What Happened This Year 2021

People Who Died in 2021

J. Hillis Miller

Literary critic and scholar
Born
March 5th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 93 years old

Contributed to literary theory and criticism, focusing on modern and postmodern literature. Analyzed works of prominent authors such as James Joyce and Virginia Woolf. Served as a professor at several universities including the University of California, Irvine, and published numerous influential texts on deconstruction and narrative theory. Engaged in explorations of interpretation, reader-response theory, and the relationship between literature and philosophy.

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Patricia Kennealy-Morrison

Journalist and author of rock music
Born
March 4th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 75 years old

An American journalist and author, recognized for contributions to music journalism and fiction. Wrote extensively about rock music, with a focus on the 1960s and 1970s. Authored several books including 'Strange Days: My Life with Jim Morrison and The Doors,' detailing experiences with the iconic band. Also created science fiction works and explored themes of gender and mythology in her writing. Served as a contributing editor for various publications, enhancing discourse in music and culture.

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Edmond H. Fischer

Swiss-American biochemist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
April 6th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 101 years old

Born in 1920, a biochemist and academic conducted extensive research in the field of molecular biology. Focused on protein phosphorylation, contributions led to significant advancements in understanding cellular regulatory processes. Collaborated with other scientists and published numerous influential studies. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1992 for discoveries related to reversible protein phosphorylation and its effects on cellular functions. Continued to engage in academia, mentoring future generations of scientists.

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Matthew Festing

79th Prince and Grand Master of Malta
Born
November 30th, 1949 75 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 72 years old

Held the position of Prince and Grand Master of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta from 2008 to 2017. Participated in various charitable activities and focused on humanitarian efforts during tenure. Contributed to the preservation of the Order's heritage and governance, navigating through challenges within the organization. Contributed to diplomatic relations and the interests of the Order in various international forums.

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Jean-Marc Vallée

Film director of 'Dallas Buyers Club'
Born
March 9th, 1963 62 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 58 years old

A Canadian director and screenwriter, Vallée gained recognition for directing feature films and television series. Achievements included accolades for the film 'Dallas Buyers Club', which explored the life of Ron Woodroof, and 'Wild', based on the memoir by Cheryl Strayed. Vallée directed the critically acclaimed HBO miniseries 'Big Little Lies', which garnered praise for its storytelling and performances.

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J. R. Richard

Baseball pitcher with Houston Astros
Born
March 7th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
2021 4 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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Keri Hulme

New Zealand author and poet
Born
March 9th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
2021 4 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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Chris Barber

Trombonist and bandleader in jazz
Born
April 17th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
2021 4 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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Tommy Kirk

American actor in Disney films
Born
December 10th, 1941 83 years ago
Died
2021 4 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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