Tom Lawless
Baseball player and manager, 1987 World Series
Played professional baseball as an infielder from 1982 to 1992, spending time with the St. Louis Cardinals, Toronto Blue Jays, and the Philadelphia Phillies. Achieved a notable career highlight by participating in the 1987 World Series with the Cardinals. Transitioned into coaching and management roles, contributing to various minor league teams and serving as a manager in professional baseball.
Participated in the 1987 World Series
Managed various minor league teams
Played for the St. Louis Cardinals
Other People Born on December 19th
Bobby Layne
American football quarterback and coach
Born
December 19th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
1986 40 years ago — 60 years old
Played professional American football as a quarterback primarily with the Detroit Lions. Led the Lions to three NFL championships in the 1950s. Transitioned into coaching after retirement from playing, sharing insights gained throughout a successful career in the league. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1967, highlighting a significant impact on the sport and recognition among peers.
Continue ReadingHoward Sackler
Playwright and Screenwriter of "The Great White Hope"
Born
December 19th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
1982 44 years ago — 53 years old
A prominent American playwright and screenwriter, contributions include the acclaimed 1967 play "The Great White Hope," which explored the racial dynamics in boxing. The play received a Tony Award for Best Play and was adapted into a film in 1970, further increasing its visibility and significance. Sackler also wrote for television and contributed to filmmaking, enhancing narratives around societal issues. His work often reflected the cultural landscape of America during the civil rights movement, as it engaged with themes of race and identity. Throughout his career, he garnered recognition within the theater community and left a lasting legacy.
Continue ReadingJay Arnette
Basketball player, NCAA champion
Born
December 19th, 1938 87 years ago
A former basketball player who played at the collegiate level for the University of Kentucky. Contributed significantly to the team's success, leading to an NCAA championship in 1958. Played professionally in the American Basketball Association (ABA) for teams such as the New Jersey Americans. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, sharing knowledge of the game with future generations.
Continue ReadingLee Myung-bak
Politician and former President of South Korea
Born
December 19th, 1941 84 years ago
A businessman and politician held the position of the 10th President of South Korea from 2008 to 2013. Prior to his presidency, served as the mayor of Seoul from 2002 to 2006. Focused on economic growth and infrastructure development during the presidency. Advocated for a policy of pragmatism in foreign relations, particularly with North Korea.
Continue ReadingGene Okerlund
Wrestling announcer and interviewer
Born
December 19th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2019 7 years ago — 76 years old
Career in professional wrestling spanned several decades, beginning in the 1970s. Served as a prominent announcer and interviewer in the American wrestling industry, gaining a reputation for engaging interviews and a signature catchphrase. Worked with organizations including the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) and World Championship Wrestling (WCW). Became a familiar face on television during major wrestling events and pay-per-views. His contributions helped elevate the status of wrestling as a form of entertainment, solidifying his legacy in the sport.
Continue ReadingCornell Dupree
American guitarist with notable recordings
Born
December 19th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 69 years old
An influential American guitarist, contributed significantly to the sound of soul and R&B music throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Worked extensively as a session musician in New York, where many standout works were recorded. Collaborated with various artists, showcasing exceptional guitar skills across numerous genres. Participated in the production of celebrated albums and singles, gaining recognition for musicianship and creativity within the industry.
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