Famous & Infamous Births & Deaths 31st May

Mum to Henry VII and paternal grandmother to Henry VIII starts today’s posting as Lady Margaret Beaufort arrived in either 1441 or 1443. Another ancient royal – Portuguese King Manuel I was the fortunate one from 1469. Tsar of Russia – Fyodor I Ivanovich or Feodor I Ioannovich started to believe what people told him from 1557. Whilst in 1640, King of Poland and Grand Duke of Lithuania Michał Korybut Wísniowiecki started lording it up. Sistine Chapel ceiling admirer who used to get a good view of St. Peter’s Square, Ambrogio Damiano Achille Ratti or Pope Pius XI had his first blessing in 1857. Cartoonist with the term named in his honour, William Heath Robinson had a simple birth in 1872. Oscar winning actor born Dominic Felix Amici, but known as Dom Amici, had a happy landing in 1908. Norwegian of the day – two time Olympic gold medal winning sailor, Thor Thorvaldsen had more than apparent wind in 1909. English luvvie and distinguished act tor, Denholm Mitchell Elliott traded places in 1922. Husband to Grace Kelly and long serving monarch Rainier III of Monaco gambled on being born in 1923. Action hardman and star of various dull spaghetti Westerns Clinton ‘Clint’ Eastwood Jr. felt lucky in 1930. 35th Prime Minister of New Zealand James Brendan ‘Jim’ Bolger joined the decent society in 1935. National service shirker, ex-gin and tonic server on Cunard who somehow became punchy Deputy Prime Minister in the United Kingdom – John Leslie Prescott, foisted himself on us in 1938. One third of folk singing group Peter, Paul and Mary – Peter Yarrow was born in these times, (well, 1938). Radiator staring champion, (managing five years in Lebanon), Archbishop of Canterbury’s envoy Terence Hardy ‘Terry’ Waite was released for the first time in 1939. Actress who starred in 1980’s American police series, Cagney & Lacey, Sharon Marguerite Gless turned about in 1943. Founder of Pineapple Dance Studios – Dorothy ‘Debbie’ Moore shimmied her way through in 1946. Everyone’s favourite cooking mum in the OXO ads, actress Meredith Lee Hughes/Lynda Bellingham was born in the general hospital back in 1948. Drummer with Led Zeppelin, John Henry Bonham was in through the out door in 1948. Ex-member of German electronic band Kraftwerk, Karl Bartos plugged in in 1952. Singer/‘impressionist’ Joseph Patrick Daniel ‘Joe’ Longthorne wasn’t talk of the town in 1955. Not to be outdone by Karl Bartos, (above), fellow band mate Freidrich ‘Fritz’ Hilpert was a lot more animated when born in 1956. Second Norwegian of the day – polar explorer who trekked across Antarctica solo, Børge Ousland had a team round him when born in 1962. Extra chunky gold chain wearing founder member of Run-D.M.C. Darryl Mathews McDaniels was unable to walk this way after birth in 1964. Ex-Mrs A Agassi, vegetable and nut loving, (they have feelings too you know), and sort of animal rights campaigner Brooke Christa Shields wasn’t freaked when born in 1965. Norwegian of the day, cross country skier Frode Estil had his dad on the piste in celebration of his son’s birth in 1972. Irish actor who’s featured in films such as In Bruges, Saving Mr Banks and one about a phone booth – Colin Farrell had his first starring role in 1976. He’s followed by British TV presenter June Konadu Sarpong who started producing dirty laundry in 1977. Not to be outdone, fellow TV presenter Reginald ‘Reggie’ Yates was prized apart from his mum in 1983.

Death wise, it’s a fairly quiet day but we start with Roman Emperor Petronius Maximus who relinquished, (well, was killed), after all of two and a half months in 455. Mum to Edward IV and Richard III – Cecily Neville gave up producing Kings of England in 1495. Renaissance painter Jacopo Comin, or Tintoretto found his name changed again in 1594 when he became Jacopo Gone. King Frederick William I of Prussia and Elector of Brandenburg, left the great city of Berlin in 1740. French astronomer Pierre Lemonnier saw it in the stars, (or was it the tea leaves?), that his time was up in 1757. Composer from the classical period – Franz Joseph Haydn didn’t make it to Symphony 105 in 1809. Credited with inventing the clown, (so luckily didn’t suffer from Coulrophobia), Joseph Grimaldi stopped messing about in 1837. Inventor of cheap man’s butter – margarine, Hippolyte Mège-Mouriés started to lose his fat in 1880. Inventor who patented the first espresso machine, Angelo Moriondo was no longer wired after 1914. Songwriter and mum to Stevie Wonder – Lula Mae Hardaway was quite down to earth in 2006. Drag queen who somehow had a successful career, Daniel Patrick Carroll or Danny La Rue, put his truss away for the last time in 2009. Co-creator of Trivial Pursuit Chris Haney found death a bit more serious in 2010. Finally, actress Jean Stapleton, (born Jeanne Murray), entered her final bunker in 2013.

With thanks to http://www.onthisday.com for filling in the gaps.

Famous & Infamous Births & Deaths 30th May

Births today start with British Prime Minister Henry Addington who took the oath to celebrate his birthday from 1757. Posh egg maker Peter Carl Fabergé hatched in 1846. Psychologist/therapist who coined terms ‘disassociation’ and ‘subconscious’ – Pierre Marie Félix Janet didn’t have a complex being born in 1859. Voice artist for various cartoons – Melvin Jerome ‘Mel’ Blanc, found his voice in 1908. Jazz musician and bandleader Benjamin David ‘Benny’ Goodman was the youngest swinger in town back in 1909. Academy award winning actor with the goatee beard – Hugh Emrys Griffith wasn’t the story on page one in 1912. El-Presidente of Bolivia – René Barrientos Ortunō, started in nappies, (diapers), in 1919 before graduating to sashes in later life. German actor Michael Andreas Mellinger had the awakening in 1929. Founder of upmarket disco, (Annabel’s), in London – Marcus Lecky Oswald Hornby Birley, who’s changed that to Mark Birley made some noise in 1930. First cosmonaut to take a spacewalk – Alexei Arkhipovich Leonov left the air lock in 1934. Canadian actress who’s known for her role in Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, (and has probably been dining out on that tale since), Ruta Mary Kilmonis, or just Ruta Lee didn’t have a particularly funny face in 1935. Lead singer with The Marvelettes – Gladys Catherine Horton was in full bloom back in 1945. Actor I know from his role in sit-com George & Mildred – Norman Eshley didn’t have late expectations given he also arrived in 1945. Fashion designer and founder of Hervé Leger – Hervé L Leroux didn’t have the bias cut in 1957. One half of Swedish pop group Roxette Gun-Marie Fredriksson, joined the joyride in 1958. Horsham, (Sussex), born latter day Dick Emery – sketch show star Henry Richard ‘Harry’ Enfield, started making people laugh in 1961. Bleached blonde mop headed singer with indie band The Charlatans, Timothy Allan ‘Tim’ Burgess came crashin’ in in 1967. Outrageous comedian with the bandaged wrist, Leigh Francis who goes by his alter ego Keith Lemon made it through the keyhole in 1973. Tubby, bald headed and extensively tattooed singer – Thomas DeCarlo Callaway, or just CeeLo Green started gettin’ growin in 1974. Previous spokesperson of Google and current CEO/President of Yahoo! Marissa Ann Mayer uncurled herself in 1975. Ex-Captain of Liverpool Football (soccer) team, Steven George Gerrard kicked things off in 1980.

