Famous People Who Died

Dame Ann Elizabeth Mary Leslie, DBE, a distinguished British journalist who made significant contributions to the field, passed away on June 27, 2023, at the age of 82. Born on January 28, 1941, Leslie's career in journalism began at the Daily Express in Manchester in 1962, before later joining the esteemed publication, the Daily Mail, in 1967.

Throughout her illustrious career, Leslie conducted interviews with renowned film stars, entertainers, and political figures, showcasing her versatility and talent as a journalist. She reported on numerous wars, civil conflicts, and political stories across approximately 70 countries, establishing herself as a respected and influential voice in the industry. Recognized for her remarkable influence and contributions, Leslie was honored at the Reuters/Press Gazette launch of the Newspaper Hall of Fame, where she was hailed as one of the most influential journalists of the last four decades. In David Randall's book, "The Great Reporters," she was profiled as "the most versatile reporter ever," solidifying her reputation as a formidable presence in British journalism. Leslie's expertise extended beyond her writing, as she frequently appeared as a panelist on current affairs programs such as BBC's Question Time, Any Questions?, and Dateline London, as well as on Sky News and international broadcasting organizations. Her insights and analysis added depth and perspective to important discussions. In 2007-2008, Leslie participated in an interview for the 'Oral History of the British Press' collection conducted by National Life Stories, which is now held by the British Library. Her contribution to this collection ensures that her experiences and insights will be preserved for future generations. Additionally, Leslie made an appearance in the 2012 documentary titled "The Diamond Queen," where she shared her perspectives on Queen Elizabeth II. In 1969, she married Michael Fletcher, and together they had a daughter, marking another significant aspect of her personal life. The passing of Dame Ann Leslie leaves a void in the world of journalism. Her exceptional career, wide-ranging expertise, and unyielding dedication to her craft have cemented her as one of Britain's most prominent and respected journalists. Her legacy will be remembered and her contributions to the field celebrated for years to come.

Patrick Henson Guzman, a celebrated Canadian-Filipino actor, rose to prominence during the 1990s, leaving a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. Born on October 5, 1967, Guzman's journey into acting began when he garnered attention for his appearance in a Swatch television commercial aired in the Philippines. This recognition opened doors for him, leading to his role as a host in the ABS-CBN game show Ready, Get Set, Go! Throughout the 1990s and into the early 2000s, Guzman made notable appearances in both television and film. He co-hosted the musical variety show VIP alongside Vilma Santos and starred in various films alongside renowned actress Sharon Cuneta, including Una Kang Naging Akin (1991), Ikaw (1993), and Kung Ako Na Lang Sana (2003). Additionally, Guzman showcased his talent in films such as Koronang Itim and Sisa. After a successful career in the Philippine entertainment industry, Guzman decided to retire and relocate to Canada, where he embarked on a new chapter and started his own family. While residing in Canada, he made a final film appearance in the 2019 Canadian Filipino-language movie titled BROmance The Movie, directed by Beverly Vergel. Patrick Henson Guzman's journey in the world of acting was marked by his notable contributions to both Philippine and Canadian cinema. His talent, versatility, and memorable performances will forever be cherished by fans and industry colleagues alike. Although he has left us, his legacy will continue to resonate through his work, inspiring future generations of actors and leaving an enduring impact on the world of film.

Thomas Richard Severo, an esteemed American science journalist, left an indelible mark on the field during his career. Born on November 22, 1932, Severo's notable contributions include his work as a writer for the prestigious New York Times from 1968 to 2006. Throughout his tenure at the New York Times, Severo's dedication and talent earned him recognition and accolades. In 1975, he was honored with a George Polk Award from Long Island University, acknowledging his exceptional journalism. Additionally, the Columbia School of Journalism awarded him the Meyer "Mike" Berger Award, further highlighting his outstanding contributions to the field. During the 1980s, Severo found himself at the center of a public dispute with A.M. Rosenthal, the Times' executive editor at the time. The disagreement stemmed from Severo's decision to publish a book based on his reporting for the Times with an external publishing company, rather than the Times' own publishing house, Times Books. Severo alleged that he faced retaliation from Rosenthal as a result. However, Rosenthal vehemently denied these claims, dismissing Severo's accusation as a fabrication and asserting that Severo had been treated fairly throughout their professional relationship. The book that emerged from this contentious situation, titled "Lisa H: The True Story of an Extraordinary and Courageous Woman," was ultimately published by Harper & Row in 1985. The dispute between Severo and Rosenthal continued for four years, finally concluding in September 1988 when an arbitrator ruled in favor of the New York Times. Tragically, Thomas Richard Severo passed away on June 12, 2023, at the age of 90, due to complications arising from Parkinson's disease. His contributions to science journalism and his unwavering dedication to his craft will be remembered and celebrated.

Maxwell Stuart Thompson, an accomplished English footballer, left a lasting impact on the sport during his career. Born on December 31, 1956, Thompson excelled as a central defender and showcased his skills over a decade-long tenure in the Football League. Thompson's journey began at a young age when he made his debut for Liverpool in May 1974, becoming the club's youngest-ever player at the time, aged 17 years and 128 days (although this record has since been broken). During his time at Liverpool, he made notable contributions, scoring eight goals in 137 league games. After three years, Thompson transferred to Blackpool, where he continued to shine on the field. Over the course of four years, he played 99 league games for the club, displaying his defensive prowess. Additionally, Thompson had loan spells with the Dallas Tornado and Seattle Sounders, expanding his football experience. The 1980s saw Thompson embark on a journey across various clubs worldwide. He represented AFC Bournemouth, Port Vale, Baltimore Blast (USA), Académica de Coimbra (Portugal), Northwich Victoria, Caernarfon Town, Fleetwood, Newport County, Kramfors (Sweden), and Southport, showcasing his versatility and dedication to the sport. Following the conclusion of his playing career, Thompson transitioned to the role of a physiotherapist and had the opportunity to work at Anfield, home of Liverpool Football Club. His expertise in sports medicine allowed him to contribute to the well-being and performance of players. Tragically, Maxwell Stuart Thompson passed away on June 27, 2023, leaving a void in the football community. His skills, achievements, and contributions as a player and physiotherapist will be remembered and celebrated by fans and colleagues alike, ensuring his legacy lives on in the world of football.

Peg Yorkin, a prominent American feminist activist and fundraiser, made significant contributions to advancing gender equality and empowering women. Born on April 16, 1927, Yorkin dedicated her life to advocating for women's rights and supporting various causes. Yorkin's activism focused on promoting feminist ideals and creating opportunities for women. She played a crucial role in fundraising efforts, leveraging her skills and influence to support organizations dedicated to women's empowerment. Her dedication and commitment to the feminist movement were instrumental in driving positive change. Tragically, Peg Yorkin passed away on June 25, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of advocacy and activism. Her efforts in championing women's rights and her invaluable contributions to the feminist movement will continue to inspire generations to come.