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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Tom Moore

British army officer and fundraiser
Born
April 30th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 101 years old

Served as a British Army officer during World War II, contributing to the war effort through various roles. In later years, raised significant funds for the National Health Service by completing laps in his garden. This initiative gained widespread public attention and support, culminating in a remarkable fundraising total that surpassed initial goals. Honorary titles and awards were received in recognition of these efforts, including a knighthood bestowed in a public ceremony, further solidifying a legacy of dedication to charitable causes.

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Christa Ludwig

German opera singer with Wagner roles
Born
March 16th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 93 years old

A prominent opera singer specializing in both mezzo-soprano and soprano roles, achieved acclaim for performances in notable operas. Primarily associated with the works of Richard Wagner, delivered outstanding interpretations of characters such as Brünnhilde and Ortrud. Also gained recognition for roles in operas by Verdi and Strauss. Performed at major opera houses worldwide, including the Vienna State Opera and the Metropolitan Opera. Conducted masterclasses and contributed significantly to the education of future generations of singers.

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Ruth Ann Minner

Politician, 72nd Governor of Delaware
Born
January 17th, 1935 91 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 86 years old

Served as the 72nd Governor of Delaware from 2001 to 2009. Worked in various roles in state government, including as Secretary of the Department of Health and Social Services. Prior to the governorship, held positions in the Delaware House of Representatives and as a state senator. Advocated for health care reforms and economic development initiatives during tenure as governor.

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Rosita Quintana

Argentine actress in film and television
Born
July 16th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 96 years old

Born in 1925, an accomplished Argentine actress featured in film and television productions. Gained recognition for roles in numerous telenovelas and films. Worked extensively throughout her career, embodying various characters and showcasing significant acting skill. Contributed to the Argentine entertainment industry for several decades, leaving a lasting legacy in the realm of performing arts.

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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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Chris Barber

Trombonist and bandleader in jazz
Born
April 17th, 1930 95 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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Gordon McVie

Oncologist and cancer researcher
Born
January 13th, 1945 81 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent oncologist and author, contributed significantly to cancer research and treatment. Served as the director of The Cancer Research Campaign. Played a pivotal role in the establishment of cancer networks in the UK, focusing on improving patient outcomes. Actively participated in cancer conferences and contributed to numerous publications in the field of oncology.

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