What Happened This Year 2021

People Who Died in 2021

Harry Reid

American politician and senator
Born
December 2nd, 1939 86 years ago
Died
December 28th, 2021 4 years ago — 82 years old

Served as a U.S. Senator from Nevada from 1987 to 2017. Held the position of Senate Majority Leader from 2007 to 2015. Managed significant legislative initiatives and played a critical role in healthcare reform and energy policy. Prior to the Senate, served as the 25th Lieutenant Governor of Nevada from 1971 to 1975 and was a member of the Nevada Assembly. Focused on issues pertinent to the state and national interests throughout Congressional career.

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Betty White

Actress and television personality
Born
January 17th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2021 4 years ago — 99 years old

An American actress, game show panelist, and television personality, played significant roles in television history. Best known for appearances on 'The Golden Girls' and 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show'. Her career spanned decades, with work in various formats including sitcoms, documentaries, and game shows. In addition to entertainment, engaged in animal rights activism, advocating for animal welfare causes throughout life.

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Tommy Kirk

American actor in Disney films
Born
December 10th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 80 years old

An actor from the United States gained fame through performances in the 1960s, particularly in Disney films. Achievements include playing the role of 'Travis' in 'Old Yeller' and starring in 'The Shaggy Dog.' Also featured in the successful series 'The Mickey Mouse Club.' His work contributed to the popularity of family-oriented cinema during that era.

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Fiona Caldicott

Psychiatrist and psychotherapist
Born
January 12th, 1941 85 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 80 years old

Became a prominent figure in psychiatry and psychotherapy, focusing on mental health ethics and the use of personal health information. Played a key role in the development of privacy safeguarding in the NHS and contributed significantly to the field of medical ethics. Served as the first National Director for Health Informatics at NHS England and has also been involved in various educational and advisory roles relating to mental health practices.

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Chris Barber

Trombonist and bandleader in jazz
Born
April 17th, 1930 96 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1930, a prominent English trombonist and bandleader, contributed significantly to the traditional jazz scene. Established the Chris Barber Band, which became instrumental in popularizing New Orleans jazz and American jazz styles in the UK during the 1950s and 1960s. Collaborated with various musicians, expanding the horizons of the jazz genre. Recorded numerous albums and toured extensively, influencing generations of musicians. The band regularly featured renowned artists and showcased Barber's distinctive trombone style. Continued to perform and record music throughout his lifetime, leaving a lasting legacy in the jazz community.

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Willy van der Kuijlen

Dutch footballer and manager, PSV Eindhoven
Born
December 6th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 75 years old

An accomplished footballer and manager, played majority of career at PSV Eindhoven. Contributed to numerous domestic league titles and European competitions. Transitioned to a managerial role post-playing career. His expertise in the sport led to multiple coaching positions, providing guidance at various clubs in the Netherlands.

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Keri Hulme

New Zealand author and poet
Born
March 9th, 1947 79 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 74 years old

An author and poet from New Zealand, recognized for the novel "The Bone People," which received the Booker Prize in 1985. This work explores themes of identity, culture, and spirituality, showcasing the complexities of life in New Zealand. Hulme's poetry has also been published in various collections, reflecting her unique voice and perspective influenced by her Maori heritage. In addition to literary achievements, contributions to the literary community include involvement in various writer's workshops and mentoring emerging writers.

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Felix Silla

Character actor and stuntman in film and TV
Born
January 11th, 1937 89 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 84 years old

Born in Italy, a prominent character actor, circus performer, voice artist, and stuntman contributed to numerous television shows and films over several decades. Gained recognition for the role of 'Cousin It' in the television series The Addams Family and featured in the film Spaceballs as the character 'The Droid'. His career spanned various genres, providing both comedic and dramatic performances while also performing stunts in multiple productions.

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J. R. Richard

Baseball pitcher with Houston Astros
Born
March 7th, 1950 76 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 71 years old

This individual played professional baseball as a pitcher for the Houston Astros from 1971 to 1980. Recognized for a powerful fastball and an exceptional ability to strike out batters, he won numerous accolades during his career. His career was abruptly interrupted by health issues, but he remains a significant figure in the history of the franchise. After baseball, he pursued a career in ministry.

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