The passing of an individual, regardless of age, carries a profound weight. The departure of someone who has enriched our world or built a lasting legacy brings about a deep sense of loss. In July 2024, the world mourned the loss of several remarkable figures from entertainment, sports, and beyond. These individuals left an indelible mark, and their stories deserve to be remembered.
Each departure serves as a moment of reflection on their lives and the legacies they leave behind. Here are ten unique people that the world said goodbye to in July.
10. Shannen Doherty
Shannen Doherty, best known for her roles in Beverly Hills, 90210 and Charmed, began her acting career at a young age. At 10, she debuted on TV in Father Murphy and later gained recognition in Little House on the Prairie.
Her career blossomed with dynamic performances in teen dramas and beyond. In March 2015, Doherty faced a diagnosis of breast cancer, undergoing treatment and entering remission in 2017. Sadly, the cancer returned in 2020 and spread to her brain by June 2023.
Despite her health challenges, Doherty remained determined to live life to the fullest, advocating for breast cancer awareness and animal rights. She passed away on July 13, 2024, at 53, after a courageous battle with cancer.[1]
9. Jacoby Jones
Jacoby Jones, a New Orleans native, excelled both on and off the football field. Known for the “Mile High Miracle,” he led the Baltimore Ravens to Super Bowl glory in 2013. Also successful in basketball and track, Jones initially pursued a track scholarship at Southeastern Louisiana University.
In 2003, he transferred to Lane College and was drafted by the Houston Texans in 2007. His pivotal role in Super Bowl XLVII saw him set two NFL records. Jones retired in 2017 after a nine-year career.
Jones transitioned to coaching at various levels, including his alma mater and professional indoor football. He was also a motivational speaker and community advocate. Sadly, Jones passed away in his sleep on July 14, 2024, shortly after his 40th birthday, with no cause of death given.[2]
8. Joe Bonsall
Joe Bonsall, a tenor singer with a musical journey spanning over 50 years, harbored a love for music since childhood. He began singing at four and embraced Southern Gospel harmony in his teens.
Bonsall joined The Oak Ridge Boys in 1973, bringing infectious energy and a distinctive deep voice. The group sold over 41 million records, earning numerous awards, including five Grammys. They were inducted into the Grand Ole Opry in 2011 and the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2015.
An accomplished author, Bonsall penned 11 books. In January 2024, he announced his retirement from touring due to a neuromuscular disorder. Bonsall passed away on July 9, 2024, at 76, due to complications from ALS.[3]
7. Ruth Westheimer
Ruth Westheimer, known as Dr. Ruth, was a sex therapist, media star, and best-selling author, celebrated for her frank discussions on taboo subjects. Her optimistic outlook emerged from a childhood marked by loss and struggle.
Born in 1928, Westheimer escaped Nazi Germany through the Kindertransport in 1939. She later emigrated to Palestine and fought for Israeli independence, sustaining severe injuries in 1948. She moved to the United States, earned a Ph.D., and became a licensed sex therapist.
In 1980, her radio show, “Sexually Speaking,” became an overnight sensation, making her a cultural icon. Westheimer received numerous awards for her contributions and was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 2019. She died on July 12, 2024, at 96, surrounded by family.[4]
6. Bob Newhart
Bob Newhart, known for his deadpan comedy, initially studied business management and worked as an accountant. He gained attention through humorous phone call recordings with a friend, leading to a record deal with Warner Bros.
His debut album, The Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart, released in 1960, was a major success. He starred in two classic sitcoms, The Bob Newhart Show and Newhart, and appeared in numerous films and TV series.
Newhart won an Emmy for his portrayal of Professor Proton on The Big Bang Theory in 2013. He was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame in 1993 and received the Kennedy Center’s Mark Twain Prize for American Humor in 2002. Newhart died on July 18, 2024, at 94, after a series of short illnesses.[5]
5. Joe Engle
Joe Engle pursued his dream of flying from a young age. After studying aeronautical engineering, he became a test pilot for the U.S. Air Force and trained under Chuck Yeager.
As an X-15 pilot, he exceeded the altitude required for astronaut rating, becoming the youngest pilot to qualify. Selected as a NASA astronaut in 1966, he piloted the space shuttle Columbia and commanded the Shuttle Discovery.
Engle flew over 185 types of aircraft, logging over 14,700 flight hours. He retired from NASA in 1986 and continued as a consultant for aerospace organizations. Engle passed away on July 10, 2024, at 91.[6]
4. Richard Simmons
Richard Simmons, an eccentric fitness guru, transformed his own unhealthy physical condition into a mission to help others. He faced weight issues as a child and later learned to control his weight through diet and exercise.
Simmons opened his own gym in Beverly Hills in 1974, creating a welcoming space for people of all sizes. He built a fitness empire through videos, classes, books, and TV appearances, known for his positivity and inclusivity.
After closing his gym in 2016, Simmons withdrew from public life, leading to media speculation about his well-being. He was found dead in his bathroom on July 13, 2024, a day after his 76th birthday, with his death under investigation.[7]
3. Jon Landau
Jon Landau, born into a film-producing family, developed a passion for the entertainment industry. After graduating from film school, he rose through the ranks, producing films like Honey, I Shrunk the Kids and Dick Tracy.
He became executive vice president of 20th Century Fox in 1989, overseeing hits like Home Alone and True Lies. Landau partnered with James Cameron, producing blockbusters such as Titanic and Avatar.
Landau passed away on July 5, 2024, after battling cancer for 16 months.[8]
2. Khyree Jackson
Khyree Jackson, a promising NFL draftee, was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft. His path to the NFL was filled with challenges and changes, including stops at community colleges and the University of Alabama.
Jackson’s journey included playing wide receiver and defensive back before transferring to Oregon. Tragically, before he could begin his NFL career, Jackson and two of his high school teammates were killed in a car crash on July 6, 2024.[9]
1. Shelley Duvall
Shelley Duvall, a versatile actress, never initially aspired to acting. She initially wanted to become a scientist, studying diet and nutrition. Her career shift began with a meeting with filmmaker Robert Altman, leading to her role in Brewster McCloud.
Duvall gained recognition for her performances in Altman’s films, including Nashville and 3 Women, for which she won a Cannes Best Actress Award. She delivered a memorable performance in The Shining and starred in Popeye.
Duvall later focused on children’s television, hosting and producing shows like Faerie Tale Theater. She retired from Hollywood in 2002, making a final appearance in the indie film The Forest Hills. Duvall died on July 11, 2024, at 75, due to complications from diabetes.[10]
In remembering these ten unique individuals, we honor their legacies and contributions to the world. Their impact will continue to inspire and resonate for years to come.
Share your thoughts and memories of these remarkable people in the comments below!
