Steve Gaines
American singer-songwriter, guitar player
Born in 1949, this musician rose to prominence as a guitarist and songwriter in the southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd. His contributions to the band's sound were significant during the early 1970s. He joined Lynyrd Skynyrd shortly before the release of their acclaimed album "Street Survivors". The album featured popular tracks that showcased his guitar skills and songwriting. Tragically, his career was cut short when he died in a plane crash in 1977, which also claimed the lives of several band members.
Joined Lynyrd Skynyrd before "Street Survivors" release
Contributed to tracks like "What's Your Name" and "That Smell"
Died in the 1977 Lynyrd Skynyrd plane crash
Other People Born on September 14th
Deshaun Watson
American football quarterback
Born
September 14th, 1995 30 years ago
Played college football at Clemson University, leading the team to a national championship in 2016. Drafted by the Houston Texans in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft. Became the youngest quarterback to start in an NFL playoff game in 2018. Achieved Pro Bowl selections in 2018 and 2019. Traded to the Cleveland Browns in 2022.
Continue ReadingMae Boren Axton
American singer-songwriter with hits
Born
September 14th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
April 9th, 1997 29 years ago — 82 years old
Contributed significantly to the music industry as a singer-songwriter. Composed numerous songs, including 'Heartbreak Hotel,' which became a hit for Elvis Presley. Worked as a music promoter and nurtured the careers of various artists. Played a vital role in the country music genre, both in songwriting and performance.
Continue ReadingGary Harris
Basketball player with NBA success
Born
September 14th, 1994 31 years ago
Played college basketball at Michigan State University before entering the NBA Draft. Selected by the Chicago Bulls in the first round and immediately traded to the Denver Nuggets. Played multiple seasons with the Nuggets, contributing to the team's playoff runs. Known for scoring ability and strong defensive skills. Won a gold medal with the USA Basketball team at the FIBA U19 World Championship in 2013.
Continue ReadingJan Masaryk
Czech politician and diplomat
Born
September 14th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
March 10th, 1948 78 years ago — 61 years old
Served as Czechoslovakia's foreign minister from 1940 to 1948. Played a crucial role in the establishment of Czechoslovakia after World War I. Advocated for democracy, human rights, and the importance of international cooperation. Involved in the Czechoslovak government-in-exile during World War II, working to represent Czechoslovakia's interests. His death in 1948 was surrounded by controversy and remains a subject of investigation.
Continue ReadingDaniel O'Shaughnessy
Finnish footballer, played for HJK Helsinki
Born
September 14th, 1994 31 years ago
A Finnish footballer who primarily plays as a defender. Began professional career with AC Oulu before moving to HJK Helsinki in 2016. Contributed significantly to HJK Helsinki's successes in domestic competitions and European tournaments. Represented Finland at various youth levels before making senior international appearances for the national team.
Continue ReadingAbioseh Nicol
Physician and academic diplomat
Born
September 14th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1994 31 years ago — 70 years old
A physician and academic, contributed to medical education and public health initiatives. Served as a diplomat representing Sierra Leone. Played a significant role in addressing health issues both in Sierra Leone and internationally. Engaged in various academic institutions to promote medical research and education.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 20th
Gunnar Nilsson
Race Car Driver, 1977 Swedish GP Winner
Born
November 20th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1978 47 years ago — 29 years old
Born on November 20, 1948, in Sweden, a prominent race car driver made significant contributions to motorsport during the 1970s. Competed in Formula One, securing one Grand Prix victory during the 1977 season. Known for driving with the Shadow team, showcased exceptional skills on the racetrack, rising to prominence within the circuit. Tragically, a battle with cancer led to an early death in 1986, but his legacy continues to inspire many in the racing community.
Continue ReadingFrancesco Maria I della Rovere
Duke of Urbino, military leader
Born
1490 536 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1538 487 years ago — 48 years old
Served as the Duke of Urbino from 1516 until 1538. Engaged in military leadership as a condottiero. Participated in various conflicts in Italy during the Italian Wars. Worked to strengthen the duchy and its governance, supporting arts and architecture in Urbino.
Continue ReadingOscar de la Renta
Fashion designer known for elegant gowns
Born
July 22nd, 1932 93 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2014 11 years ago — 82 years old
An influential fashion designer, this individual studied at the School of Fine Arts in Santo Domingo and later moved to Paris to work for renowned fashion houses. In the 1960s, began a successful career in New York City, establishing a personal brand that became synonymous with sophistication and elegance. The designer created stunning gowns that were worn by celebrities and socialites, helping to elevate women's fashion. Became celebrated for an aesthetic that blended traditional craftsmanship with modern styles. The contributions to the field of fashion included ready-to-wear collections and bridal wear, ensuring a lasting legacy within the industry.
Continue ReadingMax Kohnstamm
Historian and diplomat; European integration
Born
May 22nd, 1914 111 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2010 15 years ago — 96 years old
Contributed to the understanding and promotion of European integration during the 20th century. Played a significant role in the establishment of the European Community and its foundational treaties. Served as the first Secretary-General of the European Movement and held various prestigious academic and diplomatic positions throughout a long career.
Continue ReadingDon James
American football coach and player.
Born
December 31st, 1932 93 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2013 12 years ago — 80 years old
An American football player and coach, served as the head coach at the University of Washington from 1975 to 1992. Achieved significant success during tenure, leading the team to a national championship in 1991. Before coaching, played as a quarterback at the University of Washington and later served as an assistant coach at various institutions. Developed a reputation for strong defensive strategies and a disciplined approach to coaching, contributing to the team's consistent performances in the Pac-10.
Continue ReadingMichael Massee
American actor, starred in 'The Crow'
Born
September 1st, 1952 73 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2016 9 years ago — 64 years old
An American actor, notable for performances in film and television. Gained prominence for a role in the film 'The Crow' in 1994, where played the character Funboy. Appeared in the TV series '24' as the character Ira Gaines. Contributed to various projects throughout a career that spanned several decades, showcasing versatility across genres.
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