As for deaths, subject of songs by both Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark and Doug Anthony All Stars, Maid of Orléans Joan of Arc found things a bit hot before going cold in 1431. King of France Charles IX faced less hostility dying in 1574. Lesser known Elizabethan writer and pal of William Shakespeare, Christopher ‘Kit’ Marlowe felt more than ruff today in 1593. Writer/philosopher and noted wit François-Marie Arouet who went by his nom de plume Voltaire, was quite philosophical about his death in 1778. Founder of MB Games Milton Bradley obviously tired of his board games in 1911. Thanks to Wilbur Wright we now have to suffer the likes of Ryanair, (or Spirit Airlines if you’re in America), but the oxygen mask didn’t fall fast enough for him in 1912. Overdressed King of Thailand Prajadhipok/Rama VII expired in Virginia Water in 1941. Dad to singing children as featured in The Sound of Music, Georg Johannes Ritter von Trapp had his so long, farewell moment in 1947. Author of Doctor Zhivago, (among others), Boris Pasternak was over the barriers in 1960. Actor William Claude Rains really did become the invisible man from 1967. Co-founder of (mainly) non-working biro company, Marcel Bich (or Bic), dried up in 1994. Frank Raymond Wilton ‘Lofty’ England, manager of Jaguar Cars Racing Team, came to an abrupt halt in 1995. Indian actor/director Rituparno Ghosh called it a wrap in 2013. Politician and son of current US President Joe – Joseph Robinette “Beau” Biden III succumbed to the big C in 2015. Drug trafficker who had a film made in his honour – Frank Lucas didn’t have his life cut short given he died aged 88 in 2019. Finally, Olympic gold medal winning athlete – Bobby Joe Morrow didn’t get his second wind in 2020.

With thanks to http://www.onthisday.com for filling in the gaps.

Famous & Infamous Births & Deaths 29th May

Ancient King of England, Scotland and Ireland – Charles II kicks things of today given he was born in 1630. Firebrand first and sixth Governor of Virginia – Patrick Henry was given liberty in 1736. Carpenter who came up with a practical folding wooden stepladder – John H. Balsley started on the bottom rung in 1823. Co-inventor, (with his wife), of tissue paper dress, (or graded sewing) patterns, Ebenezer Butterick had the stay stitch in 1826. Actress Beatrice Gladys Lillie who cut that down to Bea Lillie, had her parents ask her to walk a little faster a year or so after her arrival in 1894. Comedian now without an airport in California bearing his name, sometime, (but not that often) amusing Leslie Townes ‘Bob’ Hope was caught in the draught in 1903. Brewer of gassy beer as well as professing to represent his people as a politician, Hartland de Montarville Molson found his specific gravity in 1907. Probably the most famous Sherpa, born Namgyal Wangdi but better known as Tenzing Norgay struggled his way through in 1914. Also born that year, actor and dad to actor Stacy Keech Jr., – Walter Stacy Keach Sr., or Stacy Keech didn’t have a false identity in 1914. 35th President of the United States of America, the one with an airport, various schools, bridges and roads named in his honour, John Fitzgerald ‘Jack’ Kennedy democratically decided to arrive in the world in 1917. Non-relation to comedian Frankie, previous scorer on dull fest that is the Eurovision, (amongst other things), Caterina Irene Maria Imperiali Di Francavilla who went by the name Katie Boyle, Lady Saunders had her parents announce her birth in 1929. Actress and plugger of washing up liquid, Nanette Newman left the pit of darkness in 1934. Eighth President of Pakistan, Farooq Ahmad Khan Leghari started representing himself in 1940. Another fan of Mount Everest – British climber who made the first ascent of the south-west face of the mountain, Douglas Keith Scott started to suffer from alpine knee from 1941. Double denim fan with the fast receding hair line and three cord king on the guitar with Purley’s finest band, Francis Dominic Nicholas Michael Rossi started rockin’ gently in 1949. Composer of overrunning cartoon series The Simpsons theme tune, Daniel Robert ‘Danny’ Elfman scored a hit being born in 1953. Unhinged Jodie Foster fan, (obviously not knowing her personal preferences), and Ronnie’s attempted assassin, John Warnock Hinckley Jr. is still eating prison cake on his 68th birthday. Youngest sister of the family that takes chimps, wearing bowler hats and malfunctioning dresses as the norm, La Toya Yvonne Jackson was free to the world in 1956. Mrs Warren Beatty, or Annette Bening as she’s also known, found the great outdoors a reality in 1958. Potty mouthed actor, Rupert James Hector Everett didn’t suffer hysteria in 1959. Singer/songwriter Melissa Lou Etheridge has been brave and crazy since 1961. Singer/songwriter, noted wit and warring brother – Noel Thomas David Gallagher found time flies since being born in 1967. Actress and LBGTQ (which would have been London Britain’s Got Talent if it weren’t for the Q) – pin up Laverne Cox has no doubt about being born in 1972. One fifth of the Spice Girls, the girl group that somehow managed to take over the world in the mid to late 1990’s, ‘special’ friend of Geri and ex-partner to Eddie Murphy – Melanie Janine Brown, probably wasn’t that scary to her parents in 1975. Also born that year is hard to understand and not terribly amusing comedian Sarah Jane Millican, (née King).

