What Happened This Year 1985

People Who Died in 1985

Pauli Murray

Civil rights activist and lawyer
Born
November 20th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
1985 41 years ago — 75 years old

An influential civil rights activist, women's rights activist, and lawyer. Played a key role in formulating legal strategies against racial and gender discrimination. Contributed to the founding of the National Organization for Women. Served as the first African American woman ordained as an Episcopal priest. Authored several significant works, including 'Song in a Weary Throat,' a personal account of the civil rights struggle.

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Julie Vega

Filipino actress and singer, 'Bituing Walang Ningning'
Born
May 21st, 1968 58 years ago
Died
1985 41 years ago — 17 years old

Became a prominent actress and singer in the Philippines during the 1980s. Rose to fame with the iconic role in the television series 'Bituing Walang Ningning'. Additionally, gained popularity through various films and gained acclaim for musical performances. Faced health challenges and passed away at a young age but left a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.

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Michel Audiard

French director and screenwriter
Born
May 15th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
1985 41 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent director and screenwriter in French cinema, contributions spanned several decades. Focused primarily on the creation of dialogue-driven films, often featured themes of humor and social commentary. Collaborated with numerous actors and produced scripts that resonated with audiences. Achieved recognition for works that blended comedy and drama, leaving a lasting mark on French film.

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Johnny Mokan

Baseball player for St. Louis Cardinals
Born
September 23rd, 1895 130 years ago
Died
1985 41 years ago — 90 years old

Played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball from 1919 to 1927. Mokan played for the St. Louis Cardinals and the Chicago Cubs. Accumulated a career batting average of .282 with 7 home runs and 214 runs batted in. Participated in the 1926 World Series, contributing to the Cardinals' championship victory.

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Eithne Coyle

Irish republican revolutionary leader
Born
January 3rd, 1897 129 years ago
Died
1985 41 years ago — 88 years old

Involved in the Irish War of Independence and the subsequent Civil War, played a key role in the fight for Irish independence. Coyle participated in the 1916 Easter Rising, which sought to end British rule in Ireland. Active in the political sphere after the war, focused on promoting the republican cause and advocating for the rights of Irish citizens. Coyle's contributions included mobilizing support and organizing efforts for the republican movement.

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Germaine Krull

Photographer and political activist
Born
November 20th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
1985 41 years ago — 88 years old

Originated from Germany, this photographer contributed significantly to the field of photography, particularly in the 1920s and 1930s. Emphasizing a modernist approach, work included photojournalism and avant-garde techniques. A notable project involved documenting the lives of diverse social classes, reflecting social issues of the time. Additionally, engaged in political activism, actively promoting socialist ideas and defending workers' rights, particularly during turbulent periods in Germany. The dynamic works often captured the spirit of activism and the human condition, making a lasting imprint in the world of photography.

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J. Willard Marriott

Businessman, founded Marriott Corporation
Born
September 17th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1985 41 years ago — 85 years old

An American businessman established a hospitality empire through the founding of the Marriott Corporation. Initially started with a root beer stand in 1927, expanded into the restaurant business and later entered the hotel industry. The first hotel, the Twin Bridges Motor Hotel, opened in Washington, D.C. in 1957. The company grew to include numerous hotel brands and restaurants, shaping the modern hospitality industry. Throughout the career, emphasized quality service and innovation in guest experiences. The company continues to be a leader in the hospitality field today.

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Johnny Desmond

American singer with big band success
Born
November 14th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
1985 41 years ago — 66 years old

Born in 1919, a prominent American singer achieved fame during the big band era. Collaborated with major orchestras and bands, enchanting audiences with a powerful vocal style. Gained popularity in the 1940s and 1950s, recording multiple hit songs and performing extensively on radio and television. Known for a smooth delivery and emotional interpretations, he contributed to the musical landscape of his time. Continued to perform throughout his career, showcasing versatility across genres.

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José de Rivera

American soldier and sculptor
Born
September 18th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
1985 41 years ago — 81 years old

Served in the United States Army during World War II. After the war, pursued a career in visual arts, particularly in sculpture. Created numerous works that demonstrated a focus on abstract forms and kinetic sculptures. His career as an artist culminated in exhibiting at prominent galleries and institutions across the United States.

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