Roxie Roker

American actress from The Jeffersons

Roxie Roker - American actress from The Jeffersons
Born

August 28th, 1929
95 years ago

Died

December 2nd, 1995
29 years ago — 66 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United States

Links & References

An American actress gained recognition for her role as Helen Willis on the CBS sitcom The Jeffersons, which aired from 1975 to 1985. Roker's performance contributed to the show's depiction of African American middle-class life and its comedic approach to social issues. In addition to her television career, she appeared in various stage productions and had roles in films. Roker also had a notable impact on television representation during her time.

Starred as Helen Willis on The Jeffersons

Appeared in the movie The Black Gestapo

Acted in multiple theatrical productions

Other People Born on August 28th

David Fincher

Director of The Social Network
Born
August 28th, 1962 62 years ago

A director and producer, recognized for contributions to film and television. Directorial debut occurred with the film 'Alien 3'. Achieved acclaim with films such as 'Fight Club', 'Se7en', and 'Gone Girl'. Won an Academy Award for Best Director for 'The Social Network'. In television, produced and directed the series 'House of Cards' and 'Mindhunter'.

Continue Reading

George Whipple

Pathologist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
August 28th, 1878 146 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1976 49 years ago — 97 years old

A physician and pathologist contributed significantly to medical science. Conducted pioneering research in the field of blood and its components, particularly the role of the liver in red blood cell production. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1934 for his work on the metabolism of the liver. Worked at the University of Rochester, serving in various capacities and influencing medical education and research.

Continue Reading

Jack Kirby

Comic book artist and writer of Marvel
Born
August 28th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
February 6th, 1994 31 years ago — 76 years old

An influential comic book artist and writer who co-created iconic characters for Marvel Comics. Played a critical role in the development of the superhero genre and contributed to several landmark comic series. Collaborated with Joe Simon to create Captain America in 1941, establishing a cultural phenomenon. Worked with Stan Lee on The Fantastic Four, Thor, and the X-Men, which became foundational titles for the Marvel Universe. Known for pioneering dynamic storytelling techniques and unique artistic styles, significantly shaping the trajectory of comic book artistry.

Continue Reading

Marcello Gandini

Italian automotive designer, Lamborghini Miura
Born
August 28th, 1938 86 years ago
Died
2024 1 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1938, a prominent automotive designer, contributed significantly to the automotive industry through innovative and influential designs. Worked at various companies, including Bertone, where notable designs took shape. His work included the Lamborghini Miura, often regarded as one of the first supercars, which revolutionized the sports car market. Additional contributions included designs for the Lancia Stratos, known for its success in rally racing, and the Alfa Romeo Montreal. The uniqueness of designs combined performance and aesthetics, marking a significant era in automotive styling.

Continue Reading

Anthony Ulrich

Duke of Brunswick-Lüneburg
Born
August 28th, 1714 310 years ago
Died
1774 251 years ago — 60 years old

Born in 1714, a member of the House of Welf, held the title of Duke of Brunswick-Lüneburg. Involved in regional politics in Germany, participated in the governance and administration of the duchy. His leadership spanned critical periods, influencing local policies and alliances during his reign. Contributed to the cultural and economic development of the region through patronage and support of local institutions.

Continue Reading

William Cohen

Lawyer and U.S. Secretary of Defense
Born
August 28th, 1940 84 years ago

An American lawyer and politician served as the 20th Secretary of Defense from 1997 to 2001 under President Bill Clinton. Prior to this role, significant contributions included representing Maine in the U.S. Senate from 1973 to 1997 with a focus on national defense and foreign policy. Cohen also held the position of U.S. Representative from 1973 to 1975. Among achievements, authored legislation pertaining to defense reform and oversaw military operations during his tenure as Secretary of Defense, including the response to the Kosovo War.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 2nd

Adelaide of Saxe-Meiningen

Queen consort of the United Kingdom
Born
1792 233 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 1849 175 years ago — 57 years old

Married to King William IV of the United Kingdom, she served as queen consort from 1830 until 1837. Her marriage was notable for its companionship and mutual support. After the death of William IV, she focused on charitable activities and participated in various social causes. She was particularly involved in the welfare of the poor and promoted education for girls. Following her husband's reign, she remained a respected figure in the royal family and fulfilled numerous ceremonial duties.

Continue Reading

Jenny von Westphalen

German author and playwright
Born
1814 211 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 1881 143 years ago — 67 years old

An author and playwright, contributed significantly to the literary landscape of the 19th century. Engaged in philosophical discussions and was a close collaborator with notable figures. Explored themes of social justice and labor rights through writings. Her partnership with a prominent philosopher influenced her worldview and literary output. Authored works that were reflective of contemporary social issues in industrial Europe.

Continue Reading

Helmut Duckadam

Romanian football goalkeeper, European Champion
Born
April 1st, 1959 66 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 2024 0 years ago — 65 years old

Played as a goalkeeper for several Romanian clubs, most notably Steaua Bucharest. Gained international recognition after being instrumental in Steaua Bucharest's victory in the 1986 European Cup final against Barcelona, saving two penalty kicks during the shootout. Represented Romania at the national level, contributing to the team's efforts in international competitions.

Continue Reading

Max Weber

German economist and sociologist
Born
April 21st, 1864 161 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 1974 50 years ago — 110 years old

Contributed extensively to the fields of sociology and economics. Developed the concept of the Protestant Ethic and its relationship to capitalism. Analyzed bureaucratic authority and social stratification. Worked at various academic institutions, including the University of Freiburg and the University of Munich, and published influential works such as "The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism" and "Economy and Society."

Continue Reading

Paul Heinrich von Groth

German scientist in mineralogy
Born
June 23rd, 1843 182 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 1927 97 years ago — 84 years old

Contributed extensively to the field of mineralogy, focusing on crystallography and the study of minerals. Published several influential works, including 'Die Mineralien der Mexikanischen Republik'. Engaged in research that laid the foundations for modern mineral classification and analysis. Served in academic positions, shaping the study of geology and mineralogy in Germany.

Continue Reading

Elizabeth Hardwick

Literary critic and novelist with 'Sleepless Nights'
Born
July 27th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 2007 17 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1916, a prominent American literary critic, novelist, and short story writer. Contributed to various publications including 'The New York Review of Books'. Authored several novels and essays, often exploring themes of identity and society. Achieved recognition for 'Sleepless Nights', a semi-autobiographical novel examining life, love, and the complexities of modern existence. Also involved in feminist literary criticism, providing insight into the works of contemporaries and earlier authors. Sustained a lasting influence on the literary landscape through critique and promotion of both established and emerging writers.

Continue Reading