What Happened This Year 2018

People Who Died in 2018

Nancy Wilson

Singer and actress, part of jazz trio
Born
February 20th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 81 years old

An influential figure in music and television, this artist gained prominence for contributions to jazz and pop music. Notable works include hits such as 'Guess Who I Saw Today' and collaborations with various artists, displaying versatility across genres. In television, standout performances included appearances on shows such as 'The Dean Martin Show' and 'Soul Train'. The significance of this artist in the industry extended beyond music, with accolades including three Grammy Awards for outstanding vocal performances. Throughout a career that spanned several decades, diverse styles and deep emotional expression characterized the work.

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Mehrdad Pahlbod

Iranian politician and cultural leader
Born
March 16th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 101 years old

Born in 1917, an influential figure in Iranian politics and culture who served in various governmental roles. Held the position of Minister of Culture and Arts and contributed to the development of national cultural policies. Focused on promoting arts and education within Iran. Engaged in numerous projects aimed at preserving Iranian heritage and traditions during a transformative period in the nation's history.

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Burton Richter

Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
March 22nd, 1931 93 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 87 years old

A physicist who contributed significantly to the field of particle physics. Richter served as a professor at Stanford University and directed the Stanford Linear Accelerator Center. Significant research included the discovery of the J/ψ meson in collaboration with others at the SLAC. This work provided crucial insights into the structure of matter and confirmed the existence of the charm quark.

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Brendan Byrne

Governor of New Jersey
Born
April 1st, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 94 years old

Served as the 47th Governor of New Jersey from 1974 to 1982. Played a key role in progressive reforms in the state, particularly in education and environmental policy. Prior to governorship, served as a judge and in the New Jersey Assembly. His administration emphasized tax reform, including the introduction of the state income tax, and established new policies aimed at improving public services.

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Wally Moon

Baseball player and coach, All-Star
Born
April 3rd, 1930 94 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 88 years old

This individual played professional baseball as an outfielder and first baseman. Debuting in Major League Baseball with the St. Louis Cardinals, he had a successful career which included participation in three World Series. Recognized for exceptional hitting ability and consistency, this player earned an All-Star selection in 1959 and contributed to the Cardinals' 1964 World Series title. After retiring as a player, he transitioned to coaching, imparting knowledge to younger athletes in various capacities.

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Lester James Peries

Sri Lankan film director and producer
Born
April 5th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 99 years old

A prominent figure in Sri Lankan cinema, this director, screenwriter, and producer made significant contributions to the film industry. He directed over 20 feature films, many of which received national and international acclaim. One landmark work, 'Mahagedara', showcased the complexities of rural life and is celebrated for its artistic achievements. His work often combined traditional Sri Lankan themes with innovative cinematic techniques, influencing generations of filmmakers in the region.

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Teresa Gisbert Carbonell

Bolivian architect and art historian
Born
November 30th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 92 years old

Born in Bolivia, contributed significantly to the fields of architecture and art history. Played a crucial role in the preservation of heritage sites and the promotion of Bolivian art. Served as a professor at the Universidad Mayor de San Andrés in La Paz. Authored several influential texts on architecture, including analyses of pre-Columbian, colonial, and modern architecture in Bolivia.

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Leila Abashidze

Georgian actress in film and theater
Born
August 1st, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 89 years old

Born in Georgia, an actress gained recognition for work in theatre and cinema. Early career included performances in prominent Georgian theatrical productions. Achieved fame with roles in films during the 1950s and 1960s, particularly in 'The Wishing Tree' and 'The Legend of the White Stallion'. Contributed to the cultural landscape of Georgian performing arts through numerous performances. Directed and nurtured younger talent in the acting community, leaving a legacy within the theatre world.

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Karunanidhi

Indian politician and screenwriter
Born
June 3rd, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 94 years old

A prominent Indian politician and influential screenwriter, served as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu for five terms. Contributed significantly to Tamil cinema through screenwriting, with works that shaped the industry. Played a key role in the Dravidian movement, advocating for social justice and cultural identity in Tamil Nadu. Involved in politics from a young age, founded the political party DMK and was instrumental in implementing various social welfare programs during his tenure.

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