Troy Smith

Businessman, founder of Sonic Drive-In

Troy Smith - Business Leaders born 1922
Born

1922
104 years ago

Died
Category

Business Leaders

Country

United States

Links & References

Founded Sonic Drive-In, a fast-food restaurant chain known for its drive-in service and varied menu options. Established the first location in 1953, which focused on providing a unique dining experience where customers could order from their cars. Expanded the chain significantly, leading to thousands of locations across the United States. The company became recognized for its distinctive use of carhops and drive-thru services, creating a popular dining trend. Continued to innovate within the fast-food industry until passing away in 2009.

Founded Sonic Drive-In in 1953

Expanded chain to thousands of locations

Other People Who Died on October 26th

Akashi Motojiro

Japanese General and military leader
Born
September 1st, 1864 162 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1919 106 years ago — 55 years old

Served in the Imperial Japanese Army and held significant positions during key conflicts. Commanded troops during the First Sino-Japanese War and the Russo-Japanese War. Participated in the establishment of Japan's military strategies and operations during the early 20th century.

Continue Reading

Arnold Greenberg

Businessman, co-founder of Snapple
Born
September 2nd, 1932 94 years ago
Died
October 26th, 2012 13 years ago — 80 years old

Co-founded Snapple in 1972, an innovative beverage company known for its flavored teas and juices. Expanded the company's reach significantly throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Contributed to the branding and marketing strategies that propelled Snapple into the mainstream market. Snapple was acquired by Quaker Oats in 1994, marking a significant moment in the beverage industry.

Continue Reading

Sir John Gell

Parliamentarian commander during Civil War
Born
June 22nd, 1593 433 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1671 354 years ago — 78 years old

Born in 1593, this figure became prominent during the English Civil War as a Parliamentarian commander. Actively participated in military operations against Royalist forces. Commanded troops in notable engagements in the Midlands, particularly around the cities of Derby and Nottingham. Held a baronetcy, reflecting significant landownership. Following the Civil War, contributed to the political landscape of the time through parliamentary service.

Continue Reading

Hoyt Axton

Singer-songwriter and actor, 'The New Christy Minstrels'
Born
March 25th, 1938 88 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1999 26 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent figure in American music and film, contributed significantly as a singer-songwriter and actor. Played a key role in the folk music revival of the 1960s. Wrote several hit songs, including 'Joy to the World,' which became a major success for the band Three Dog Night. Appeared in movies such as 'Five Easy Pieces' and 'The Black Stallion.' His work often blended elements of country, folk, and rock.

Continue Reading

John Graves Simcoe

General and politician in Upper Canada
Born
February 25th, 1752 274 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1806 219 years ago — 54 years old

Served as a British Army general and politician, holding the position of the first Lieutenant Governor of Upper Canada from 1791 to 1796. Pioneered the establishment of the legislative and judicial systems in the region. Advocated for the abolition of slavery in Upper Canada, leading to the passage of the Act Against Slavery in 1793. Initiated the development of infrastructure, including roads and settlements, that facilitated growth in the province. Contributed to military efforts in the American Revolutionary War and worked to secure Canadian territories for the British.

Continue Reading

Jackson Scholz

American Olympic runner, Gold medalist
Born
March 15th, 1897 129 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1986 39 years ago — 89 years old

Born in 1897, achieved prominence as a competitive runner in the early 20th century. Excelled in the 200-meter sprint, winning a gold medal at the 1920 Antwerp Olympics. Contributed to the development of American track and field through subsequent coaching roles and mentorship of young athletes. Competed successfully in national championships, establishing a legacy in the sport of athletics.

Continue Reading