Famous people and celebrities who died in October 1985
This page is dedicated to commemorating the celebrities and famous people who passed away in October 1985. This month marked the loss of influential and beloved figures whose contributions spanned various fields and touched many lives. Explore our detailed list to remember and celebrate their enduring legacies and the remarkable impact they had on the world
- Oct. 1 E. B. White
Renowned American writer known for his work at The New Yorker.
- Oct. 2 Rock Hudson
Rock Hudson was a legendary Hollywood actor and sex symbol of the 1950s and 1960s, known for romantic comedies and dramatic roles. He was nominated for an Academy Award for 'Giant' and won four Golden Globe awards. Later, he became known as one of the first celebrities to die from AIDS, which raised significant public awareness about the disease.
- Oct. 2 George Savalas
American character actor best known for his supporting roles in television and film, and brother of famous actor Telly Savalas. He appeared in numerous TV shows during the 1960s and 1970s, often playing tough or authoritative characters.
- Oct. 2 Sidney Clute
Actor lou grant, cagney, and lacey dies at the age of 69.
- Oct. 6 Nelson Riddle
Nelson Riddle was a legendary American arranger, composer, and conductor who significantly shaped the sound of mid-20th century popular music. He is renowned for his groundbreaking collaborations with Frank Sinatra and Rosemary Clooney, helping to define the orchestral jazz and pop arrangements of the era.
- Oct. 7 Cemal Reşit Rey
Renowned Turkish pianist, composer, and conductor who played a significant role in developing modern Turkish classical music.
- Oct. 8 Malcolm Ross
Scottish indie musician known for his influential roles in bands Josef K and Orange Juice during the post-punk and new wave era of the 1980s.
- Oct. 8 Gordon Welchman
Gordon Welchman was a brilliant English-American mathematician who played a crucial role in breaking German Enigma codes during World War II at Bletchley Park.
- Oct. 8 Ricardo Bacchelli
Italian writer. he was one of the founding members of thebagutta literature prize in 1927.
- Oct. 8 Leon Klinghoffer
Hijackers of achille lauro, threw he off boat
- Oct. 9 Emílio Garrastazu Médici
Brazilian general and politician, 28th president of brazil (b. 1905)
- Oct. 10 Yul Brynner
Iconic Hollywood actor known for his distinctive bald head and powerful performances, particularly in 'The King and I'. He was a versatile performer with a fascinating multicultural background spanning Russia, China, and the United States.
- Oct. 10 Orson Welles
Legendary American filmmaker, actor, and radio innovator who revolutionized cinema with 'Citizen Kane' and famously caused nationwide panic with his 'War of the Worlds' radio broadcast.
- Oct. 11 Tex Williams
Tex Williams was a prominent American country and western swing singer-songwriter known for his distinctive vocal style and guitar skills during the mid-20th century.
- Oct. 12 Johnny Olson
American radio host and game show announcer (b. 1910)
- Oct. 14 Emil Gilels
Legendary Soviet classical pianist considered one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century, renowned for his exceptional technical precision and emotional depth.
- Oct. 15 Meret Oppenheim
Writer dies at 72
- Oct. 16 Claude Stroud
Actor (hobart–ted knight show. duke), dies aged 78
- Oct. 21 Dan White
Infamous San Francisco city employee who assassinated Mayor George Moscone and Supervisor Harvey Milk in 1978, sparking significant political and social upheaval in the city.
- Oct. 22 Viorica Ursuleac
Actress and soprano from ukraine-romania (d. 1985).
- Oct. 24 Maurice Roy
French-Canadian Roman Catholic Cardinal who served in Quebec and played a significant role in the Catholic Church during the mid-20th century.
- Oct. 25 Morton Downey
Singer (star of the family), passes away at the age of 83.
- Oct. 25 Elsa Moranet
Writer dies at 67
- Oct. 29 John Lodge
Prominent bass player and founding member of the legendary rock band The Moody Blues, known for his significant contributions to progressive rock music.
- Oct. 30 Kirby Grant Hoon Jr
Actor (sky king) from butte, montana, dies in an automobile accident at the age of 74.
- Oct. 31 Nikos Engonopoulos
Nikos Engonopoulos was a prominent Greek poet and surrealist painter who significantly contributed to modern Greek art and literature during the 20th century. He was a key figure in the Greek modernist movement, known for his unique artistic style and poetic expression.