What Happened This Year 2011

People Who Died in 2011

John Mackey

American football player and tight end
Born
September 24th, 1941 83 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 70 years old

Played in the National Football League as a tight end. Started career with the Baltimore Colts and later played for the New York Jets. Renowned for contributions to the game, particularly in the position of tight end. Key player in the Baltimore Colts' victory in Super Bowl V. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1992, recognizing a successful career and influence on the sport.

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Norman Foster Ramsey Jr.

Physicist, Nobel Prize in Physics recipient
Born
August 27th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 96 years old

Contributions to the field of physics included work on atomic beams and maser technology. Served as a professor at Harvard University, influencing generations of physicists. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1989 for contributions to the development of methods to use atomic fields to measure frequency, which became essential in atomic clocks.

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J. Ernest Wilkins Jr.

Nuclear scientist and engineer
Born
November 27th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1923, contributed to the Manhattan Project during World War II. Earning a PhD in nuclear engineering, focused research on reactor design and radiation shielding in the 1950s. Served as an educator at several esteemed institutions, emphasizing the importance of mathematical applications in engineering. Actively involved in promoting science and technology, particularly among underrepresented groups in the field. Received recognition for efforts in nuclear safety and mathematical modeling.

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Ray Bryant

Pianist and composer of jazz music
Born
December 24th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent jazz pianist and composer, contributed significantly to the genre through performances and recordings. Developed a unique style that blended jazz with blues and gospel elements. Collaborated with many notable artists throughout the career. Wrote compositions that have since become standards in the jazz repertoire. Toured widely, showcasing musical talents across various venues and festivals.

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Kathy Kirby

Singer known for 'Dance On' hit
Born
October 20th, 1940 84 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 71 years old

Born in England, a prominent singer achieved success in the 1960s with a series of chart-topping singles. Gained popularity with the song 'Dance On,' which climbed to the top of the UK charts. Frequently performed on television and became a fixture on shows like 'The Ed Sullivan Show.' Notably represented the UK in the Eurovision Song Contest 1965 with the song 'I Belong.'

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Anne Sharp

Soprano and actress in opera and film
Born
October 24th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 95 years old

A Scottish soprano and actress, gained recognition for performances in both opera and film. Engaged in the performing arts from an early age, demonstrated exceptional vocal talent and stage presence. Acted in a production of "The Merry Widow" and participated in numerous operatic presentations throughout her career. Contributed to radio and recordings, showcasing versatility as a performer. Continued to influence the arts community with performances that blended singing and acting.

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Dennis Ritchie

Computer Scientist, created C language
Born
September 9th, 1941 83 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 70 years old

Contributed significantly to computer science by creating the C programming language, a foundational language for modern software development. Co-developed the Unix operating system, which has influenced many others and led to the development of various programming innovations. Worked at Bell Labs, collaborating with other prominent scientists in the field. Authored several influential texts and guides on computer programming.

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Danny Litwhiler

Baseball player and coach, MLB outfielder
Born
August 31st, 1916 108 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 95 years old

Played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball from 1939 to 1952, representing teams such as the St. Louis Cardinals, Philadelphia Phillies, and Cincinnati Reds. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, contributing to various teams in the minor leagues and the major leagues. Litwhiler also was notable as an educator and mentor, emphasizing player development throughout his coaching career. Developed a reputation for emphasizing sportsmanship and skill in young athletes.

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Trish Keenan

Singer-songwriter of Broadcast band
Born
September 28th, 1968 56 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 43 years old

Originated from England, contributions to music included serving as the lead vocalist and guitarist for the band Broadcast. The band emerged in the late 1990s, intertwining elements of electronic and psychedelic pop. Released several albums, including "Tender Buttons" and "Haha Sound," which received critical acclaim. Passed away in 2011, leaving behind a significant influence on the music genre.

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