Throughout history, many notable figures have left an indelible mark on various fields, from politics and literature to sports and entertainment. July 16 has seen the passing of numerous such individuals, each leaving behind a unique legacy. In this article, we will highlight 20 celebrities who passed away on July 16, emphasizing their birthdays and contributions to their respective fields.
20 Celebrities Who Died on July 16
1. Anne of Cleves
Anne of Cleves
Date of Death: July 16, 1557
Anne of Cleves, born on September 22, 1515, was the fourth wife of King Henry VIII of England. Despite their marriage being annulled after just six months, Anne was given a generous settlement and remained in England, living a comfortable and respected life. Her marriage to Henry VIII was part of his attempts to secure a strong Protestant alliance in Europe.
2. Thomas Kyd
Date of Death: July 16, 1594
Thomas Kyd, born on November 6, 1558, was an influential English playwright, best known for his play “The Spanish Tragedy.” This work is considered one of the most important Elizabethan tragedies and laid the groundwork for the revenge tragedy genre, influencing later playwrights, including William Shakespeare.
3. Mary Todd Lincoln
Date of Death: July 16, 1882
Mary Todd Lincoln, born on December 13, 1818, was the First Lady of the United States from 1861 to 1865 as the wife of President Abraham Lincoln. She was known for her strong personality, political acumen, and deep grief after the assassination of her husband. Mary faced numerous personal tragedies, including the loss of three of her four sons.
4. Ellen G. White
Date of Death: July 16, 1915
Ellen G. White, born on November 26, 1827, was a co-founder of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. She was a prolific author and had a significant influence on the development of Adventist beliefs and practices. Her writings, covering topics from health to theology, are still widely read within the Adventist community.
5. Albert Kesselring
Date of Death: July 16, 1960
Albert Kesselring, born on November 30, 1885, was a German Generalfeldmarschall during World War II. He was a skilled commander, known for his roles in the campaigns in Poland, France, and Italy. After the war, he was tried and convicted of war crimes but later had his sentence commuted, allowing him to live out his remaining years in Germany.
6. Juan Manuel Fangio
Date of Death: July 16, 1995
Juan Manuel Fangio, born on June 24, 1911, was an Argentine racing driver who dominated the first decade of Formula One racing. He won the World Drivers’ Championship five times, a record that stood for 46 years. Fangio is often considered one of the greatest drivers in the history of the sport.
7. John F. Kennedy Jr.
John F. Kennedy Jr.
Date of Death: July 16, 1999
John F. Kennedy Jr., born on November 25, 1960, was an American lawyer, journalist, and magazine publisher. The son of President John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, he was often in the public eye. Tragically, he died in a plane crash along with his wife and sister-in-law while flying to a family wedding.
8. Blue Barron (Harry Freidman)
Date of Death: July 16, 2005
Blue Barron, born on November 19, 1913, was an American orchestra leader known for his “sweet” style of music. His band was popular in the 1930s and 1940s, performing hits that resonated with audiences during the Big Band era. Barron’s contributions to music left a lasting impression on the genre.
9. Artie Malvin
Date of Death: July 16, 2006
Artie Malvin, born on July 7, 1913, was a talented singer, songwriter, and musical arranger. He was a key member of The Crew Chiefs, a vocal group that performed with Glenn Miller’s band during World War II. Malvin’s work in music and television earned him recognition and respect in the entertainment industry.
10. Tom Brooks
Date of Death: July 16, 2007
Tom Brooks, born on September 10, 1917, was an American film and television director. Known for his work on classic TV shows such as “The Lone Ranger” and “The Adventures of Superman,” Brooks made significant contributions to the Golden Age of Television, helping to shape the medium’s development.
11. Jo Stafford
Date of Death: July 16, 2008
Jo Stafford, born on November 12, 1917, was an American singer known for her purity of voice and versatility. She enjoyed great success in the 1940s and 1950s, with hits such as “You Belong to Me” and “Make Love to Me.” Stafford’s music continues to be celebrated for its timeless appeal.
12. James Gammon
Date of Death: July 16, 2010
James Gammon, born on April 20, 1940, was an American actor known for his roles in films such as “Major League” and “Cold Mountain,” as well as numerous television appearances. His rugged, gravelly voice and commanding presence made him a memorable character actor.
13. Forrest Blue
Date of Death: July 16, 2011
Forrest Blue, born on September 7, 1944, was an American football player who played as a center in the NFL. He spent the majority of his career with the San Francisco 49ers and was selected to the Pro Bowl four times. Blue’s contributions to the sport were significant during his playing years.
see also: 20 Famous People Born on July 16 You May Not Know
14. Bob Babbitt (Kreinar)
Date of Death: July 16, 2012
Bob Babbitt, born on November 26, 1937, was an American bass guitarist and member of the Motown studio band, The Funk Brothers. He played on numerous hit records, including “Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours” by Stevie Wonder and “Midnight Train to Georgia” by Gladys Knight & the Pips.
15. Alex Colville
Date of Death: July 16, 2013
Alex Colville, born on August 24, 1920, was a Canadian painter known for his realist works that often depicted everyday scenes with a haunting, mysterious quality. Colville’s meticulous technique and evocative imagery earned him international acclaim, making him one of Canada’s most celebrated artists.
see also: 20 Famous People Born on July 16 You May Not Know
16. Johnny Winter
Johnny Winter
Date of Death: July 16, 2014
Johnny Winter, born on February 23, 1944, was an American blues guitarist, singer, and producer. Known for his energetic performances and virtuosic guitar skills, Winter was a major figure in the blues and rock scenes. His work with Muddy Waters earned him several Grammy Awards.
17. Nate Thurmond
Date of Death: July 16, 2016
Nate Thurmond, born on July 25, 1941, was an American basketball player known for his time with the Golden State Warriors, Chicago Bulls, and Cleveland Cavaliers. A Hall of Famer, Thurmond was renowned for his defensive prowess and rebounding ability, leaving a lasting impact on the game.
18. George A. Romero
Date of Death: July 16, 2017
George A. Romero, born on February 4, 1940, was an American filmmaker and writer best known for his seminal work in the horror genre. His film “Night of the Living Dead” revolutionized the zombie genre and remains a cult classic. Romero’s influence on horror cinema is profound and enduring.
19. Hobie Billingsley
Date of Death: July 16, 2019
Hobie Billingsley, born on December 2, 1927, was an American diver and coach. He made significant contributions to the sport, both as a competitor and as a coach, mentoring numerous Olympic athletes. Billingsley’s dedication to diving helped elevate the sport’s profile in the United States.
20. Jane Birkin
Date of Death: July 16, 2023
Jane Birkin, born on December 14, 1946, was an English-French actress, singer, and fashion icon. Known for her collaborations with Serge Gainsbourg and her distinctive voice, Birkin became a symbol of the 1960s and 1970s counterculture. Her influence extended beyond entertainment to fashion and activism.
Conclusion
These 20 individuals, each renowned in their own right, left an indelible mark on their respective fields. Their legacies continue to inspire and influence new generations. As we remember them, we honor their contributions and the enduring impact they have had on the world.