19 Celebrities Who Died on July 14
Throughout history, July 14 has marked the passing of numerous individuals who left their mark on various fields. From military leaders to cultural icons, their contributions continue to resonate. Here, we commemorate 19 celebrities who died on July 14, highlighting their birthdays and legacies.
1. Johan Willem Friso
Date of Death: July 14, 1711
Johan Willem Friso, known as the Prince of Orange, was a prominent Dutch nobleman and military leader during the War of the Spanish Succession. His leadership was pivotal in shaping Dutch politics and military strategies during his time. Tragically, he met his demise due to drowning in the Hollands Diep, leaving behind a legacy of courage and strategic acumen that influenced generations.
2. René Ríos Boettiger
Date of Death: July 14, 1945
René Ríos Boettiger, better known by his pen name “Pepo,” was a Chilean cartoonist and creator of the iconic comic strip “Condorito.” Born on May 16, 1911, in Concepción, Chile, Pepo’s humorous and satirical comic strips captivated readers across Latin America. His death marked the end of an era for comic enthusiasts who admired his wit and creativity.
3. Frank Austin
Date of Death: July 14, 1971
Frank Austin, born on April 23, 1912, was an American jazz trombonist renowned for his virtuosity and distinctive style. He played alongside jazz legends such as Duke Ellington and Count Basie, contributing to the golden era of jazz music. Austin’s mastery of the trombone and improvisational skills influenced generations of jazz musicians before his untimely death.
4. Bengt Emil Johnson
Date of Death: July 14, 1994
Bengt Emil Johnson, born on October 15, 1936, was a Swedish poet, writer, and filmmaker known for his avant-garde approach to art and literature. His experimental poetry and films challenged conventional norms, exploring themes of identity, politics, and existentialism. Johnson’s artistic innovations left a profound impact on Scandinavian culture and the global avant-garde movement.
5. Carlos Fariñas
Date of Death: July 14, 2002
Carlos Fariñas, born on September 1, 1930, was a Filipino composer known for his significant contributions to Filipino classical music. His compositions, blending Western classical traditions with Filipino musical elements, earned him recognition both locally and internationally. Fariñas’ passing left a void in the Filipino music scene, but his compositions continue to be celebrated for their cultural richness.
6. Cicely Saunders
Date of Death: July 14, 2005
Cicely Saunders, born on June 22, 1918, was an English nurse, social worker, and physician who founded the modern hospice movement. Her compassionate approach to end-of-life care revolutionized how terminally ill patients were treated, emphasizing dignity and pain management. Saunders’ dedication to palliative care continues to inspire healthcare professionals worldwide, ensuring comfort and support for patients in their final moments.
Stay tuned for more insights into the lives and legacies of these notable individuals who passed away on July 14.
7. Dorothy Bolden
Date of Death: July 14, 2005
Dorothy Bolden, born on March 6, 1923, was an American civil rights activist and labor organizer. She founded the National Domestic Workers Union of America, advocating for the rights and fair treatment of domestic workers, predominantly African-American women. Bolden’s grassroots activism empowered marginalized communities and contributed significantly to the civil rights movement in the United States.
8. Phyllis Gotlieb
Date of Death: July 14, 2009
Phyllis Gotlieb, born on May 25, 1926, was a Canadian science fiction writer and poet known for her imaginative storytelling and speculative fiction works. Her novels, such as “A Judgement of Dragons” and “Sunburst,” explored themes of technology, humanity, and interstellar civilizations. Gotlieb’s contributions to Canadian literature earned her recognition as a pioneer in the genre of science fiction.
9. Zbigniew Zapasiewicz
Date of Death: July 14, 2009
Zbigniew Zapasiewicz, born on September 13, 1934, was a Polish actor renowned for his versatility and powerful performances on stage and screen. He starred in numerous acclaimed Polish films and theater productions, captivating audiences with his depth and emotional range. Zapasiewicz’s legacy as a respected actor continues to influence Polish cinema and theater today.
10. Charles Mackerras
Date of Death: July 14, 2010
Charles Mackerras, born on November 17, 1925, was an Australian conductor and musicologist acclaimed for his interpretations of Mozart, Janáček, and Handel. His conducting career spanned several decades, during which he conducted renowned orchestras worldwide and earned praise for his scholarly approach to classical music. Mackerras’ contributions to the classical music landscape cemented his legacy as a maestro of exceptional talent and insight.
