What Happened This Year 2015

People Who Died in 2015

Jeralean Talley

Super-centenarian
Born
May 23rd, 1899 127 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 116 years old

Born on May 23, 1899, reached the age of 116 years, becoming one of the oldest verified living people in the world. Spent much of life in Michigan and became a super-centenarian recognized for longevity. Celebrated birthdays with family and community recognition throughout later years. Involved in various community activities and remained active in social events until advancing age limited participation.

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Nick Koback

American baseball player and golfer
Born
July 19th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 80 years old

Played as a professional baseball player and later pursued a career in golf. Competed in Major League Baseball for the Chicago Cubs and the Milwaukee Braves during the 1960s. Transitioned to golf, participating in both amateur and professional tournaments. Demonstrated skills in multiple sports.

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Sheila Kitzinger

Childbirth activist and author
Born
March 29th, 1929 97 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 86 years old

An influential childbirth activist and author, focused on women's rights in maternity care. Published numerous books on childbirth and women's experiences, including 'The Childbirth Book' and 'Women as Mothers.' Engaged in discussions surrounding the medicalization of childbirth and advocated for women's autonomy in childbirth choices. Worked alongside various organizations to promote midwifery and respectful maternity care, contributing to the dialogue on women's rights in healthcare settings.

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Michael Masser

Songwriter and music producer
Born
March 24th, 1941 85 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent songwriter and music producer, contributions spanned several decades, with notable collaborations with various artists. Masser achieved recognition for writing songs for top charting artists and produced successful albums. Significant works include 'The Greatest Love of All' and 'Touch Me in the Morning' performed by Whitney Houston and Diana Ross, respectively. His work in the music industry helped shape popular music during the 1970s and 1980s.

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Lon Simmons

Baseball sportscaster and player
Born
July 19th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 92 years old

A prominent figure in American baseball, the individual started a career as a player, participating primarily in the outfield for teams such as the New York Giants and the Philadelphia Phillies. Transitioning to broadcasting, the individual became a well-respected sportscaster, providing commentary for various radio and television stations. Contributions to the sport included calling games for the San Francisco Giants and the Oakland Athletics, showcasing expertise in baseball analysis and commentary. In 2004, the individual was honored with induction into the Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame.

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Erol Büyükburç

Turkish pop singer-songwriter and actor
Born
March 22nd, 1936 90 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 79 years old

Erol Büyükburç emerged as a significant figure in Turkish pop music during the 1960s and 1970s. With a career spanning several decades, he not only composed and performed popular songs but also acted in films. His musical style blended traditional Turkish music with contemporary pop elements, attracting a wide audience. Büyükburç's contributions to the Turkish music scene made him a beloved personality, and his works resonated with the cultural landscape of the time.

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Vincent Bugliosi

Lawyer and author of 'Helter Skelter'
Born
August 18th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent American lawyer and author, recognized for prosecuting high-profile cases and writing extensively on the legal system. Achieved national attention for the successful prosecution of Charles Manson and several co-defendants in the infamous Manson Family murders. Authored numerous books, including 'Helter Skelter', which details the Manson case and became a bestseller. Additionally, wrote works on legal themes and societal issues, showcasing a strong command of narrative and legal analysis. Served as a prominent legal commentator in media discussions around justice and criminality.

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T. M. Wright

Author and illustrator of fiction works
Born
September 9th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 68 years old

An American author and poet, produced a body of work that blends elements of horror, fantasy, and science fiction. Gained recognition for contributions to American literature with novels, short stories, and illustrated works. Published several acclaimed novels, often exploring the depths of the human psyche through supernatural themes. Also worked as an illustrator, adding unique visual interpretations to personal writing. Contributions to genre fiction have earned a loyal readership.

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Sybil Stockdale

American activist, National League of Families
Born
November 25th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 91 years old

Co-founded the National League of Families in 1967 to advocate for the rights of American prisoners of war and missing in action during the Vietnam War. Worked to raise awareness about the conditions of POWs and mobilized public support for their families. Engaged in numerous activities to promote the cause, including organizing demonstrations and appearing before congressional committees. Stockdale's efforts contributed to significant policy discussions regarding the treatment of POWs and the responsibilities of the U.S. government towards their families.

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