What Happened This Year 2023

People Who Died in 2023

Betta St. John

American actress, singer, dancer in musicals
Born
November 26th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 94 years old

Born in 1929, an accomplished actress, singer, and dancer, contributed to various musicals during the mid-20th century. Starred in productions such as 'Kiss Me, Kate' and 'The King and I'. Worked alongside notable figures in theater and made appearances in television shows including 'The Ed Sullivan Show'. Parlayed talents into a successful career in entertainment spanning several decades.

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Luis Alarcón

Chilean actor in theater and cinema
Born
October 23rd, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 94 years old

The actor was active in both Chilean theater and cinema, appearing in numerous productions throughout a prolific career. Alarcón contributed significantly to the cultural landscape in Chile through performance arts, particularly in plays and films that reflected social issues and historical contexts. Renowned for work in theater as well as film adaptations, the actor gained recognition for portraying complex characters, often in roles that resonated with national identity.

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Vida Blue

Baseball player and sportscaster
Born
July 28th, 1949 75 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 74 years old

A notable baseball player and sportscaster, contributed significantly to Major League Baseball during the 1960s and 1970s. Played primarily for the Oakland Athletics and was a dominant left-handed pitcher. Achieved great success in 1971, earning the American League MVP and Cy Young Award. Later transitioned to broadcasting, providing insights on the game. His athletic talent and charisma made a lasting impression in both sports and media.

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Les McCann

Soul-jazz singer and pianist
Born
September 23rd, 1935 89 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.

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Ronald Rene Lagueux

American judge with judicial rulings
Born
June 30th, 1931 93 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.

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Paul Berg

Biochemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
June 30th, 1926 98 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.

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Tori Bowie

Track and field athlete, Olympic medalist
Born
August 27th, 1990 34 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.

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Jay Briscoe

Professional wrestler, Ring of Honor star
Born
January 25th, 1984 41 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 39 years old

A professional wrestler competed primarily in Ring of Honor. Debuted in 2000 and achieved widespread recognition for tag team success alongside brother Mark Briscoe. Captured multiple tag team championships, highlighting a prominent run with the ROH World Tag Team Championship. Known for high-energy matches and intense rivalries that engaged wrestling fans. Helped elevate the tag team division and contributed to ROH’s growth during the 2000s and 2010s. Continued to participate in wrestling events until his passing in 2023.

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Robert Solow

Economist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
August 23rd, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 99 years old

An American economist and academic, contributions to economic theory established a framework for analyzing economic growth. Developed the Solow-Swan model, illustrating how capital accumulation, labor, and technological progress contribute to economic expansion. Served as a professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Received the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1987 for the analysis of economic growth, particularly focusing on the role of technology in long-term economic performance.

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