As for deaths, armour suited King Christopher I of Denmark seized up in 1259. Hongxi Emperor of the Ming Dynasty or, to use his own name, Zhu Gaochi didn’t end up in a vase, rather a box in 1425. First European explorer to sail round Cape Agulhas – Bartolomeu Dias navigated his way to the cemetery in 1500. Wife of small French aggressor Napoleon I – Joséphine de Beauharnais found he wasn’t going to bother her again after 1814. Not only known for discovering the elemental nature of chlorine and iodine but also his miner’s safety lamp, Sir Humphry Davy saw the light dim in 1829. Prince of Serbia Mihailo Obrenović was taken out permanently in 1868. One half of dull English ‘comic’ operas, (and having suffered a couple of them, they are anything but comical), writing duo Sir William Schwenck Gilbert drew the curtain on his career in 1911. Not the gobby radio/television presenter, but film director – James Whale reached journey’s end in 1957. Co-founder of United Artists – Mary Pickford, went back to the soil in 1979. Having mentioned 35th President of the US of A, (above), it seems only fair to give a shout out to fifth Prime Minister of India, Charan Singh who gave up breathing in 1987. East German communist, (and hypocrite), murderous leader Erich Honecker saw the walls close in on him in 1994. Singer/songwriter who’s song Hallelujah has been covered by various people who can’t sing – born Jeffrey ‘Jeff’ Scott Buckley but raised as Scott Moorhead, found he didn’t have an eternal life in 1997. Having mentioned Dennis Lee Hopper on 17th May in honour of his birthday, here he is again given he rode off into the sunset back in 2010. Musician being the other half of Raw Sex – Simon Tracey Brint took his hearing aid out for the last time in 2011. Singer with R&B group The Dells – Marvin Junior has found there’s no way back since 2013. De facto ruler of Panama – Manuel Antonio Noriega Moreno left his hat hanging from 2017. Finally, tax dodging jockey Lester Piggott has been boxed in since 2022.

With thanks to http://www.onthisday.com for filling in the gaps.

Famous & Infamous Births & Deaths 28th May

First birth of the day goes to John the Fearless aka John of Valois and John I of Burgundy who showed what he was made of in 1371. Selim II of the Ottoman Empire was given a few years grace from 1524 until he was made to wear large puffed out hats. George I King of the United Kingdom and Ireland started the trend of royals bearing their name from 1660. Non-inventor of the guillotine and death penalty opponent, Joseph-Ignace Guillotin spliced through in 1738. Youngest British Prime Minister to take up the post, William Pitt the Younger was a real Tory wet in 1759. Pierre Gustave Toutant-Beauregard the American Confederate States Army General put up less resistance being born in 1818. Inventor of the blowtorch, Carl Richard Nyberg felt the heat after being delivered in 1858. Designer of ornate village Portmerion, (in North Wales), Bertram Clough Williams-Ellis took a different view of things from 1883. Writer of spy series James Bond, (yawn), and children’s book, ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’ – Ian Lancaster Fleming wasn’t shaken or stirred after 1908. Matriarch to far left acting dynasty, Rachel Redgrave, (née Kempson), had a touch of love in 1910. Blues guitarist Aaron Thibeaux ‘T-Bone’ Walker also entered this mean old world 1910. Sit-com star who also presented God slot programmes, and not forgetting the Churchill stairlift ads, Thora Hird thought she was the entertainer from 1911. Four time Prime Minister of Turkey, Mustafa Bülent Ecevit democratically left his party in good time from 1925. Canadian politician Claude Forget hasn’t forgotten his birthday since 1936. Ex-Mayor of New York who held steady after the 9/11 attacks but has subsequently been implicated in various alleged scandals – Rudolph William Loius ‘Rudy’ Giuliani didn’t flinch at being delivered 79 years ago. Also arriving 79 years ago – four time Grammy award winning singer Gladys Knight, (minus her pips). Chesty impressionist born Eunice Irene Carroll, but known as Faith Brown, has been up front about being born in 1944. Actress known for her character ‘Marlene’ in Only Fools and Horses, Susan Joan Pringle ‘Sue’ Holderness found that’ll be the day in 1949. New Romantic synth popster Steven John Harrington or as his make up artist knew him, Steve Strange had a normal birth in 1959. Singer with 80’s band Fine Young Cannibals, Roland Lee Gift found it’s ok to be born in 1962. Dishevelled know all comedian, David Lionel Baddiel found what time bedtime was from 1964. Gay friendly hot pant loving pop minstrel Kylie, (Boomerang), Minogue had tears on her pillow in 1968. Living Norwegian of the day, Jørgen Strickert started his fan club in 1980. Other singer with ex-boy band Westlife – Markus “Mark” Michael Patrick Feehily wasn’t quite face to face with his mum in 1980.

As for people taking up the undertaker’s offer, Archbishop of Canterbury – Lanfranc started counting worms in 1089. Afonso IV of Portugal was brave to the end in 1357. American lexicographer Noah Webster Jr., kept the same spelling for dead in 1843. Youngest sis of the Brontë clan, Anne Brontë dropped her quill in 1849. John Russell, 1st Earl Russell or even Lord John Russell, two time British Prime Minister found his luck ran out, (again), in 1878. One of the Nazi sympathising Mitford Sisters, Unity Mitford found more than her arm rigidly straight in 1948. Edward VIII King of the United Kingdom and its associated Dominions of the British Empire, (before he was snagged by Wallis Simpson), found he didn’t have to clean his medals after 1972. Known as Mr Grainger in 1970’s sit-com Are You Being Served? Frederick Arthur Baker/Arthur Brough checked out in 1978. Hero of the Falklands War, Lieutenant Colonel Herbert ‘H’ Jones (VC) didn’t manage to dodge the bullet in 1982. Comedian John Eric Bartholomew, or as he was better known, Eric Morecombe, found eternal sunshine in 1984. Actor/comedian Philip Edward Hartmann wasn’t the houseguest from 1998. Actress Martha Ellen Scott had more than one foot in heaven in 2003. Dead Norwegian of the day goes to ski jumper/author Thorleif Schjelderup who started enjoying the apres-ski from 2006. Artist known for her portly ladies, Beryl Cook has left the smock unwashed from 2008. Actor Terence Joseph Alexander found death is a number in 2009. Diminutive sit-com actor Gary Coleman was left wondering what Willis was talkin’ about before expiring in 2010. Not terribly popular ex-owner of both Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Manchester United, Michael Glazer wasn’t granted extra time in 2012. Children’s television presenter known for his stint with Shep on Blue Peter – John W Bottomley aka John Noakes, weighed anchor in 2017. Finally, actress Patricia Brake has been going straight since 2022.

With thanks to http://www.onthisday.com for filling in the gaps.

