Mary Lou Williams
American jazz pianist and composer
A prominent figure in jazz music, contributed significantly to the development of various jazz styles. Williams performed with notable musicians including Duke Ellington and Benny Goodman. She composed a wide range of pieces, including sacred music and big band scores. Williams also played a pivotal role in mentoring younger musicians, helping to shape the next generation of jazz artists. Throughout her career, she worked to elevate the genre and bridge the gap between traditional jazz and its modern forms.
Composed the classic jazz piece 'The Flatted Fifth'
Mentored musicians such as Thelonious Monk and Dizzy Gillespie
Performed at the White House for President Franklin D. Roosevelt
Other People Born on May 8th
Melissa Gilbert
Actress and director of Little House
Born
May 8th, 1964 62 years ago
An American actress and director recognized for work in television and film. Achieved prominence through the role of Laura Ingalls Wilder in the series 'Little House on the Prairie.' Directed episodes of both 'Little House on the Prairie' and 'The Wonder Years.' Contend in various dramatic and comedy roles throughout a lengthy career, including appearances in stage productions and reality television.
Continue ReadingMladen Markač
Croatian General, Operation Storm leader
Born
May 8th, 1955 71 years ago
Born in 1955, a Croatian general served prominently during the Croatian War of Independence. Commanded the 1st Guards Brigade and played a significant role in Operation Storm, a major military offensive that contributed to the end of the conflict. After the war, held various positions within the Croatian military and government. In 2011, acquitted of war crimes charges by the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia, leading to a focus on military reform and veterans' affairs in Croatia.
Continue ReadingJeff Wincott
Canadian actor and martial artist
Born
May 8th, 1956 70 years ago
A Canadian actor and martial artist, this individual gained recognition for roles in action films and television series during the 1980s and 1990s. Major works include appearances in the series 'Night Hunter' and films such as 'The Last Dragon'. Martial arts skills complemented a career that moved between film and television, showing a strong presence in the action genre. In addition to performing, involvement in martial arts served to enhance authenticity in roles portrayed on screen.
Continue ReadingBrooks Newmark
Businessman and British politician
Born
May 8th, 1958 68 years ago
A businessman and politician held the title of Lord of the Treasury. Served as a Member of Parliament for Braintree from 2005 until 2017, representing the Conservative Party. Contributed to various parliamentary committees and was involved in financial oversight and public finance matters. Resigned from parliamentary duties in 2017 following a controversy that arose from his personal conduct.
Continue ReadingBarbara Howard
Canadian sprinter and educator
Born
May 8th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
January 26th, 2017 9 years ago — 96 years old
A prominent Canadian sprinter, contributed to athletics in Canada during the mid-20th century. Competed in the 1948 Summer Olympics in London, representing Canada in the women's 100 meters and 4x100 meter relay events. Achieved notable success in national competitions, securing multiple championships. Had a significant career as an educator, influencing physical education and athletics in schools across Canada.
Continue ReadingJohn Snagge
English journalist and news presenter
Born
May 8th, 1904 122 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1996 30 years ago — 91 years old
A journalist and news presenter in England, played a significant role in broadcasting and news reporting. Worked at the BBC where provided coverage of major events, including World War II. Was the main presenter of the BBC's television news from the inception of the television service in 1955 until retirement in the early 1980s. His contributions to journalism included not only reporting but also the presentation of news in a clear and authoritative manner.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 28th
Cornelia Frances
English-Australian actress, The Young Doctors
Born
April 7th, 1941 85 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2018 8 years ago — 77 years old
Born in England and later moving to Australia, a notable actress specialized in television. Significant roles included appearances in the long-running Australian soap operas, particularly 'The Young Doctors' and 'Home and Away'. Her performances contributed to the popularity of these shows, making her a well-recognized figure in the Australian entertainment industry. Over the years, engaged in various theater productions and television dramas, showcasing versatility across different genres.
Continue ReadingReynaldo Rey
Actor and screenwriter from 'The Milagro Beanfield War'
Born
January 27th, 1940 86 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2015 11 years ago — 75 years old
An American actor and screenwriter, celebrated for contributions to film and television. Worked on various projects over several decades, prominently featuring in 'The Milagro Beanfield War' and 'The Undercover Brother'. Actively participated in the entertainment industry, both in front of and behind the camera, demonstrating a commitment to storytelling through diverse characters.
Continue ReadingJens Christian Skou
Chemist and Nobel Laureate in Chemistry
Born
October 8th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2018 8 years ago — 99 years old
A Danish chemist and physiologist contributed significantly to the understanding of ion transport in cells. In 1957, conducted groundbreaking research on Na+/K+ ATPase, an enzyme crucial for maintaining sodium and potassium balance across cell membranes. Established foundational concepts in biochemistry and physiology that have influenced various fields of medical research. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1997 for discoveries related to ion transport.
Continue ReadingCarter Glass
American politician and treasury secretary
Born
January 4th, 1858 168 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1946 80 years ago — 88 years old
Served as the 47th Secretary of the Treasury from 1918 to 1920. Played a key role in the establishment of the Federal Reserve System and contributed to the development of banking legislation during his tenure. Had a significant impact on fiscal policy and economic reform in the early 20th century. Worked as a publisher and editor before entering politics, influencing public discourse through journalism.
Continue ReadingMark Eaton
Basketball player and sportscaster
Born
January 24th, 1957 69 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2021 5 years ago — 64 years old
Played for the Utah Jazz in the National Basketball Association (NBA) from 1982 to 1993. Renowned for defensive skills, earned the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award twice. After retirement, transitioned to sports broadcasting, providing analysis for various networks.
Continue ReadingH. Jones
Colonel, Victoria Cross recipient
Born
May 14th, 1940 86 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1982 44 years ago — 42 years old
Served as a British Army officer and distinguished himself during the Falklands War. Received the Victoria Cross for gallantry in the battle at Goose Green. Demonstrated exceptional leadership and bravery under fire. Engaged in military operations that were critical to the success of British forces.
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