to the sport's popularity in Cuba.
Continue ReadingGeorge Liberace
Violinist and musical performer
Born
July 31st, 1911 114 years ago
Died
1983 42 years ago — 72 years old
Born in the early 20th century, a prominent American violinist gained recognition through performances and recordings. A younger brother of conductor and pianist Liberace, the violinist showcased talents across the United States. His musical journey included television appearances and collaborations with orchestras. The artistry and style contributed to his standing as a respected figure in classical music. He achieved acclaim not just for expertise on the violin, but also for dynamic performances that highlighted his musical interpretations.
Continue ReadingSalvatore Maranzano
Italian-American mob boss, organized crime leader
Born
July 31st, 1886 139 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1931 94 years ago — 45 years old
Founded the Bonanno crime family in New York City. Played a crucial role in the Castellammarese War and established the Commission to govern organized crime in the United States. Elevated status of Sicilian mobsters in America by instituting traditional Sicilian mafia practices. Met his end in 1931 due to power struggles among rival factions, marking a notable turning point in organized crime history.
Continue ReadingHerbert W. Armstrong
American evangelist and author
Born
July 31st, 1892 133 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1986 39 years ago — 93 years old
An evangelist, author, and publisher, contributed to the development of the Worldwide Church of God. Founded the Radio Church of God in 1934, which later became the Worldwide Church of God, and expanded its reach through radio and television broadcasts. Published literature on biblical teachings, with a focus on prophecy and the end times, influencing a significant following. Renowned for establishing the annual Feast of Tabernacles, attracting thousands of attendees worldwide. Authored several books, including 'The Proof of the Bible' and 'The Eighth Day' that detailed his religious perspectives and interpretations.
Continue ReadingDonald Malarkey
American sergeant and author of memoir
Born
July 31st, 1921 104 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 96 years old
Served as a sergeant during World War II in Easy Company of the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, part of the 101st Airborne Division. Participated in key battles including D-Day and the Battle of Carentan. After the war, contributed to the historical narrative of his experiences by co-authoring the memoir 'Easy Company: The Story of a Brotherhood', which detailed the camaraderie and challenges faced by the soldiers. The memoir gained further recognition through the acclaimed HBO miniseries 'Band of Brothers'.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 25th
Martha Norelius
American swimmer and Olympic medalist
Born
January 22nd, 1909 116 years ago
Died
September 25th, 1955 70 years ago — 46 years old
Swedish-born American swimmer competed in the early 20th century. Participated in the 1924 Paris Olympics, where significant achievements occurred in individual and team events. Won two medals in swimming, contributing to the United States' success in aquatic sports during that era. An accomplished athlete in freestyle events, established records that stood for years, demonstrating exceptional skill and dedication to the sport.
Continue ReadingMadeline-Ann Aksich
Canadian businesswoman and philanthropist
Born
1956 69 years ago
Died
September 25th, 2005 20 years ago — 49 years old
A businesswoman and philanthropist from Canada founded and led several successful enterprises. Played a significant role in various charitable initiatives, focusing on health and education. Contributed to community development through substantial donations and volunteer efforts. Remembered for dedication to improving the lives of others through business and philanthropic efforts.
Continue ReadingMiller Huggins
Baseball manager and player
Born
March 27th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
September 25th, 1929 96 years ago — 50 years old
Contributed significantly to Major League Baseball both as a player and manager. Played as a second baseman for the American League teams St. Louis Cardinals and the New York Yankees. Managed the New York Yankees from 1918 until 1929, leading the team to three American League championships. His managerial career was marked by a strong emphasis on discipline and strategy, garnering respect within the sport.
Continue ReadingPablo Verani
Argentinian lawyer and politician
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
September 25th, 2013 12 years ago — 75 years old
Graduated in law and entered politics, serving in various governmental roles. Played a significant role in the legislative process in Argentina, focusing on legal reforms. Held positions in local and national governments, including a term as a provincial senator. Contributed to issues surrounding justice and human rights.
Continue ReadingClaudio Baggini
Roman Catholic prelate in Italy
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
September 25th, 2015 10 years ago — 79 years old
Baggini served as a prominent Roman Catholic prelate. Ordained as a priest, contributed to various ecclesiastical roles within the church. Appointed as bishop of the diocese, he led the congregation with a focus on spiritual guidance and community service. Engaged in interfaith dialogue and worked towards improving relations between different religious communities. Actively participated in regional church initiatives and emphasized social issues during his clerical career.
Continue ReadingJosé Montoya
American poet and academic with awards
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
September 25th, 2013 12 years ago — 81 years old
Contributed to the Chicano literary movement and focused on themes of identity and culture in his works. Authored several poetry collections, including 'The Last Supper,' which emphasized the experiences of Mexican Americans. Served as a professor at California State University, Sacramento, influencing many students in the field of creative writing. Actively published in various literary journals and anthologies, giving voice to underrepresented communities through his poetry.
Continue Reading