In this article, we explore the lives of 21 notable figures who passed away on August 4. Each had a unique impact on their respective fields, leaving behind legacies that continue to be remembered. From actors to athletes, their contributions remain significant.
21 Famous People Who Died on August 4
1. Lorenzo Music
Date of Death: August 4, 2001
Lorenzo Music, born on May 2, 1937, was an American actor, voice actor, writer, and producer. Known for his distinctive voice, he voiced Garfield in the animated series “Garfield and Friends.” Music also co-created the TV series “The Bob Newhart Show” and was the original voice of Carlton the Doorman on “Rhoda.” His work in animation and television left an indelible mark on the industry.
2. Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman
Date of Death: August 4, 2002
Holly Wells, born on September 4, 1991, and Jessica Chapman, born on September 1, 1991, were two British schoolgirls whose tragic deaths shocked the nation. Their disappearance and subsequent murder in Soham, Cambridgeshire, led to widespread media coverage and a national outcry. Their case remains one of the most heartbreaking in British history.
3. Anthony Bloom
Anthony Bloom
Date of Death: August 4, 2003
Anthony Bloom, born on June 19, 1914, was a prominent Russian Orthodox bishop and theologian. He served as the Metropolitan of Sourozh, the diocese of the Russian Orthodox Church in Great Britain and Ireland. Known for his deep spiritual insights and writings, Bloom was a respected figure in the Christian community.
4. Kenneth Couzens
Date of Death: August 4, 2005
Kenneth Couzens, born on February 19, 1917, was an English footballer who played as a goalkeeper. He had a brief but notable career, playing for clubs such as Walsall and Birmingham City. Couzens’ contributions to the sport during the early 20th century are remembered by football enthusiasts.
5. Anatoly Larkin
Date of Death: August 4, 2005
Anatoly Larkin, born on October 14, 1932, was a Russian-American physicist renowned for his work in condensed matter theory. His research contributed significantly to the understanding of superconductivity and quantum mechanics. Larkin’s scientific achievements earned him recognition and respect within the academic community.
6. Nick Perito
Date of Death: August 4, 2005
Nick Perito, born on April 7, 1924, was an American composer and arranger. He is best known for his work as the musical director for Perry Como for over 40 years. Perito’s arrangements and compositions played a key role in shaping the sound of Como’s music, making him an influential figure in the entertainment industry.
7. John Locke
Date of Death: August 4, 2006
John Locke, born on September 25, 1943, was an American keyboardist and songwriter. He was a founding member of the rock band Spirit, known for hits like “I Got a Line on You” and “Nature’s Way.” Locke’s innovative keyboard playing and songwriting helped define the band’s unique sound.
8. Lee Hazlewood
Date of Death: August 4, 2007
Lee Hazlewood, born on July 9, 1929, was an American singer, songwriter, and record producer. He is best known for his work with Nancy Sinatra, particularly the hit song “These Boots Are Made for Walkin’.” Hazlewood’s deep voice and unconventional songwriting style made him a cult figure in the music world.
9. Blake Snyder
Date of Death: August 4, 2009
Blake Snyder, born on October 3, 1957, was an American screenwriter, consultant, and author. He is best known for his book “Save the Cat!” which offers a detailed approach to screenwriting. Snyder’s work has influenced countless writers and filmmakers, making his contributions to the industry invaluable.
10. Naoki Matsuda
Naoki Matsuda
Date of Death: August 4, 2011
Naoki Matsuda, born on March 14, 1977, was a Japanese footballer who played as a defender. He had a successful career, most notably with Yokohama F. Marinos, and represented Japan in international competitions, including the 2002 FIFA World Cup. Matsuda’s sudden death during training shocked the football community.
11. Arnie Risen
Date of Death: August 4, 2012
Arnie Risen, born on October 9, 1924, was an American professional basketball player. He played as a center and was known for his time with the Rochester Royals and Boston Celtics, winning two NBA championships. Risen’s impact on the game and his contributions to his teams are well-remembered by basketball historians.
12. Art Donovan
Date of Death: August 4, 2013
Art Donovan, born on June 5, 1924, was an American football player who played as a defensive tackle. He was a key player for the Baltimore Colts and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1968. Donovan’s larger-than-life personality and impressive career left a lasting legacy in the NFL.
13. James Brady
Date of Death: August 4, 2014
James Brady, born on August 29, 1940, was an American journalist and White House Press Secretary under President Ronald Reagan. He was severely injured during an assassination attempt on Reagan in 1981. Brady became an advocate for gun control, and the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act is named in his honor.
14. Gerd Natschinski
Date of Death: August 4, 2015
Gerd Natschinski, born on August 23, 1928, was a German composer and conductor. He composed numerous works for film, television, and theater, contributing significantly to the cultural landscape of East Germany. Natschinski’s music continues to be celebrated for its creativity and emotional depth.
15. Les Munro
Les Munro
Date of Death: August 4, 2015
Les Munro, born on April 5, 1919, was a New Zealand aviator and one of the last surviving members of the Dambusters raid during World War II. He flew numerous missions and was awarded several honors for his bravery and skill. Munro’s legacy as a war hero is remembered with great respect.
16. Ivo Lill
Date of Death: August 4, 2019
Ivo Lill, born on June 24, 1953, was an Estonian glass artist known for his innovative and intricate glass sculptures. His work has been exhibited internationally, earning him acclaim in the world of contemporary art. Lill’s artistic vision and craftsmanship have left a lasting impact on the field of glass art.
see also: 20 Celebrities Born on August 4 You May Not Know
17. Willie Hunter
Date of Death: August 4, 2019
Willie Hunter, born on March 18, 1940, was an American jazz musician and violinist. He was a member of the Preservation Hall Jazz Band and was known for his contributions to the New Orleans jazz scene. Hunter’s musical talent and dedication to preserving jazz heritage are celebrated by music lovers.
18. David Haddon Whitaker
Date of Death: August 4, 2021
David Haddon Whitaker, born on January 6, 1931, was a British chemist and inventor. He made significant contributions to the field of chemical engineering and held numerous patents for his inventions. Whitaker’s work in chemistry and his innovative spirit have left a lasting legacy in the scientific community.
19. Johnny Famechon
Date of Death: August 4, 2022
Johnny Famechon, born on March 28, 1945, was an Australian featherweight boxer. He won the WBC featherweight title in 1969 and was known for his technical skill and resilience in the ring. Famechon’s achievements in boxing have earned him a place in the Australian National Boxing Hall of Fame.
20. Sam Gooden
Date of Death: August 4, 2022
Sam Gooden, born on September 2, 1934, was an American soul singer and a founding member of The Impressions. The group was known for hits like “People Get Ready” and “It’s All Right.” Gooden’s smooth vocals and contributions to the soul music genre have left a lasting impact on the industry.
21. Charles Ogletree
Date of Death: August 4, 2023
Charles Ogletree, born on December 31, 1952, was an American attorney, law professor, and civil rights advocate. He was a prominent figure in legal education and a mentor to many future leaders, including former President Barack Obama. Ogletree’s work in civil rights and legal advocacy has had a profound influence on society.
Conclusion
The lives and contributions of these 21 individuals who passed away on August 4 have left a lasting impact on various fields, from entertainment and sports to science and civil rights. Their legacies continue to inspire and influence people around the world.