What Happened This Year 1981

People Who Died in 1981

Robert Russell Bennett

Composer and conductor of Broadway musicals
Born
June 15th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 87 years old

Bennett studied composition and graduated from the University of Kansas. He gained recognition for orchestrating many Broadway productions, particularly collaborations with renowned lyricists and composers. His work on shows such as 'Oklahoma!' and 'South Pacific' significantly contributed to the golden age of American musical theater. Bennett also composed original works and concert pieces, showcasing versatility in his musical expertise.

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Grunya Sukhareva

Psychiatrist specializing in child psychology
Born
November 11th, 1891 133 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 90 years old

Focused on child and adolescent psychiatry, contributed significantly to the understanding of autism in children. Worked as a lecturer at several universities, influencing future generations of psychiatrists. Established research methodologies that emphasized the need for early diagnosis and intervention in child psychiatric disorders. Authored several seminal papers that advanced the field and provided clarity on diagnostic criteria.

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Cozy Cole

American drummer and bandleader
Born
October 17th, 1909 115 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 72 years old

Born in 1909, a prominent American drummer, significantly contributed to jazz and swing music. Gained recognition for leading his own band and performed with notable jazz musicians. Enjoyed a successful career during the big band era and beyond. Achieved considerable acclaim for the hit single 'Topsy', which became a jazz standard. His drumming style influenced generations of percussionists. Regularly appeared on various television shows, further solidifying a legacy in both live performance and recorded music.

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Giuseppe Tosi

Italian discus thrower, Olympics medalist
Born
May 25th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 65 years old

Famed discus thrower achieved significant success in athletics during the mid-20th century. Competed at the 1948 London Olympics, earning a bronze medal in the discus event. Participated in numerous national and international competitions, establishing a strong reputation within the sport. Contributed to Italy's prominence in track and field during this era.

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Jacob H. Gilbert

American lawyer and politician
Born
June 17th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 61 years old

Practiced law in the United States for several decades and served in various political positions. Held significant roles within local government and contributed to legislative efforts in his state. Involved in multiple legal and political organizations, influencing both legal practices and policies. Advocated for issues pertinent to his constituents and engaged in community service throughout his career.

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Marcel Cadieux

Canadian diplomat and civil servant
Born
June 17th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 66 years old

A Canadian civil servant and diplomat served as Ambassador to the United States from 1970 to 1975. Held various roles within the Canadian government, contributing to foreign relations and diplomacy during a pivotal time in Canada-U.S. relations. Contributed to discussions on trade, defense, and environmental policies between the two countries, fostering a deeper understanding and collaboration. Engaged in diplomacy during a period marked by significant events, including the Vietnam War and energy crises. His expertise in international relations shaped diplomatic strategies that emphasized mutual interests and cooperation.

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Dimitrios Hatzis

Greek novelist and journalist
Born
November 13th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 68 years old

A noted Greek novelist and journalist, contributed significantly to Greek literature during the 20th century. Hatzis wrote various novels exploring themes of identity, culture, and social issues in Greece. His works often reflected the historical and political context of the time. Hatzis also served as a journalist, providing commentary and analysis on important events in Greece, impacting the literary and journalistic landscape.

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Martyn Lloyd-Jones

Welsh preacher and physician
Born
December 20th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 82 years old

Worked as a physician before becoming a prominent preacher in the 20th century. Served as the minister of Westminster Chapel in London for over 30 years, where delivered influential sermons and wrote extensively on theology. Contributed to the revival of Reformed theology and played a key role in the establishment of the Evangelical movement within the British context.

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Steve Currie

English bass player, famous for role in glam rock band
Born
May 20th, 1947 77 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 34 years old

A prominent English bass player, contributed significantly to the glam rock genre in the 1970s. Achieved recognition as a member of the band T. Rex, known for its chart-topping hits. Played on some of the band’s most successful albums, enhancing their distinctive sound. Participated in live performances that showcased the band's dynamic stage presence, contributing to their popularity during the height of the glam rock era.

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