The world of celebrities is vast, and every now and then, we come across some lesser-known facts about our favorite stars. One such intriguing fact is the notable figures who share the same date of passing. July 28 marks the death anniversary of several prominent personalities from various fields. In this article, we will explore 16 celebrities who died on this day, highlighting their birthdays and significant contributions to their respective domains.
16 Celebrities Who Died on July 28
1. Theodosius II
Date of Death: July 28, 450 AD
Theodosius II, born on April 10, 401 AD, was the Eastern Roman Emperor from 408 to 450 AD. His reign is noted for the compilation of the Theodosian Code, a compilation of laws of the Roman Empire. Theodosius was also known for constructing the Theodosian Walls of Constantinople, which protected the city for over a millennium. His leadership marked a significant period in the history of the Eastern Roman Empire.
2. Thomas Cromwell
Date of Death: July 28, 1540
Thomas Cromwell, born around 1485, was an English lawyer and statesman who served as the chief minister to King Henry VIII. He played a crucial role in the English Reformation, helping to engineer the king’s divorce from Catherine of Aragon and the establishment of the Church of England. Despite his significant influence, Cromwell fell from the king’s favor and was executed for treason and heresy.
3. Antonio Vivaldi
Date of Death: July 28, 1741
Antonio Vivaldi, born on March 4, 1678, was an Italian Baroque composer, virtuoso violinist, teacher, and cleric. Known for his numerous violin concertos, particularly “The Four Seasons,” Vivaldi’s music has left an indelible mark on classical music. His innovative compositions and mastery of the violin earned him widespread acclaim during his lifetime and beyond.
4. Johann Sebastian Bach
Date of Death: July 28, 1750
Johann Sebastian Bach, born on March 31, 1685, was a German composer and musician of the Baroque period. His works, including the Brandenburg Concertos and The Well-Tempered Clavier, are considered pinnacles of classical music. Bach’s complex compositions and deep understanding of musical forms have influenced countless musicians and composers over the centuries.
5. Maximilien Robespierre
Date of Death: July 28, 1794
Maximilien Robespierre, born on May 6, 1758, was a French lawyer and statesman, one of the best-known and most influential figures of the French Revolution. He was a member of the Committee of Public Safety and played a key role in the Reign of Terror. Despite his initial support for democratic ideals, his radical policies eventually led to his downfall and execution.
6. Marie Dressler
Date of Death: July 28, 1934
Marie Dressler, born on November 9, 1868, was a Canadian-American actress and comedian. She achieved great success in silent films and later in talkies, winning an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in “Min and Bill.” Dressler’s larger-than-life personality and comedic talent made her one of the most beloved stars of her time.
7. Frank Loesser
Date of Death: July 28, 1969
Frank Loesser, born on June 29, 1910, was an American songwriter who created music and lyrics for Broadway musicals, Hollywood films, and popular songs. His most famous works include the musicals “Guys and Dolls” and “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying,” for which he won a Pulitzer Prize. Loesser’s contributions to American musical theatre remain significant to this day.
8. Archer John Porter Martin
Date of Death: July 28, 2002
Archer John Porter Martin, born on March 1, 1910, was a British chemist who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1952. His work in the development of partition chromatography revolutionized the field of analytical chemistry, allowing for more precise and efficient separation of chemical compounds. Martin’s innovations have had lasting impacts on scientific research and industry.
9. Francis Crick
Date of Death: July 28, 2004
Francis Crick, born on June 8, 1916, was a British molecular biologist, biophysicist, and neuroscientist. He is best known for co-discovering the structure of DNA with James Watson, which earned them the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1962. Crick’s groundbreaking work laid the foundation for modern genetics and biotechnology.
10. Johnny Ventura
Date of Death: July 28, 2021
Johnny Ventura, born on March 8, 1940, was a Dominican singer and bandleader who became a leading figure in the merengue music genre. Known as “El Caballo Mayor,” Ventura’s energetic performances and innovative musical style earned him a prominent place in Latin music history. His influence extended beyond music, as he also served as the mayor of Santo Domingo.
11. Joseph “Dusty” Hill
Date of Death: July 28, 2021
Dusty Hill, born on May 19, 1949, was an American musician and the bassist for the rock band ZZ Top. Known for his deep voice and solid bass playing, Hill helped define the band’s distinctive blues-rock sound. With hits like “La Grange” and “Sharp Dressed Man,” ZZ Top became one of the most enduring and successful rock bands of all time.
12. Ron Popeil
Date of Death: July 28, 2021
Ron Popeil, born on May 3, 1935, was an American inventor and marketing personality best known for his infomercials. He founded Ronco, a company that sold household gadgets such as the Veg-O-Matic and the Pocket Fisherman. Popeil’s innovative products and memorable catchphrases made him a household name and a pioneer of direct marketing.
13. Ruben Radica
Date of Death: July 28, 2021
Ruben Radica, born on October 19, 1931, was a Croatian composer and music educator. His works, characterized by a modernist style, contributed significantly to contemporary classical music. Radica’s dedication to teaching and his innovative compositions have left a lasting legacy in the world of music.
see also: 23 Famous People Born on July 28 You May Not Know
14. Bernard Cribbins
Date of Death: July 28, 2022
Bernard Cribbins, born on December 29, 1928, was an English actor, comedian, and singer. Known for his roles in “The Railway Children” and the “Carry On” series, Cribbins also provided voices for the children’s TV series “The Wombles.” His versatile talent and warm personality made him a beloved figure in British entertainment.
15. Terry Neill
Date of Death: July 28, 2022
Terry Neill, born on May 8, 1942, was a Northern Irish footballer and manager. He played for Arsenal and Hull City and later managed both teams, as well as Tottenham Hotspur. Neill’s leadership on and off the field earned him respect and admiration in the football community.
16. Wayne Hawkins
Date of Death: July 28, 2022
Wayne Hawkins, born on June 17, 1938, was an American football player who played as a guard in the AFL and NFL, primarily for the Oakland Raiders. His toughness and skill on the offensive line made him a key player in the early years of the Raiders’ franchise. Hawkins’ contributions to the sport have been remembered by fans and teammates alike.
Conclusion
The date July 28 marks the passing of several notable figures across various fields, from ancient emperors to modern-day entertainers. Each of these individuals left a lasting impact on their respective domains, whether through groundbreaking scientific discoveries, influential music compositions, or memorable performances on screen. Remembering their contributions not only honors their legacies but also highlights the diverse talents and achievements that continue to inspire future generations.
These 16 celebrities, though they may have passed on the same day, each brought something unique and valuable to the world, enriching our culture and history in immeasurable ways. As we reflect on their lives and achievements, we gain a deeper appreciation for the enduring influence of their work and the timeless nature of their legacies.