Famous & Infamous Births & Deaths 27th May

Births today begin with Dutch Prince, William II fan of Orange, (well before creosoting yourself became fashionable), started out in white linen back in 1626. Creator of the wind scale bearing his name, navy man Francis Beaufort started charting his life from 1774. Known for her name associated with ladies undergarments, women’s rights and her temperance views, Amelia Jenks Bloomer found the right to be born in 1818. Lanky haired tall story teller, James Butler Hickok or as he styled himself, Wild Bill Hickok, gambled on arriving in 1837. Seventh President of Portugal – Manuel Teixeira Gomes, entered the fray in 1860. It’s quite amazing you don’t mention any horror film actors for months and then three come along within two days – yesterday was Peter Cushing’s turn and today first we see Vincent Price who was master of the world in 1911. Pulitzer Prize winning author Herman Wouk was inside, outside in 1915. Actor who played Chin Ho Kelly from Hawaii Five-O, Kam Tong Chan but altered it slightly to Kam Fong Chun detected the best day in 1918. The other horror film actor born today is Peter Cushing’s acting buddy from the Hammer Horror films – Christopher Frank Carandini Lee peeped out from behind his sheet in 1922. 56th United States Secretary of State, born Heinz Alfred Kissinger but known as Henry Kissinger, was quite diplomatic about his birth in 1923. Hard drinking journalist Jeffrey Joseph Bernard was born in 1932. Jazz composer/pianist who came up with Hang on Sloopy, (among others) – Ramsey Emmanuel Lewis Jr., has been part of the in crowd since 1935. 1960’s warbler who was always on the look out for a new hat, Priscilla Maria Veronica White, but went by the name of Cilla Black, found out what it was all about in 1943. Professional cardboard box loving actor Lewis Collins crashed through in 1946. Magazine publisher and poet Felix Dennis found there was no ambiguity over his birthdate from 1947. Light-heavyweight boxer John Anthony Conteh found the cutman in 1951. Controversial Australian politico born Pauline Lee Seccombe but known as Pauline Hanson didn’t bother with the exit poll in 1954. Punk singer Susan Janet Ballion or Siouxsie Sioux had a slowdive in 1957. Also born that year is worthy winner of Olympic gold and bronze medals for paddling round the pool, Duncan Alexander Goodhew. Kiwi music maker, founding member of both Split Endz and Crowded House, Neil Finn was locked out in 1958. Keeping with the Antipodean theme, Australian parkour and tennis champion, Patrick Hart ‘Pat’ Cash bounced into life in 1965. Seeing as I’ve given space to his co-stars of Diff’rent Strokes, it’s only fair Todd Anthony Bridges gets a mention too as he was the baby of the family in 1965. Named after a service station on the M4 motorway, chef Heston Blumenthal became a happy eater in 1966. Geordie ball kicker and crier with various issues, Paul John Gascoigne will be weeping into his cake given he’s now 56. Non-guilty editor of News International newspapers in the shocking phone hacking scandal, Rebekah Brooks got the circulation going in 1968. Another ex-leader of the Yellow Team in British politics, Timothy James ‘Tim’ Fallon wasn’t first past the post in 1970 given he prefers proportional representation. Also born that year act tor and non relation to Ralph, Joseph Alberic Twistleton-Wykeham-Fiennes was the escapist. Singer Lisa ‘Left Eye’ Lopes had the doctors in scrubs during her birth in 1971. Lisping chef who closed his restaurants in virtually every town in Britain, and who’s named is plastered all over various kitchen utensils/equipment, not forgetting being a campaigner for better school meals, (chips are always good), James Trevor ‘Jamie’ Oliver was delivered to the world in 1975. Another person born that year is André Lauren Benjamin or André 3000 found he wasn’t an outcast, whilst in 1991 Kiwi rugby player Beauden John Barrett learnt about latching on. Daughter to actor who was in dispute with one of his ex-wives and two hit wonder Vanessa Paradis – Lily-Rose Melody Depp, didn’t give her parents a silent night for a few years after 1999.

Death wise, I re-visited this as previously the first one I’ve reported for today was in 1949, however, we now go back a bit further given Roman usurper Procopius was tied to two bent trees in 366. King of Asturias, Ordoño I left the sunshine behind in 866. Theologian born Jehan Calvin before going onto be known as John Calvin was unable to use a polemic statement about his death in 1564. Assassin of King IV of France – François Ravaillac found himself drawn and quartered in 1610. Françoise-Athénaïs de Rochechouart de Mortemart, Marquise of Montespan or Madame de Montespan, mistress of King Louis XIV of France lost the friends with benefits tag in 1707. Sort of dead Norwegian of the day – Sophie Magdalene of Brandenburg-Kulmbach queen-consort of Denmark and Norway may have started her days in Germany, but they ended in Copenhagen back in 1770. Laziest man in history, (and it’s not one of my work colleagues), but Jeremiah Carlton who apparently inherited a fortune at 19 and then retired to bed for the next 70 years was finally prised out of the sheets in 1790. Founder of dull fact exhibition bearing his name – LeRoy Robert Ripley, (or just Robert Ripley), had to believe it was his last day on the planet in 1949. First Prime Minister of India who learnt a lot from Ghandi, Jawaharlal Nehru followed his mentor in 1964. World heavyweight boxing champion – Ezzard Mack Charles suffered the ultimate KO in 1975. President/CEO of company he liked so much he bought it – Remington Shavers, Victor Kermit Kiam II was unable to keep going for it! after 2001. Actor Paul Xavier Gleason has been unable to say, ‘C’mon let’s live a little’ from 2006. Inventor of the modern day hot air balloon, Paul Edward ‘Ed’ Yost headed the other way being six feet under in 2007. William Desmond Anthony ‘Bill’ Pertwee best known as ARP warden Hodges in 1970’s BBC sit-com Dad’s Army, put those lights out in 2013. Designer of signage for the New York City Subway Massimo Vignelli found himself underground in 2014. Finally, co-founder of brothers band bearing their surname and known for their tune being played every time Top Gear is shown – Gregory LeNoir Allman was a bit premature thinking ‘it ain’t over yet’ in 2017.

With thanks to http://www.onthisday.com for filling in the gaps.

