What Happened This Year 2015

People Who Died in 2015

Willie Royster

Baseball Player for the Chicago White Sox
Born
April 11th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 61 years old

Played professional baseball in Major League Baseball (MLB) as an outfielder. Career spanned parts of five seasons during the 1970s and 1980s, primarily with the Chicago White Sox. Made his MLB debut in 1979 and concluded his playing career in 1983. Continued involvement in baseball after retirement, including coaching roles.

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Ibrahim Sulayman Muhammad Arbaysh

Saudi Arabian terrorist leader
Born
July 7th, 1979 46 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 36 years old

Born in 1979, engaged in terrorist activities primarily associated with Islamist extremism. Involved in the formation and leadership of terrorist groups that operated in Saudi Arabia, contributing to violent acts against the state and civilians. Played a significant role in planning and executing attacks aimed at destabilizing local governance and promoting radical ideologies.

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Daevid Allen

Australian singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
January 13th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 77 years old

An influential figure in the music scene, played a key role in the formation of the band Soft Machine and later founded the group Gong. His work spanned multiple genres, blending progressive rock, jazz, and psychedelia. Throughout the career, embraced experimental sounds, contributing to the development of a unique musical style. Released several solo albums, showcasing a distinct approach to songwriting and performance. Engaged in artistic collaborations that furthered the exploration of avant-garde music.

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Johnny Gimble

Country western swing musician
Born
May 30th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent country and western swing musician, this individual played the fiddle with various notable bands, including the Texas Playboys. Contributions to the genre included performances alongside major artists and participation in influential recordings. The musician's talents extended to television, where appearances on shows like the Grand Ole Opry further solidified a legacy in country music. This artist earned recognition as a master of the fiddle, known for a unique style that blended traditional elements with innovative improvisation.

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Cabu

French cartoonist and satirist
Born
January 13th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent French cartoonist, his work was characterized by sharp political satire and social commentary. He contributed to several major publications, including 'Charlie Hebdo' and 'L'Humanité'. His distinctive style often featured exaggerated caricatures and poignant humor directed at political figures and societal issues. The tragic event of the January 2015 terrorist attack on 'Charlie Hebdo' marked a pivotal moment in his legacy, culminating in widespread international support for freedom of expression. Throughout his career, he illustrated countless cartoons and engaged in public discussions about art and satire.

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Kep Enderby

Australian lawyer and Attorney-General
Born
June 25th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 89 years old

An Australian lawyer, judge, and politician served as the 23rd Attorney-General for Australia. Held various roles within the legal and political realms, including as a judge. Contributed to the legal landscape and governmental processes during tenure, focusing on legal reforms and public service.

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Jim Mutscheller

American football player and coach
Born
March 31st, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 85 years old

Drafted by the Baltimore Colts in 1953, played as a tight end and linebacker. Participated in three NFL championships during the 1950s. Transitioned to coaching after retirement in 1961, leading various college teams. Coached at institutions such as the University of Richmond and the University of Maryland, contributing to the development of future players.

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Billy Joe Royal

American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
April 3rd, 1942 83 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 73 years old

Originated in Georgia, started a music career in the 1960s with a blend of country and pop influences. Gained recognition for hits that featured a smooth vocal style. Achieved commercial success with singles such as "Down in New Orleans" and "Cherry Hill Park." Career expanded into the 1970s with notable performances and recordings, leading to a revival in popularity in the 1980s. Worked with various artists and contributed to the sound of southern rock. Continued to perform and record until the later years of life, leaving a legacy in American music.

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Keith Harris

Ventriloquist and singer with comedic acts
Born
September 21st, 1947 77 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent ventriloquist and singer from England, recognized for performances that featured puppets including the character Orville the Duck. Achieved success on television, particularly with appearances on shows such as 'The Keith Harris Show' and 'The Royal Variety Performance'. Gained popularity in the 1980s and 1990s, attracting audiences with humorous ventriloquism routines and musical performances, often involving his puppet sidekicks. After decades in entertainment, continued to perform in various venues until later years.

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