What Happened This Year 2014

People Who Died in 2014

Marvin Barnes

Professional basketball player, NBA
Born
July 27th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
September 8th, 2014 11 years ago — 62 years old

A professional basketball player played for teams including the Detroit Pistons and the Rhode Island Gulls during the 1970s and 1980s. Achieved recognition in the American Basketball Association (ABA) while with the Gulls, where notable performances contributed to the team's success. Participated in the 1974 NBA Draft, selected by the Pistons, and had a notable college career at Providence College, earning All-American honors before turning professional. Struggled with personal issues that impacted playing career, but left a mark in professional basketball through his scoring ability and rebounding skills.

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Magda Olivero

Italian soprano with notable opera performances
Born
March 25th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
September 8th, 2014 11 years ago — 104 years old

A prominent Italian soprano, celebrated for a distinguished career in opera spanning several decades. Gained acclaim for interpretations of operatic roles in works such as Puccini's 'Tosca' and 'Madama Butterfly'. Made significant contributions to the world of opera through various performances at prestigious venues, including La Scala in Milan. Had a reputation for both dramatic and lyrical soprano roles, captivating audiences with vocal artistry.

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S. Truett Cathy

Founder of Chick-fil-A fast food chain
Born
March 14th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
September 8th, 2014 11 years ago — 93 years old

Founded Chick-fil-A, a popular fast food restaurant chain specializing in chicken sandwiches. Established the first restaurant in 1946, which led to the expansion of the brand across the United States. Demonstrated a commitment to closed operations on Sundays, which became a distinctive aspect of the company’s identity. Contributed to various community initiatives and charitable efforts through the WinShape Foundation.

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George Zuverink

Baseball player with notable MLB tenure
Born
August 20th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
September 8th, 2014 11 years ago — 90 years old

A professional baseball player, contributed significantly to Major League Baseball during the 1950s. Primarily played as a pitcher, Zuverink appeared in games for teams like the Detroit Tigers, the Baltimore Orioles, and the Chicago White Sox. His career spanned from 1948 to 1957. He had a successful stint primarily as a pitcher, showcasing skills that garnered attention across multiple teams. After retiring from professional baseball, stayed involved in the sport through various capacities, influencing the game after his playing days.

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Graham Joyce

English author and educator
Born
October 22nd, 1954 71 years ago
Died
September 9th, 2014 11 years ago — 59 years old

An English author and educator, contributions spanned across various genres primarily focusing on fantasy and horror. Gained recognition through novels such as 'The Silent Land' and 'Some Kind of Fairy Tale'. Joyce's writing style often blended the fantastical with the real, earning him a dedicated readership. In addition to novels, he was involved in teaching creative writing, sharing insights and experiences with aspiring writers. His literary contributions were acknowledged within the literary community, reflecting a commitment to storytelling and education.

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Montserrat Abelló i Soler

Spanish poet and translator of works
Born
1918 107 years ago
Died
September 9th, 2014 11 years ago — 96 years old

A prominent figure in Spanish literature, focused on poetry and translation. Contributed significantly to bringing the works of international authors to Spanish-speaking audiences. Published multiple poetry collections, exploring themes of identity, love, and nature. Translation work included significant works from Catalan to Spanish, enriching the literary landscape. Actively engaged in promoting Catalan culture through literature.

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Firoza Begum

Bangladeshi singer of Nazrul Sangeet
Born
July 28th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
September 9th, 2014 11 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent singer from Bangladesh, particularly recognized for contributions to Nazrul Sangeet, which is the music of Kazi Nazrul Islam. Began her career in the 1940s and gained popularity through radio broadcasts and performances. Played a crucial role in popularizing the genre, influencing a generation of artists. Received multiple accolades for her work and dedicated her talents to the promotion of Bangladeshi music and culture.

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George Spencer

American baseball player for the Giants
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
September 10th, 2014 11 years ago — 88 years old

An American professional baseball player participated in Major League Baseball. Played as a pitcher primarily for the New York Giants during the 1930s. Concluded pitching career with a respectable win-loss record and a significant contribution to the team's performance in various seasons. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, continuing involvement in the sport at a developmental level.

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Edward Nelson

Mathematician and academic contributor
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
September 10th, 2014 11 years ago — 82 years old

Contributed significantly to mathematical logic and set theory. Worked at the University of California, Los Angeles. Developed models for mathematical foundations, particularly in relation to the independence of certain mathematical propositions. Published various influential papers, enhancing the understanding of provability and mathematical truth. Actively participated in academic discourse, influencing generations of mathematicians through teaching and mentorship.

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