Stay tuned for more insights into the lives and legacies of these notable individuals who passed away on July 14.
11. Gene Ludwig
Date of Death: July 14, 2010
Gene Ludwig, born on September 4, 1937, was an American jazz organist known for his soulful playing and contributions to the jazz organ genre. He recorded numerous albums and performed with notable jazz musicians, leaving a lasting impact on the jazz community. Ludwig’s innovative style and technical prowess on the Hammond B-3 organ continue to inspire musicians and jazz enthusiasts alike.
see also: 21 Celebrities Born on July 14 You May Not Know
12. Sixten Jernberg
Date of Death: July 14, 2012
Sixten Jernberg, born on February 6, 1929, was a Swedish cross-country skier and Olympic champion. He competed in multiple Winter Olympics, winning a total of nine Olympic medals, including four gold medals. Jernberg’s exceptional endurance and skiing technique made him a legendary figure in Nordic skiing history, inspiring generations of athletes in Sweden and beyond.
13. Matt Batts
Date of Death: July 14, 2013
Matt Batts, born on October 16, 1921, was an American professional baseball catcher who played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for several teams, including the Boston Red Sox and the St. Louis Browns. Known for his defensive skills and leadership behind the plate, Batts had a successful career spanning over a decade in MLB. His contributions to the sport and his impact on his teams remain part of baseball history.
14. Maryam Mirzakhani
Date of Death: July 14, 2017
Maryam Mirzakhani, born on May 3, 1977, was an Iranian mathematician and the first woman to win the Fields Medal, the most prestigious award in mathematics. Her groundbreaking work in the fields of geometry and dynamical systems earned her international acclaim for its elegance and profound insights. Mirzakhani’s legacy as a trailblazer for women in mathematics continues to inspire aspiring mathematicians worldwide.
15. Pernell Whitaker
Date of Death: July 14, 2019
Pernell Whitaker, born on January 2, 1964, was an American professional boxer and Olympic gold medalist known for his defensive prowess and technical boxing skills. He held multiple world championships in different weight classes during his career and was regarded as one of the greatest defensive boxers of all time. Whitaker’s legacy in the boxing world and his impact on the sport continue to be remembered and celebrated.
16. Ron de Lugo
Date of Death: July 14, 2019
Ron de Lugo, born on August 2, 1930, was an American politician who served as the Delegate from the United States Virgin Islands to the United States House of Representatives. He was a strong advocate for the rights and interests of the Virgin Islands, contributing to legislative efforts that impacted the region’s development and governance. De Lugo’s dedication to public service left a lasting legacy in Caribbean-American politics.
17. Jeff LaBar
Date of Death: July 14, 2021
Jeff LaBar, born on March 18, 1963, was an American guitarist best known for his tenure with the rock band Cinderella. He was recognized for his guitar work on hit songs like “Nobody’s Fool” and “Don’t Know What You Got (Till It’s Gone).” LaBar’s musical contributions and charismatic stage presence endeared him to rock fans worldwide, solidifying his place in rock music history.
18. Erica Pedretti (née Schefter)
Date of Death: July 14, 2021
Erica Pedretti, born on April 29, 1930, was a Swiss artist and sculptor known for her distinctive works in wood and stone. Her sculptures often explored themes of nature and spirituality, reflecting her deep connection to the natural world. Pedretti’s artistic legacy continues to be celebrated for its beauty and introspective depth, influencing contemporary Swiss art and sculpture.
19. Nick Benedict
Date of Death: July 14, 2022
Nick Benedict, born on August 30, 1938, was an American actor best known for his role as Albert Quinn Ingalls on the popular TV series “Little House on the Prairie.” His portrayal of the gentle and supportive character endeared him to audiences worldwide, making him a beloved figure in television history. Benedict’s contributions to entertainment left an enduring impact on the hearts of fans and colleagues alike.
These are some of the notable individuals who passed away on July 14, each leaving behind a unique legacy in their respective fields. Their contributions continue to be remembered and celebrated by fans and admirers worldwide.