Soma Edirisinghe

Sri Lankan businesswoman and philanthropist

Soma Edirisinghe - Activists & Humanitarians born 1939
Born

1939
86 years ago

Died
Category

Activists & Humanitarians

Country

Sri Lanka

Links & References

A prominent business figure in Sri Lanka, significant contributions made to various industries through leadership roles in several enterprises. Established a foundation focused on charitable work, assisting disadvantaged communities. Engaged in initiatives to improve education and healthcare access, which demonstrated a commitment to societal welfare. Active in multiple organizations aimed at empowering women in business and promoting social change.

Founded the Soma Edirisinghe Foundation

Led multiple business ventures in Sri Lanka

Advocated for women's empowerment in business

Other People Who Died on November 5th

Guy Lombardo

Violinist and bandleader, 'Auld Lang Syne'
Born
June 19th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1977 48 years ago — 75 years old

Born in Canada, became a prominent bandleader in the United States. Founded the Royal Canadians, which gained popularity in the 1920s and 1930s. Blended traditional pop and big band music, leading to a long career that included annual New Year's Eve broadcasts. Lombardo's orchestra was synonymous with New Year's celebrations for decades, performing 'Auld Lang Syne' as the clock struck midnight. He played for audiences in venues such as the Waldorf Astoria in New York City and recorded numerous albums throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Adolf Brudes

Polish-German racing driver
Born
October 15th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1986 39 years ago — 87 years old

Competed in various European racing events during the early 20th century. Achieved notable success in the European Championship for Drivers. Participated in multiple races, showcasing driving talent and technical skill.

Continue Reading

Alexis Carrel

Surgeon and biologist, Nobel laureate
Born
June 28th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1944 81 years ago — 71 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of surgery and biology. Conducted pioneering work in vascular surgery and developed techniques for organ transplantation. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1912 for contributions to surgical techniques and organ preservation. Worked extensively in tissue culture, laying foundational aspects for future biological research. Served as a professor at the Rockefeller Institute for Medical Research, where further research into organ transplantation and surgical methods occurred.

Continue Reading

René Goscinny

French author of the Asterix comics
Born
August 14th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1977 48 years ago — 51 years old

An influential French author and illustrator, contributed significantly to the world of comics, particularly through the creation of the iconic Asterix series. Collaborated with illustrator Albert Uderzo to bring to life the adventures of a small Gaulish village resisting Roman occupation. The series debuted in 1959 and quickly gained international popularity, translated into numerous languages. Goscinny's unique storytelling and humor set a new standard for comic books, influencing generations of writers and illustrators.

Continue Reading

Shirley Verrett

Soprano and actress with opera accolades
Born
May 31st, 1931 94 years ago
Died
November 5th, 2010 15 years ago — 79 years old

An accomplished American soprano and actress, contributions included performances in leading roles at renowned opera houses. Significant works included roles in operas such as "Carmen" and "Aida". Achievements also spanned the concert stage and Broadway, showcasing versatility in both operatic and musical theater forms. A graduate of the University of California, Los Angeles, initial career developments occurred with the New York City Opera and performance at the Metropolitan Opera.

Continue Reading

Alexandre de Rhodes

French missionary and linguist
Born
March 15th, 1591 434 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1660 365 years ago — 69 years old

Served as a Jesuit missionary in Vietnam, where significant contributions to the introduction and establishment of the Latin alphabet for the Vietnamese language occurred. Published the first Vietnamese dictionary and a grammar book, which laid the foundation for modern Vietnamese orthography. Worked extensively with Vietnamese language and culture, deeply influencing the development of written Vietnamese.

Continue Reading