What Happened This Year 2022

People Who Died in 2022

Pope Benedict XVI

Pope and theologian, led Catholic Church
Born
1927 99 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2022 3 years ago — 95 years old

Served as the 265th pope from 2005 until 2013. Born in Germany, pursued a career in theology and became a cardinal. Prior to his papacy, served as the Archbishop of Munich and Freising. Contributed to dialogue between faith and reason, and addressed issues within the Church, including secularism and modernity. Resigned in 2013, becoming the first pope to do so in nearly 600 years.

Continue Reading

Timmy Thomas

American singer-songwriter and producer
Born
November 13th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
2022 4 years ago — 78 years old

An American singer-songwriter and keyboard player, recognized for creating soul and R&B music. Achieved notable success with the single 'Why Can't We Live Together,' which reached the top of the charts and became an anthem for peace and unity. Produced several albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s, blending social commentary with melodic compositions. Continued to influence the music scene with contributions as a songwriter and producer, working with various artists and shaping the sound of contemporary R&B.

Continue Reading

Adreian Payne

Professional basketball player, NBA
Born
February 19th, 1991 34 years ago
Died
2022 4 years ago — 31 years old

Played college basketball at Michigan State University from 2011 to 2014. Selected 15th overall in the 2014 NBA Draft by the Atlanta Hawks. Played for the Hawks, Minnesota Timberwolves, and other international teams. Contributed to team success as a center, known for scoring and rebounding.

Continue Reading

John Bird

English actor and satirist
Born
November 22nd, 1936 89 years ago
Died
2022 4 years ago — 86 years old

An English actor and writer, this individual gained prominence through contributions to television and theater. Extensive work included the double act with John Fortune, particularly in satirical programs during the 1970s and 1980s. Participated in various productions, showcasing versatility in character roles. Additionally, contributed as a writer, blending humor with sharp social commentary, enhancing the landscape of British satire.

Continue Reading

Ken Starr

American lawyer and Solicitor General
Born
July 21st, 1946 79 years ago
Died
2022 4 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent American lawyer and jurist, served as the 39th Solicitor General of the United States. Played a significant role in the investigation of President Bill Clinton, leading to a major impeachment trial. Previously held the position of Dean of the Pepperdine University School of Law and served as a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. Authored numerous legal documents and opinions throughout a lengthy career in law and public service, contributing to various high-profile cases and legal scholarship.

Continue Reading

Guitar Shorty

American blues guitarist and singer
Born
September 8th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
2022 4 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1939, this musician became a significant figure in the blues genre, renowned for his energetic performances and unique guitar style. Early career involved touring with greats such as Ray Charles and showcasing skills in various venues across the US. Gained attention with albums that highlighted a blend of traditional blues and modern influences. His music reflects a deep appreciation for the roots of the genre while incorporating elements of funk and rock.

Continue Reading

Ian McDonald

Guitarist and saxophonist in King Crimson
Born
June 25th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
2022 4 years ago — 76 years old

A multi-instrumentalist contributed significantly to the progressive rock band King Crimson. Instrumental in shaping the band's early sound, played guitar and saxophone on their iconic debut album, 'In the Court of the Crimson King', released in 1969. Later participated in various musical projects and collaborations across genres, showcasing versatility and continuing to perform live and in the studio long after the band's initial success. Co-founded the band Foreigner, achieving chart-topping hits in the late 1970s and 1980s.

Continue Reading

Paul Farmer

American anthropologist and physician
Born
October 26th, 1959 66 years ago
Died
2022 4 years ago — 63 years old

An anthropologist and physician contributed significantly to global health care. Co-founded Partners In Health in 1987, focusing on providing healthcare to impoverished communities in developing countries. Promoted the idea that healthcare is a human right, advocating for equitable access to medical services. Worked extensively in Haiti, Rwanda, and other countries, addressing infectious diseases and tuberculosis. Integrated community-based care with medical education, helping develop programs that trained local health care workers.

Continue Reading

Ian Greenberg

Broadcaster and Astral Media founder
Born
June 15th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
2022 4 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1942, a Canadian broadcaster established Astral Media, a major media company. Astral Media became known for its television and radio assets, including notable brands in the Canadian media landscape. The company expanded its influence through various strategic acquisitions and partnerships, significantly shaping the broadcasting sector in Canada. Under leadership, Astral Media experienced substantial growth and innovation in digital content distribution.

Continue Reading