What Happened This Year 1988

People Who Died in 1988

Tom Adair

American songwriter and screenwriter
Born
June 15th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent songwriter and composer, contributed significantly to the American music and film industries during the 20th century. Collaborated with several notable figures and created music that has been featured in films and television. Worked on projects that encompassed various genres and styles, demonstrating a versatile ability to engage diverse audiences. Lived throughout key moments in American cultural history, reflecting the musical evolution of the time.

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Jeff Donnell

American actress in film and television
Born
July 10th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 67 years old

Gained recognition as an actress during the mid-20th century, primarily in the film and television industries. Featured in the popular television series 'The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet' as well as the film 'The Lady from Shanghai'. Versatile in performances, appeared in various genres including comedy and drama. Contributed significantly to early television shows and films, earning a reputation for engaging character portrayals.

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Babe Pratt

Ice hockey player and Hall of Famer
Born
January 7th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 72 years old

Played professional ice hockey in the NHL from 1935 to 1948. Provided strong defensive skills and offensive contributions while playing for the New York Rangers and the Toronto Maple Leafs. Won the Hart Memorial Trophy in 1944 as the NHL's most valuable player. Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1966.

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Memphis Slim

American blues singer and songwriter
Born
September 3rd, 1915 109 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent figure in the Chicago blues scene, Memphis Slim gained recognition as a singer, songwriter, and pianist. His career began in the early 1940s, and he became well-known for his distinctive singing style and piano playing. He recorded numerous songs that contributed to the blues genre, often reflecting the experiences of African Americans in the South. Slim played a significant role in popularizing blues music globally, particularly through performances in Europe. His song 'Everyday I Have the Blues' is one of his most famous works and has been covered by many artists. He also helped introduce and promote younger blues artists throughout his career.

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Dorothy Adams

American character actress
Born
January 8th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 88 years old

A prominent character actress, a career spanned several decades in film and television. Gained recognition for roles in classic films and television series, showcasing a range of characters in both comedic and dramatic performances. Frequently collaborated with various directors and featured in ensemble casts that contributed to notable productions. Built a reputation for her ability to bring depth to supporting roles and was active in the entertainment industry from the 1930s until the 1970s.

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Rogier van Otterloo

Dutch conductor and composer
Born
December 11th, 1941 83 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 47 years old

A conductor and composer who significantly contributed to classical music in the Netherlands. Served as the principal conductor of the Netherlands Radio Orchestra and held positions with various orchestras. Composed numerous works, particularly in the realm of orchestral music. Collaborated with several prominent musicians and ensembles, enhancing the contemporary classical music scene in the country.

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John C. Holmes

American pornographic film actor
Born
August 8th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 44 years old

A prominent actor in the adult film industry, this individual gained notoriety during the 1970s and 1980s. Featured in numerous films, he became a leading figure of the genre. His performances in titles such as 'Behind the Green Door' and 'Meatball Sundae' solidified his status. He was known not just for his on-screen work but also for his controversial life off-screen. This included legal issues and personal struggles that came to light over the years. Despite these challenges, he remained a significant part of adult film history until his passing.

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E. B. Ford

Biologist and geneticist
Born
April 23rd, 1901 124 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 87 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of genetics and ecology, particularly in the study of population genetics. Played a key role in the development of genetic theories and methodologies. Conducted extensive research on plant and animal breeding, understanding genetic variation, and ecological relationships. Authored influential works that are widely referenced in biological sciences.

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Florence Eldridge

American actress in theatre and film
Born
September 5th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 87 years old

Active in film and theatre, this actress appeared in notable productions from the 1920s through the 1950s. Gained recognition for performances in 'The Eternal Road' and 'The Last Letter'. Worked with prominent figures in the industry and contributed to various stage productions. Served as a prominent figure in the dramatic arts during her career.

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