Famous & Infamous Births & Deaths 26th May

Today’s births paragraph starts with Giulio do Giuliano de Medici, or as people in the confessions booth knew him, Pope Clement VII had a legitimate birth in 1478. Norwegian of the day goes to sketcher and painter, Olaf Leonhard Gulbransson who had a decent hair line when delivered in 1873. Born Asa Yoelson, or just Al Jolson who took to blacking himself up and was, (apparently), ‘The World’s Greatest Entertainer’, left his mammy in 1886. Banjolele/ukulele player with t’northern accent, George Hoy Booth but probably better known as George Formby, wasn’t fretting about being born in 1904. Star of various dull western films and regular at Eat at Joe’s, Redondo Beach, California, (worth a visit if you’re ever that way), The Duke – Marion Robert Morrison or John Wayne rolled into town back in 1907. Bushy eye browed rotund actor Robert Adolph Wilton Morley had his curtain up moment in 1908. Long term manager of Manchester United, and it’s not gum chewing hot tempered Alex Ferguson but Alexander Matthew ‘Matt’ Busby cleared the corridor of uncertainty in 1909. Actor known for his role as Tonto in The Lone Ranger, Harold John Smith who went by the name Jay Silverheels, showed true grit in 1912. Regular of Hammer House of Horrors films, Kenley, (Surrey), born Peter Wilton Cushing didn’t scare his folks when born in 1913. Singer born Norma Delores Egstrom but known to her fan as Peggy Lee, was Miss Wonderful from 1920. Known for his trumpet playing – Miles Dewey Davis III started trumping in 1926. Founder of competitor to the title of ‘Bain of every council in the world’ – fast food outlet Burger King, David R. Edgerton was flipped upon arrival in 1927. Part of bickering partner’s group, Fleetwood Mac, Stephanie Lynn ‘Stevie’ Nicks went her own way in 1948. Other half to Crockett, non shiny suit wearer with the sleeves rolled up – Philip Michael Thomas or Ricardo Tubbs to those who remember Miami Vice, hasn’t had a stigma being born in 1949. Also born that year, scrubby bearded friend of the IRA and ex-leader of the red team in Britain who didn’t get a grip on anti-semitism in his party – Jeremy Bernard Corbyn wasn’t opposed to being delivered. Another person born in 1949 is inventor of ‘wiki’ – Howard G. ‘Ward’ Cunningham hasn’t edited his birthdate, despite writing the software to do so. Singer/songwriter with the beard and sunglasses – Randall Hank Williams, but known as Hank Williams Jr., has carried on the family tradition since 1949. First female American astronaut to venture into space – Sally Kristen Ride found the escape velocity in 1951. Wearer of garish blazers and chinos whilst travelling around Britain and Europe by train reading an old book, ex-MP Michael Denzil Xavier Portillo steamed through in 1953. Actress Margaret Colin was pretty in pink back in 1958. Singer Colin Vearncombe who’s better known as Black, was more red in 1964. Leonard Albert ‘Lenny’ Kravitz the American singer who likes his sunglasses, found it ain’t over till it’s over, (although that could also be used as his epitaph), in 1964. Classic English actress who’s starred in a few of the Harry Potter (yawn) films, Helena Bonham Carter won’t be popping next door to her ex-partners pad for cake in celebration of her 57th birthday. Also celebrating her 57th birthday today is Zola Budd the South African, (or is she British?), barefoot jogger and tripper upper at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. Frederik, Crown Prince of Denmark, Count of Monpezat may well crack open a can of Carlsberg Super Brew given he’s reached his 55th birthday. Co-creator of cartoon series South Park and co-developer of The Book of Mormon – Matthew Richard ‘Matt’ Stone was bigger, longer and uncut in 1971. Ginger haired actress from BBC soap Eastenders (yawn) – born Julie Anne Harris or Patsy Palmer didn’t find birth a drama in 1972. Temperamental singer with The Fugees, Lauryn Noelle Hill found the world turns in 1975. Short lived Chancellor of the Exchequer under disastrous PM Liz Truss – Akwasi Addo Alfred ‘Kwasi’ Kwarteng gambled on arriving in 1975. Comedian who’s sold out by plugging useless internet provider, PlusNet, (though they should be called MinusNet), Jason John Manford’s parents were actually doing him proud when born in 1981.

Death wise, having mentioned Pope Clement VII (above), here’s Augustine of Canterbury, the first ever Archbishop of the Cathedral city who hung his mitre up way back in 604, (or was it 605?). King of the English, Edmund I found his time was up in 946. Eminent diary keeper, (as dairy keeper wouldn’t quite be the same), Samuel Pepys didn’t enter his thoughts from 1703. French equivalent of Robin Hood – highway man Louis Mandrin had a very public death in 1755. Bloody neurologist who discovered swearing and tic laden sodding condition bearing his name, Georges Gilles de la Tourette was effin’ brown bread in 1904. Co-founder of clinic using his name, Charles Horace Mayo was spread thinly in 1939. Oldest son of Henry who followed his old man into the family business and also had a range of unsuccessful cars named after him, Edsel Bryant Ford came to the end of his particular road in 1943. Singer with The O’Jays, William Powell, jumped off the love train in 1977. Side kick to Bette Davis in her films, actor George Brent lost the right to live in 1979. Inventor of fetishists favourite material polyvinyl chloride, (or PVC) – Waldo Lonsbury Semon found himself wrapped in pine back in 1999. Actress of stage and screen Anne Ryan Thomas Haney succumbed to the forces of nature in 2001. Co-founder of scale model car company, Matchbox – Leslie Charles Smith needed a bigger box to be carried off in 2005. Grandson of the original Michelin man, Édouard Michelin found his tyres didn’t float in 2006. 2008 saw film director Sydney Pollack have his eyes wide shut for good. Founder of Surfer magazine, John Severson has been locked in his coffin since 2017. Co-founder of Atari and coder for ‘Pong’ – Samuel Frederick Dabney Jr. stopped waggling his joystick in 2018. Casino tycoon in Macau – Stanley Ho Hung-sun was unable to hold out any longer after today in 2020. Finally, co-founder of dirge synth-rock group Depeche Mode, Andrew John ‘Andy’ Fletcher, or just ‘Fletch’ didn’t get to hear the songs or devotion at his funeral in 2022. Also not making it through that year – actor Ray Liotta found his ticket out of here.

With thanks to http://www.onthisday.com for filling in the gaps.

Famous & Infamous Births & Deaths 25th May

Sixth Emperor of the Song Dynasty – born Zhao Zhongzhen, before adopting Zhao Xu and then taking the title of Emperor Shenzong of Song, didn’t have people singing ‘Happy Birthday’ to him from 1048. Abu’l Fath Nasir-ud-Din Mahmud Shah I, Mahmud Begarha or Mahmud Begada, the Sultan of Gujarat found he had faith in being born in 1458. Tights wearing Prime Minister of Great Britain, John Stuart left his initial deposit in 1713. Newspaper baron, (among other things), William Maxwell ‘Max’ Beaverbrook was hot off the presses in 1879. Helicopter and aeroplane designer Igor Ivanovich Sikorsky started hovering around from 1889. First Prime Minister of Burma – U Nu, didn’t take long to get to know his name after 1907. Heavyweight journalist and dad to both Jonathan & David, Frederick Richard Dimbleby turned out in 1913. First Norwegian of the day, silver medal Olympic sailor Peder Lunde Sr was a little boy in 1918. Other half of easy listening, (for some), songwriting duo Bacharach & David, Harold Lane ‘Hal’ David had all the time in the world in 1921. Novelist Robert Ludlum had the bourne ultimatum in 1927. Actor known for his roles in The Lord of the Rings, (yawn) and The Hobbit, (double yawn), along with his Shakespearean work, Ian McKellen was centre stage in 1939. Puppeteer behind Miss Piggy and Fozzie Bear from non-amusing show The Muppets, Frank Richard Oz(nowicz), was in, then out having been delivered in 1944. Founder of chain The Chicago Pizza Pie Factory – Robert Michael Payton met his grandma in 1944. Disgraced radio DJ born David Patrick Griffin but known professionally as Dave Lee Travis aka ‘The Hairy Cornflake’ took the lunchtime slot back in 1945. Playwright responsible for The Vagina Monologues – Eve Ensler, also known as ‘V’ didn’t fanny about in 1953. Reggae singer Lincoln Barrington ‘Sugar’ Minott had a good thing going in 1956. Woking, (Surrey), born mod-father John William ‘Paul’ Weller Jr. started speaking like a child in 1958. One time risqué comedian, sole member of The Joan Collins Fan Club, (or two if you count Fanny the Wonder Dog), and Norman Lamont’s mate – Julian Peter McDonald Clary made his own unique entry to the world in 1959. Canadian comedy actor, who came up with Austin Powers and the not so great Love Guru, Michael John ‘Mike’ Myers started shrieking in 1963. Actress Anne Celeste Heche was walking and talking about a year after her birth in 1969. Actor Cillian Murphy didn’t retreat in 1976. Rugby player with the distinctive kicking style, Jonathan Peter ‘Jonny’ Wilkinson got his initial hospital pass in 1979, whilst in 1982 other Norwegian of the day, footballer Daniel Braaten winged it.

