Famous people and celebrities who died in December 2003

This page is dedicated to commemorating the celebrities and famous people who passed away in December 2003. 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

• Dec. 3 David Hemmings

  Renowned British actor, director, and photographer best known for his iconic role in Michelangelo Antonioni's 'Blow-Up' and his significant contributions to film and television.

• Dec. 6 Carlos Manuel Arana Osorio

  Guatemalan military officer and political leader who served as President of Guatemala from 1970 to 1974, known for his authoritarian rule during the Guatemalan Civil War.

• Dec. 6 Hans Hotter

  Renowned German opera singer and baritone, particularly famous for his interpretations of Wagner's works and considered one of the most significant classical vocalists of the 20th century.

• Dec. 6 Jerry Tuite

  American professional wrestler (born 1966).

• Dec. 7 Azie Taylor Morton

  American educator and politician who served as the 36th Treasurer of the United States, breaking barriers as an African American woman in a high-level government position.

• Dec. 8 Rubén González

  Legendary Cuban pianist known for his pivotal role in the Buena Vista Social Club and Estrellas de Areito, who significantly contributed to preserving and popularizing traditional Cuban music.

• Dec. 9 Paul Simon

  Prominent American politician who served in multiple legislative roles including the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate, known for his liberal democratic views and political career in Illinois.

• Dec. 9 Norm Sloan

  American basketball player and coach (b. 1926)

• Dec. 11 Ahmadou Kourouma

  Renowned Ivorian novelist who masterfully explored African postcolonial experiences through powerful literary works, significantly contributing to African literature.

• Dec. 12 Heydar Aliyev

  Prominent Azerbaijani political leader who served as the third President of Azerbaijan from 1993 to 2003, playing a crucial role in the country's post-Soviet development and national stability.

• Dec. 12 Joseph Anthony Ferrario

  American catholic prelate (born in 1926)

• Dec. 13 William V Roth

  Jr., american politician (born 1921)

• Dec. 14 Jeanne Crain

  Jeanne Crain was a prominent Hollywood actress of the 1940s and 1950s, known for her wholesome image and Oscar-nominated performance in 'Pinky'. She was discovered by 20th Century Fox and starred in notable films like 'State Fair'.

• Dec. 14 Blas Ople

  Prominent Filipino journalist and politician who served as the 21st President of the Senate of the Philippines. A significant figure in Philippine political history who died in 2003.

• Dec. 14 Frank Sheeran

  American labor union official (born in 1920).

• Dec. 15 Keith Magnuson

  Canadian professional ice hockey player and coach who played for the Chicago Blackhawks, died in a car accident in 2003.

• Dec. 16 Gary Stewart

  American singer-songwriter (d. 2003)

• Dec. 17 Otto Graham

  Legendary NFL quarterback who played for the Cleveland Browns, considered one of the most successful quarterbacks of his era and a Pro Football Hall of Fame member.

• Dec. 19 Hope Lange

  Accomplished American actress known for her stage and television work, nominated for an Oscar for her role in Peyton Place and winning two Emmy Awards in the late 1960s.

• Dec. 19 Les Tremayne

  American character actor known for his roles in science fiction films like 'The Angry Red Planet' and radio adaptations of 'War of the Worlds'.

• Dec. 19 Peter Carter-Ruck

  English lawyer, founded carter-ruck (b. 1914)

• Dec. 21 Prince Alfonso of Hohenlohe-Langenburg

  Spanish businessman (born in 1924)

• Dec. 27 Alan Bates

  Renowned British actor who was a key figure in the British New Wave cinema and theatre. He starred in iconic films like 'Women in Love' and 'Zorba the Greek', and was celebrated for his powerful stage performances.

• Dec. 27 Vestal Goodman

  American gospel singer (born 1929)

• Dec. 28 Benjamin Thurman Hacker

  American admiral who served in the United States Navy during the mid-20th century, contributing to naval operations and leadership.

• Dec. 29 Bob Monkhouse

  Renowned British comedian famous for his witty one-liners, TV hosting, and comedy performances. He was a prominent figure in British entertainment, awarded an OBE in 1993 and remembered for his sharp humor and versatility.

• Dec. 30 Anita Mui

  Iconic Hong Kong singer and actress who was a major cultural figure in Asian entertainment, known for her powerful performances and nicknamed the 'Madonna of Asia'.

• Dec. 30 John Gregory Dunne

  American novelist, screenwriter, and critic (d. 2003)