What Happened This Year 2005

People Who Died in 2005

Ted Radcliffe

American baseball player and manager
Born
July 7th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 103 years old

A professional baseball player and manager, contributed significantly in the Negro leagues. During the 1920s and 1930s, played as a catcher for various teams, most notably the Birmingham Black Barons. Transitioned into management, leading teams in the Negro leagues. His career spanned several decades, showcasing notable talent and leadership in baseball.

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Maurice Hilleman

Microbiologist and vaccine developer
Born
August 30th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent microbiologist and vaccinologist contributed to the development of over 40 vaccines. Played a pivotal role in creating vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella, significantly reducing the incidence of these diseases. Spent a significant part of his career at Merck & Co., where research focused on vaccine safety and efficacy. Hilleman's work laid the foundation for modern immunology and has saved millions of lives globally.

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Franco Mannino

Italian composer and conductor
Born
April 25th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1924, an Italian composer and conductor created numerous operas and orchestral works. Served as the principal conductor for the Teatro Massimo in Palermo. Directed and composed music for various theatrical productions, including works for both stage and film. His compositions typically blend traditional Italian music with contemporary styles.

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Molly Yard

American feminist and activist leader
Born
July 6th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 93 years old

A prominent feminist leader with significant contributions to women's rights and gender equality. Served as the president of the National Organization for Women (NOW) from 1987 to 1991, strengthening the organization's advocacy efforts. Actively engaged in legislative battles for women's reproductive rights, workplace equality, and anti-violence initiatives. Advocated for the ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment and worked tirelessly to advance feminist causes throughout her career.

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Myron Floren

Accordionist on The Lawrence Welk Show
Born
November 5th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 86 years old

An American accordionist and pianist gained prominence through performances on The Lawrence Welk Show, showcasing musical talent throughout the 1950s to the 1980s. Celebrated for a distinct playing style and engaging personality, contributed significantly to the show's success and popularity, becoming a familiar face for audiences. Developed an early interest in music, mastering the accordion and later performing alongside renowned musicians, solidifying a place in American popular music culture. Continued to perform and record music, influencing the accordion community and aspiring musicians.

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Candy Barr

Model, dancer, actress in adult films
Born
July 6th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 70 years old

An American model, dancer, and actress rose to prominence in the 1950s as a notable figure in the adult film industry. Barr gained a reputation for her performances and presence in various productions during the golden age of adult entertainment. In addition to film work, she performed as a dancer in nightclubs, showcasing her talents and contributing to the era's entertainment landscape. Over the years, Barr's prominence fostered a legacy within the adult film community, influencing subsequent generations of performers.

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Sammi Smith

Country music singer-songwriter, singer
Born
August 5th, 1943 81 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 62 years old

Born in 1943, a prominent American country music singer-songwriter gained popularity in the 1970s. The signature song, "Help Me Make It Through the Night," reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and earned a Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance in 1971. Smith recorded several albums and contributed to the genre's development, showcasing a distinct style that resonated with audiences. Over the years, her work continued to influence other artists and shape the landscape of country music.

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Rick Mahler

Baseball player and coach, Atlanta Braves
Born
August 5th, 1953 71 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 52 years old

Played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1979 to 1991, participating primarily with the Atlanta Braves. After his playing career, transitioned into coaching roles in various baseball programs. Assisted in the development of young players and contributed to training staff, further enriching the baseball community.

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Ray Peterson

American pop singer with 'Tell Laura I Love Her'
Born
April 23rd, 1939 85 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 66 years old

Born in 1939, a pop singer rose to prominence in the late 1950s. Released the hit single 'Tell Laura I Love Her' in 1960, which reached the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Associated with the traditional pop genre, recorded several albums throughout the 1960s, capturing the attention of audiences with heartfelt ballads and smooth melodies. Later in his career, embraced the country music genre and continued to perform, maintaining a dedicated fan base. His contributions to music continue to resonate in the pop and country genres.

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