Today isn’t one to be a Pope or an Archbishop, though on the plus side, the bloke fanning the white smoke got some overtime as Pope Boniface IV rolled over in 615. Not to be outdone by Boniface, (above), Pope Gregory VII followed him in 1085 with Pope Alexander IV also deciding to stop breathing in 1261. They were joined by Archbishop of Canterbury John Stafford who wanted a bit of inaction from 1452. Cartographer who created globes as we know them, Jemme Reinerszoon, or as he became known Gemma Frisius rather ironically became a flat earther in 1555. King Peter III of Portugal lost some weight from 1786. Another Archbishop of Canterbury, Randall Davidson didn’t have to bother selecting hymns from 1930. Composer born Gustav Theodore Von Holst, before abbreviating that to Gustav Theodore Holst found the glory of the west in 1934. Earlier version of Dr. Harold Shipman, French quack and serial killer Marcel André Henri Félix Petiot found himself on the wrong end of a guillotine in 1946. Also not making it through that year, co-writer of tune which morphed into ‘Happy Birthday to You’, Patty Smith Hill had a few other, (non-self penned), tunes sung at her funeral. King Idris I of Libya, until Muammar Gadaffi took over proceedings in 1969, didn’t have a crown or cape to put down in 1983. Actress Patricia Doreen ‘Pat’ Coombes found the laughs dried up in 2002. Ska, rocksteady and reggae singer Desmond Adolphus Dacres, (or Decker), found you can get it if you really want it, (though that probably doesn’t apply to the heart attack that finished him off in 2006). Dead Norwegian of the day, politician Hakkon Lie adopted the supine position in 2009. Indian actor Dilip faded out in 2012. First President of the Republic of Poland before becoming second President of the Polish People’s Republic, Wojciech Jaruzelski found himself deadski in 2014. Finally, hip hop artist George Perry Floyd Jr., found fame for the wrong reasons in 2020.

With thanks to http://www.onthisday.com for filling in the gaps.

Famous & Infamous Births & Deaths 24th May

People born today include, among others, commander in the Roman Empire – Julius Caesar Germanicus had his parents take inspiration from someone else in 15BC. Daniel Gabriel Fahrenheit rival inventor to Anders Celsius warmed to 37C, (or 98.6F), after being born in 1686. Sour faced, Prince Albert loving, long serving, (and mourning), sitter of the throne, Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom and Ireland, along with being Empress of India, held court in 1819. Known equally for his confectionery as for his philanthropy, Joseph Rowntree was a real sweetie in 1836. Second Prime Minister of South Africa, Jan Christiaan Smuts kept it clean from 1870. Inventor of peanut butter cups who got a mention a few days ago, Harry Burnett (‘H.B’) Reese obviously wasn’t allergic to birth given he made it through in 1879. Soprano singer/golfer – Joan Hilda Hood Hammond didn’t arrive with the croquet style in 1912. Irish actress Siobhán Giollamhuire Nic Cionnaith, but known as Siobhán McKenna entered stage right in 1923. Comedian Stanley Baxter impressed his parents in 1926. Actor born Michael Edward Lonsdale-Crouch and then known as Michael Lonsdale was out 1 in 1931. Marijuana expert and one half of comedy duo Cheech & Chong – Thomas B. Kin ‘Tommy’ Chong was a mellow baby having been delivered in 1938. Singer/songwriter born Cecil Bustamente Campbell who took a slightly hipper name of Prince Buster reached the big five in 1943, (having been born in 1938). Folk musician and singer/songwriter with the nasal tone, Robert Albert Zimmerman or Bob Dylan was just as hard to understand back in 1941. Singer born Patricia Louise Holt-Edwards, but flogs records under the name Patti LaBelle, turned it out in 1944. Wife of fried squirrel and peanut butter sandwich lover, Elvis – sometime panto star Priscilla Ann Presley, (née Wagner), started to grace this land from 1945. Singer/song writer and founding member of Blue Öyster Cult – Albert Bouchard has, (heaven forbid), celebrated his birthday since 1947. Versatile actor James ‘Jim’ Broadbent wasn’t born topsy turvey in 1949. Eldest daughter to country singer Johnny Cash – singer/songwriter Rosanne Cash didn’t suffer the seven year ache after her birth in 1955. Kristin Scott Thomas was the English patient, (or baby), in 1960. Dancer/actor from 80’s fad film and television series Fame – Gene Anthony Ray had his parents put the leg warmers on him from 1963. Olympic paddler and gold medalist at the Seoul Games, Adrian David Moorhouse pushed his way off in 1964. Not only a ball kicker but also adept at the Kung Fu style too, would be French philosopher Éric Daniel Pierre Cantona wasn’t off side in 1966. Reclining Conservative MP who wears a top hat most of the time – Jacob William Rees Mogg was born 100 years too late in 1969. My twin sisters Claire & Lisa arrived in 1971, whilst 1973 saw Radio 2 DJ who likes the sound of his own voice, (and I’m not talking Steve Wright), but Dermot O’Dreary experience his first audience. Person who claims to be developer of Parkour, Sébastien Foucan was free running a couple of years after being born in 1974. Norwegian of the day, Mohammed Fellah was a mere baby in 1974. Son of Regent and Hereditary Prince of Liechtenstein Prince Alois, Prince Joseph Wenzel of Liechtenstein has carried on the minor royal line since 1995. Matthew Eappen didn’t know what his nanny would be like when he was born in 1996.

