What Happened This Year 2014

People Who Died in 2014

Jane Byrne

Chicago's first female mayor
Born
May 24th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2014 12 years ago — 81 years old

Served as the 50th Mayor of Chicago from 1979 to 1983, marking a significant moment in the city's history as the first woman to hold the position. Implemented policies to improve housing, education, and urban development. Focused on revitalizing neighborhoods and addressing crime rates during tenure. Part of the Democratic Party and had previous roles within city government, including as the chair of the Chicago Transit Authority.

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Akkineni Nageswara Rao

Indian actor and film producer
Born
September 20th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2014 12 years ago — 91 years old

An influential figure in Telugu cinema, contributions spanned several decades, beginning in the 1940s. Starred in numerous iconic films, including 'Devadasu' and 'Malliswari'. Established a successful production company, focusing on high-quality regional cinema. Played a significant role in the development of the film industry in Andhra Pradesh, promoting artistic innovation. Received several awards throughout the career, including the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for lifetime achievement in Indian cinema.

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Steven Fromholz

Singer-songwriter and poet from Texas
Born
June 8th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
2014 12 years ago — 69 years old

A prominent figure in the American folk music scene, crafted a distinctive sound that blended elements of country and rock. Released several albums, including 'Fromholz' and 'The Great American Song', which showcased original compositions and poetic lyrics. Involved in various music festivals and often performed at venues across Texas. Also noted for contributions to poetry, reflecting influences from nature and personal experiences. Engaged with audiences through storytelling and intimate performances.

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Louise Brough

American tennis player, Wimbledon champion
Born
March 11th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
2014 12 years ago — 91 years old

An accomplished tennis player, made significant contributions to the sport during the 1940s and 1950s. Won the Wimbledon singles title in 1955 and achieved multiple Grand Slam doubles titles with various partners. Competed in the U.S. Championships and was a prominent figure in American tennis, representing the country in international competitions.

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Bobby Womack

Singer-songwriter and musician
Born
March 4th, 1944 82 years ago
Died
2014 12 years ago — 70 years old

A singer-songwriter and musician, achieved recognition for blending genres such as soul, R&B, and rock. Began his career in the early 1960s as a member of the Valentinos, known for the hit 'It's All Over Now', which was later covered by The Rolling Stones. Developed a successful solo career, releasing albums like 'The Poet' and 'Understanding', and produced notable songs such as 'Across 110th Street' and 'Lookin' for a Love'. His music often addressed themes of love and heartache, resonating with audiences worldwide.

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Isaiah "Ikey" Owens

Keyboard player and producer for Jack White
Born
December 1st, 1975 50 years ago
Died
2014 12 years ago — 39 years old

A prominent keyboard player and producer, contributed significantly to several musical projects. Collaborated with artist Jack White, playing on acclaimed works including the albums 'Blunderbuss' and 'Lazaretto'. Worked with various bands, enhancing their sound and style. Led a successful career in live performances and studio recordings before passing away in 2018.

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Iemasa Kayumi

Voice actor in Japanese anime projects
Born
October 31st, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2014 12 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent voice actor in Japanese anime, contributed to the industry from the 1980s onward. Featured in numerous notable series and films, bringing characters to life through voice work. Became a recognized figure for roles in popular anime including 'Naruto' and 'One Piece'. Worked with various production companies and gained respect from peers for vocal versatility and artistry.

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Theodore Van Kirk

Navigator of the Enola Gay
Born
February 27th, 1921 105 years ago
Died
2014 12 years ago — 93 years old

A soldier and pilot, contributed to World War II efforts as a navigator on the Enola Gay, the aircraft that dropped the atomic bomb on Hiroshima. Served in the U.S. Army Air Forces and played a significant role in the successful completion of the mission that aimed to bring a swift end to the war in the Pacific. Continued a career in aviation after the war, engaging in various roles in the aerospace industry.

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Paul von Ragué Schleyer

American chemist and academic expert
Born
February 27th, 1930 96 years ago
Died
2014 12 years ago — 84 years old

Born in 1930, this American chemist contributed significantly to the field of chemistry through work in organic synthesis and chemical theory. With a robust academic career, this individual held professorships at prominent universities and published extensively in various scientific journals. Research focused on the development of new methodologies in organic chemistry, particularly in stereochemistry and the synthesis of complex molecules.

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