Mitchell Parish
Songwriter of popular standards
A Lithuanian-American songwriter, crafted numerous popular songs throughout the 20th century. Wrote lyrics for the timeless standard "Star Dust," originally composed by Hoagy Carmichael. Contributed to the music world with songs such as "The Nearness of You" and "Watermelon Weather," which have become staples in jazz and popular music. Many songs achieved significant success and continue to be covered by various artists.
Wrote lyrics to "Star Dust"
Contributed to "The Nearness of You"
Created "Watermelon Weather"
Other People Born on July 10th
Werner Best
German police officer and jurist
Born
July 10th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
June 23rd, 1989 37 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent police officer and jurist played a significant role in law enforcement and legal administration in Germany. Involved in various legal reforms and served during turbulent historical periods. Engaged in post-war rehabilitation efforts and provided expertise in legal matters. Held positions that required balancing law enforcement with legal principles and human rights considerations.
Continue ReadingRonnie James Dio
Heavy metal singer and songwriter
Born
July 10th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
May 16th, 2010 16 years ago — 67 years old
One of the prominent figures in heavy metal music, this artist contributed significantly to the genre through powerful vocals and innovative songwriting. Starting a career in the 1960s, played with bands such as Elf, Rainbow, Black Sabbath, and formed Dio. The debut album from Dio, 'Holy Diver,' released in 1983, achieved significant commercial success and solidified a legacy within the heavy metal community. This artist's influence extended beyond music, contributing to the culture of heavy metal through distinctive stage presence and lyrical themes.
Continue ReadingMary McLeod Bethune
Educator and civil rights leader
Born
July 10th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1955 71 years ago — 79 years old
An educator and civil rights leader, established a private school for African American girls in Daytona Beach, Florida, in 1904. Instrumental in forming the National Council of Negro Women in 1935. Served as an advisor to President Franklin D. Roosevelt, contributing to policies affecting African Americans. Advocated for education and civil rights throughout her life, promoting opportunities for black citizens.
Continue ReadingDavid Brinkley
Television journalist and news anchor
Born
July 10th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
June 11th, 2003 23 years ago — 82 years old
Brinkley began a career in journalism in the late 1940s, initially working for the NBC network. He gained prominence as a co-anchor of the evening news in the 1950s, delivering comprehensive coverage of significant events such as the 1963 assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Brinkley's signature style combined straightforward reporting with insightful commentary. Transitioning to ABC in the 1970s, he anchored the network's evening news program, earning multiple awards for journalistic excellence. His perspective on major political events and unique storytelling ability garnered a substantial audience throughout his career.
Continue ReadingAdam Petty
NASCAR driver and winner of major races
Born
July 10th, 1980 45 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2000 26 years ago — 19 years old
American race car driver competed in NASCAR's top series. Participated in the Cup Series from 1998 to 2000, primarily driving the No. 45 car for Petty Enterprises. Achieved notable success at tracks such as New Hampshire International Speedway, where secured a victory in 1999, becoming the first fourth-generation driver to win a NASCAR race. Tragically passed away during a race in 2000 at New Hampshire, drawing attention to safety in motorsports and prompting changes in race car design and track safety protocols.
Continue ReadingReg Smythe
English cartoonist of Andy Capp
Born
July 10th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
June 13th, 1998 28 years ago — 80 years old
An English cartoonist, created the comic strip Andy Capp in 1957, which featured the titular character known for his humorous take on working-class life and pub culture. The comic strip gained widespread popularity and was syndicated in numerous newspapers worldwide. Smythe's work reflected social issues of the time through satire and caricature. He continued to produce the comic for decades, contributing to its legacy in the world of British comics. He received accolades for his influence on the comic genre and was recognized for his artistic style and wit.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 31st
Semyon Timoshenko
Soviet Commander in WWII
Born
1894 132 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1970 56 years ago — 76 years old
Led Soviet military operations during the Winter War against Finland and the Eastern Front of World War II. Contributed to significant battles such as Stalingrad and Kursk. Held various high-ranking positions within the Red Army throughout his career, implementing strategies that shaped Soviet military tactics during the war. Served as a Marshal of the Soviet Union, playing a crucial role in the post-war reconstruction of the Soviet military structure.
Continue ReadingHans-Dietrich Genscher
German politician and Vice-Chancellor
Born
March 21st, 1927 99 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2016 10 years ago — 89 years old
Born in 1927, served as a soldier in the German Army during World War II. Entered politics post-war and became a prominent figure in the Free Democratic Party (FDP). Served as Vice-Chancellor and Minister of Foreign Affairs in Germany from 1974 to 1992, playing a significant role in German reunification and European integration. His diplomatic efforts were crucial in negotiating treaties and fostering relations during a period of significant change in Europe.
Continue ReadingMuhammad Wakkas
Bangladeshi teacher and parliamentarian
Born
January 15th, 1952 74 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2021 5 years ago — 69 years old
Born in 1952, a notable figure in Bangladeshi education and politics. Served as a teacher and held a significant role in parliament as a member of the Awami League. Engaged in various educational initiatives aimed at improving literacy and access to education in Bangladesh. Contributed to legislative discussions and policies affecting the educational sector in the country.
Continue ReadingCharles Amarin Brand
French archbishop and religious leader
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2013 13 years ago — 93 years old
Served as an archbishop in France, significantly involved in ecclesiastical matters. Led various initiatives within the Catholic Church and contributed to theological discussions. Actively participated in the development of the church's community outreach programs. Held leadership roles that emphasized the importance of faith in societal contexts.
Continue ReadingPatrick Demarchelier
Fashion photographer, worked with Vogue
Born
August 21st, 1943 82 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2022 4 years ago — 78 years old
French fashion photographer gained prominence in the fashion industry, capturing iconic images for magazines. Received acclaim for a distinctive style that blended fine art and commercial photography. Collaborated with numerous celebrities and brands, creating memorable campaigns that influenced fashion trends. Photographed notable fashion editorials and campaigns for Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, and other prestigious publications, establishing a significant presence in the world of fashion photography.
Continue ReadingCharles Best
Physiologist who co-discovered insulin
Born
February 27th, 1899 127 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1978 48 years ago — 79 years old
A physiologist and biochemist contributed significantly to the discovery of insulin. Collaborated with Frederick Banting during experiments that led to the purification and isolation of insulin from the pancreas of dogs. This groundbreaking work had profound implications for diabetes treatment. Held a long-standing academic career, teaching and conducting research at the University of Toronto, and published numerous scientific papers on the functions of the pancreas. Later, served as the head of the department of physiology at the university.
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