Deaths begin with David I of Scotland who found his kilt didn’t lift up in the wind after 1153. Sultan of Morocco – Abu Al-Hasan ‘Ali ibn ‘Othman has left the tajin left unwashed since 1351. Mathematician/astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus, stopped seeing stars in 1542. English statesman who discovered the Gunpowder Plot – Robert Cecil, 1st Earl of Salisbury, didn’t get to go up in smoke as he ended up in a graveyard at Hatfield Parish Church in 1612. Architect of Lenin’s Mausoleum – Aleksey Shchusev didn’t have Lenin design his grave in 1949. Band leader Edward Kennedy ‘Duke’ Ellington stopped waving his arms about in 1974. Policeman actor born Horace John Waters, but known as Jack Warner has his Bang! You’re Dead moment in 1981. Founder of WWF – World Wrestling Federation, oh, sorry, WWE – World Wrestling Entertainment, Vincent James ‘Vince’ McMahon Sr. was on the ropes in 1984. Acerbic/eccentric actress Hermione Ferdinanda Gingold didn’t get to work out the butler’s dilemma before her Demi’s in 1987. Singer/songwriter and founding member of The Byrds – Harold Eugene “Gene” Clark was unable to say, ‘I feel a whole lot better’ this day in 1991. Stage/television actress who I remember from her role in Fawlty Towers, Joan Sanderson joined the ghosts of Motley Hall in 1992. Pipe smoking Prime Minister of Great Britain in the mid 1970’s with the odd voice and majority of just 3, James Harold Wilson had his last gasp in 1995. Actor Edward Mulhare reached the outer limits in 1997. Having mentioned his daughter Roseann, (above), here’s Johnny Cash’s first wife – Vivian Liberto found her days of wearing gingham blouses over in 2005. Comedian Thomas Richard ‘Dick’ Martin has been more west than north of Pittsburgh since 2008. Reigate resident, ventriloquist, (and ex-neighbour of mine), Ray Alan made Lord Charles redundant in 2010. Actor known for his role in The Pink Panther, Herbert Tsangtse ‘Burt’ Kwouk found the gate to heaven in 2016. Last surviving munchkin from The Wizard of Oz, born Gerard Marenghi but known as Jerry Maren has been under the rainbow since 2018. Finally Academy award winning actor/singer – Samuel Ernest Wright has been the hollow image since 2021.

With thanks to http://www.onthisday.com for filling in the gaps.

Famous & Infamous Births & Deaths 23rd May

Births today start with ancient King of the Franks, Philip I, (work that one out), crowned a great day for his mum way back in 1052. Collector of enough items to open a museum bearing his name – Elias Ashmole began cataloguing his life from 1617. Doctor who’s associated with animal magnetism – Franz Friedrich Anton Mesmer was mesmerised by his birth in 1734. Architect responsible for rebuilding the Palace of Westminster, (or for those who use brown sauce, Houses of Parliament), Charles Barry had a measured entrance to the world in 1795. Eleventh President of Brazil, Epitácio Lindolfo da Silva Pessoa was a natural born leader in 1865. Actor born Douglas Elton Thomas Ullman before changing it to Douglas Fairbanks was headin’ south in 1883. Norwegian of the day, mathematician Thoralf Albert Skolem started keeping tabs from 1883. Aviatrice with a few world records to her name, Hélène Boucher glided through in 1908. Also born that year, two time Nobel prize winning engineer who co-invented the transistor John Bardeen didn’t resist being delivered. Actor John Payne gave his mum fair warning of his arrival in 1912, whereas founder of the Voluntary Service Overseas – Alexander Graeme Dixon didn’t give his mum any choice in 1914. Cricketer in the summer and penalty taker for Arsenal in the winter, Dennis Charles Scott Compton wasn’t offside when delivered in 1918. Jazz musician/broadcaster – Humphrey Richard Adeane Lyttelton didn’t have the humph being born in 1921. Another broadcaster – Desmond Herbert Carrington didn’t hit the post during birth in 1924. Actor Arthur Nigel Davenport had the cry of the innocent in 1928. Cabaret singer/actress – Rosemary Clooney, (paternal aunt to George), found she started something in 1928. Five time married ex-plugger of miniscule Snickers chocolate bars, Joan Henrietta Collins did her homework as to the best day to be born on in 1933. Founder of music company bearing his name as well as inventing the synthesizer with his name plastered over it, Robert Arthur ‘Bob’ Moog made some noise in 1934. Children’s television presenter and breakfast DJ Zoë’s old man – born Graham Thalben Ball, before changing it to Johnny Ball, has been thinking of a number, (currently 85), since 1938. General Norman Johnson, singer with Chairman of the Board didn’t give his mum any more time given he was born in 1943. Former member of bomb enthusiasts group the IRA, and ex-Deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland, James Martin Pacelli McGuinness rose through the ranks from 1950. Master pawn and king mover across chess boards, Anatoly Yevgeny Karpov had his opening gambit in 1951. Also born that year, actor known for his role in Rising Damp – born Donald Williams, but now goes by the name of Don Warrington made his first appearance. Boxer born Marvin Nathaniel Hagler, or as he’s now known – Marvellous Marvin Hagler settled on being born this day in 1952. Other half of 80’s popster band Dollar – Thereza Bazar found it’s nature’s way in 1957. Also born that year, singer with another 80’s band – Baltimora, James Harry ‘Jimmy’ McShane wasn’t living in the background. Former US Marine Corps before hitting the comedy circuit in America – Drew Allison Carey joined the community in 1958, and a year later comedian you either love or hate, (guess which camp I’m in), Robert Renwick ‘Bob’ Mortimer joined the circuit. Actress Melissa Suzanne McBride is living proof she was born in 1965. Retired English cricketer Graeme Ashley Hicks was all out in 1966. Frugal ex-bean counter for the United Kingdom and carrier of the red box carrying whiskey/dull papers, as well as being ex-editor of the London Evening Standard – born Gideon Oliver Osborne, but better known as George, found he was dispatched for the first time in 1971. A year later Brazillian driver who goes round the same track 100 or so times but has yet to win a championship, Rubens Barrichello got the slipstream right in 1972. Actor/comedian Richard Ellef Ayoade was a little bruiser in 1977. Singer with Welsh group The Pipettes, Gwenno Mererid Saunders or Gwenno Pipette started to pull shapes in 1981. Fellow singer with not only Atomic Kitten but also Sugababes, Heidi India Range was caught in a moment back in 1983.

