What Happened This Year 2023

People Who Died in 2023

Shaw Clifton

18th General of The Salvation Army
Born
September 21st, 1945 80 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 78 years old

Served as the 18th General of The Salvation Army from 2002 to 2011. Guided the organization in various global initiatives and community services during tenure. Focused on addressing social issues such as poverty and human trafficking through the Army's vast network of services. Engaged in interfaith dialogue and emphasized cooperation among various religious communities.

Continue Reading

Tori Bowie

Track and field athlete, Olympic medalist
Born
August 27th, 1990 35 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 33 years old

Competed in track and field, specializing in sprints and long jump. Achieved significant success at the 2016 Rio Olympics, winning a gold medal in the 4x100 meter relay and a bronze medal in the 100 meters. Also earned a silver medal in the 100 meters at the 2015 World Championships. Set a personal best of 10.78 seconds in the 100 meters, showcasing remarkable speed. Contributed to the US women's team’s victory in the 4x100 meter relay, solidifying a legacy as a top sprinter.

Continue Reading

Betty Boothroyd

British politician and House Speaker
Born
October 8th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 94 years old

An English politician served as the Speaker of the House of Commons from 1992 to 2000. Boothroyd became the first woman to hold the position, overseeing debates and maintaining order in the House. Entered Parliament in 1973 as the Member of Parliament for West Bromwich, East. She held various positions within the Labour Party and became a prominent figure in British politics during her tenure.

Continue Reading

Bob Knight

Basketball coach and strategist
Born
October 25th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 83 years old

A prominent basketball coach, significant contributions made during tenure at Indiana University from 1971 to 2000. Achieved three NCAA Championships, leading teams to victories in 1976, 1981, and 1987. Developed a reputation for discipline and a unique coaching style. Transitioned to coaching at Texas Tech University from 2001 to 2008, achieving a remarkable career win total.

Continue Reading

Tom Pendry

English politician and life peer
Born
June 10th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent figure in British politics, served as a Member of Parliament for Stalybridge and Hyde from 1970 to 1997. Elevated to the House of Lords as a life peer in 1997, contributing to various committees and campaigns. Involved in sports advocacy, particularly in football. Served as the chairman of the Football Trust. Played a significant role in promoting sports policies within the Labour Party, engaging in discussions about sports funding and development.

Continue Reading

Paul Berg

Biochemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
June 30th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 97 years old

Nobel Prize-winning biochemist specialized in recombinant DNA technology. Developed techniques that allowed for the manipulation of genetic material, significantly advancing molecular biology. Held academic positions at Stanford University and contributed to the founding of biotech firms. His research paved the way for genetic engineering and modern biotechnology.

Continue Reading

Bill Richardson

American politician and diplomat
Born
November 15th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 76 years old

Served as the 21st United States Ambassador to the United Nations. Held various positions including Governor of New Mexico from 2003 to 2011 and a member of the U.S. House of Representatives. Involved in international diplomacy and negotiations, particularly with North Korea. Was recognized for efforts in energy policy and was actively engaged in U.S.-Mexico relations.

Continue Reading

Ronald Rene Lagueux

American judge with judicial rulings
Born
June 30th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 92 years old

Served as a U.S. District Court judge for the District of Rhode Island from 1980 to 1999. Appointed by President Jimmy Carter, played a crucial role in federal jurisprudence during tenure. Oversaw numerous significant cases addressing constitutional law and civil rights. Contributed to the legal framework and the judicial community in Rhode Island.

Continue Reading

Les McCann

Soul-jazz singer and pianist
Born
September 23rd, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1935, this American musician became a pivotal figure in the soul-jazz genre. His career took off in the 1960s, particularly with the release of the acclaimed album "Swiss Movement" in 1969, which featured the hit track "Compared to What." This album showcased a blend of jazz and soul, gaining popularity for its energetic performances and socially conscious lyrics. He toured extensively and collaborated with many influential artists throughout his career, contributing to the evolution of the genre. Beyond performing, this musician also worked as a producer and continued to influence future generations in the music industry.

Continue Reading