Deathwise, Pedro Martínez de Luna y Pérez de Gotor or Antipope Benedict XIII was unable to succeed in surviving the day way back in 1423. Shah of Persia, (Iran) – Ismail I didn’t have such a sunny disposition in 1524. Scottish pirate Captain William Kidd walked the plank in 1701. American frontiersman Christopher Houston ‘Kit’ Carson entered the legend book in 1868. Dead Norwegian of the day goes to writer of Peer Gynt with the extensive mutton chops, Henrik Yohan Ibsen had his own burial mound from 1906. Bonnie, (Parker), and Clyde, (Barrow), the American gangsters, (well before the Bloods and the Crips came along), were both quite literally blown away in 1934. Person with various sites in New York named after him, John Davison Rockefeller Sr. didn’t have to worry about his funeral expenses in 1937 given he was worth in excess of $1.4 billion back then, (and in case you’re wondering how much that is today, it’s approx $23 billion apparently). Founder of car manufacturer bearing his name, Herbert Austin, 1st Baron Austin – trundled off into the sunset back in 1941. One time mate of Hitler, Heinrich Luitpold Himmler stopped goose stepping in 1945. Creator of neon lighting, Georges Claude, saw everything go very dark in 1960. Lorreta Mary Aiken or Jackie ‘Moms’ Mabley was no longer out on a limb from 1975. Co-founder of Dutch vehicle manufacturer DAF – Hubert Josef ‘Hub’ van Doorne didn’t get into hearses until 1979. Musician/singer with rave band The Shamen, William ‘Will’ Sinnott hasn’t been en-tact since 1991. Ninth President of South Korea, Roh Moo-hyun stopped eating dogs in 2009. Indian cricketer Madhav Krishnaji Mantri went through the gate in 2014. Subject of book and film ‘A Beautiful Mind’ mathematician John Forbes Nash Jr., didn’t work out his date of death in 2015. James Bond actor with an eye brow doing its own thing – Roger Moore wasn’t the man who wouldn’t die given he keeled over in 2017. Fellow actor and ex-husband to Yootha Joyce, Glynn Edwards called time in 2018. Children’s author and illustrator Eric Carle reached the end of his story in 2021. Finally, racing driver/lawyer with an adventurous personal life and son of black shirt Oswald – Max Rufus Mosley hasn’t had to worry about the red tops since 2021.

With thanks to http://www.onthisday.com for filling in the gaps.

Famous & Infamous Births & Deaths 22nd May

Births today begin with Princess Elizabeth of the United Kingdom, (and no it’s not the last queen, even though she was knocking on a bit), who turned out to be the seventh child, (and third daughter), of King George III and Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz in 1770. Physicist and inventor of not only the first electromagnets but also the first practical electric motor, William Sturgeon sparked into life back in 1783. Stephen Fry looky likey who was into various musical things, Wilhelm Richard Wagner conducted his entrance to the world in 1813. Writer of classic crime capers featuring Sherlock Holmes & Co, (when he wasn’t doctoring on the side), Arthur Ignatius Conan Doyle started the memories and adventures from 1859. Fifth Prime Minister of South Africa Daniel François Malan had separation issues from his mum in 1874. Creator of dull cartoon series Tintin, Georges Prosper Remi or to give him his pen name, Hergé, was joined by another English luvvie actor, Laurence Olivier, who arrived without prompting in 1907. Known in America for being the voice of The Price is Right, John Leonard ‘Johnny’ Olson kept his family guessing until his arrival into the world in 1910. One of the oldest swingers in town, (until his death in 2018), and singer – Shahnour Varinag Aznavourian or Charles Aznavour got to star in his first act in 1924. Subject of film starring left leaning actor Sean Penn, Harvey Milk was very happy, (some might say gay), being born in 1930. Band leader and trumpet player Kenneth Daniel ‘Kenny’ Ball was full of wind having also been born in 1930. Small pith helmet wearing bespectacled actor/singer born Ronald Edwards, but known as Don Estelle got to hear the whispering grass from 1933. Engineer who contributed significantly to liquid crystal displays (LCD) – George Harry Heilmeier had clear vision in 1936. Actor Paul Edward Winfield found it’s good to be alive from 1939, (until 2004). Former sprinter who went onto lead the yellow team in Britain – Walter Menzies ‘Ming’ Campbell was, unsurprisingly, born in Scotland back in 1941. Theodore John Kaczynski aka ‘The Unabomber’ professed to being born in 1942. Ex-Upper Gatton, (Surrey) resident and bar propper in The Chequers Pub, (Walton-on-the-Hill, Surrey), George Best kicked his way out in 1946. Reg Dwight’s mate, Bernard John ‘Bernie’ Taupin started the circle of life in 1950. Having mentioned George Heilmeier, (above), here we have inventor of the blue LED – Shuji Nakamura saw the way through in 1954. Late camp creosote fan and host of ex-quiz on the National Lottery show, Dale Jonathan Winton dropped by in 1955. Gladioli swinging miserablist Manc songster Steven Patrick Morrissey, or just Morrissey, won’t be munching on vegetable cake to console himself reaching his 64th birthday. Now a mum, mobile phone throwing champion and temperamental ‘super’ model who likes chunky shoes, Naomi Elaine Campbell, launched herself off in 1970. Actress and younger sister to Kyle, (mentioned a couple of days back) – Alison Eastwood started having the breakfast of champions in 1972. Fijian born Irish hurler and Gaelic footballer – Seán Óg Ó hAilpín didn’t have the double arrive in 1977. Another slightly different ‘model’, (among other things), Katrina Amy Alexandra Alexis Infield who became Jordan, before being known as Katie Price pushed it to the limit in 1978. According to the rankings, current No.1 net avoider, dodger of COVID jabs and three time winner of Wimbledon along with a few other tennis tournaments around the world, ‘No vacs’ Djokovic rallied in 1987.

As for deaths, they appear to be a bit thin on the ground, but we do start with latter day Julius Caesar – Roman Emperor Constantine the Great/Constantine I/Saint Constantine left it a good few years after his death in 337 to get people excited about him. Pope Alexander VII who took 80 days to become Pope found it took only one to die in 1667. First First Lady of the United States of America – Martha Washington was also the First dead First Lady of the United States of America having not made it through today in 1802. King of the Two Sicilies with the jaunty angled hat, Ferdinand II was nearly taken out in 1856, but managed to hang on until 1859. Writer of not only Les Misérables but also The Hunchback of Notre Dame – Victor Hugo didn’t get to ring in the changes from 1885. First Disc Jockey in the United Kingdom – Major Christopher Reynolds Stone started spinning in his grave from 1965. Having mentioned wobbly chinned English actress Dame Margaret Taylor Rutherford a few days ago, here she is again given the curtain came down in 1972. Also not making it through that year is dad to Daniel Day-Lewis, Cecil Day Lewis had his buried day. Wolfgang Reitherman who’s probably not known for his work on various classic Disney cartoons, found himself less than animated in 1985. Lee Jong-wook, sixth Director General of World Health Organisation obviously wasn’t feeling too healthy given he died in 2006. Soldier and drummer Lee Rigby unfortunately found himself in the wrong place at the wrong time in 2013. Upper class actress born Nedenia Marjorie Hutton, but known as Dina Merrill wished she could turn back the clock in 2017. Finally, children’s writer and illustrator – Anna Judith Gertrud Helene Kerr joined Mog in 2019.

With thanks to http://www.onthisday.com for filling in the gaps.