Famous people and celebrities who died in August 2007

This page is dedicated to commemorating the celebrities and famous people who passed away in August 2007. 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

Aug. 2 Chauncey Bailey
Courageous investigative journalist murdered in 2007, known for his fearless reporting on social justice issues and community challenges.
Aug. 3 John Gardner
Renowned American novelist famous for postmodern literary works like 'Grendel' and 'October Light'. He was a significant figure in contemporary American literature.
Aug. 4 Raul Hilberg
Pioneering Holocaust scholar whose seminal work 'The Destruction of the European Jews' is considered the most comprehensive analysis of the Nazi genocide.
Aug. 5 Jean-Marie Lustiger
A prominent French Catholic Cardinal who converted from Judaism at age 13, serving as Archbishop of Paris from 1981 to 2005. He was a significant figure in Jewish-Christian dialogue and reconciliation.
Aug. 7 Angus Tait
Co-founder of Tait Communications and a successful businessman.
Aug. 10 Jean Rédélé
French automobile engineer and entrepreneur who founded Alpine, a renowned sports car manufacturer. He was also a successful race driver who transformed his passion for motorsports into an iconic automotive brand.
Aug. 10 Tony Wilson
Influential English journalist, record label owner, and music impresario who co-founded Factory Records and played a crucial role in Manchester's music scene, particularly promoting post-punk and alternative rock.
Aug. 10 Henry Cabot Lodge Bohler
American lieutenant and pilot (b. 1925)
Aug. 12 Merv Griffin
Iconic American television host, game show creator, and entertainment mogul who revolutionized TV programming and became a successful businessman. He created popular game shows like 'Jeopardy!' and 'Wheel of Fortune', transforming the entertainment landscape.
Aug. 12 Mike Wieringo
Renowned American comic book illustrator and author, known for his work on Spider-Man, Fantastic Four, and other popular comics before his untimely death in 2007.
Aug. 13 Phil Rizzuto
Hall of Fame shortstop for the New York Yankees who was later a beloved Yankees broadcaster. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1994 and was known for his exceptional defensive skills.
Aug. 13 Brooke Astor
Prominent New York socialite and philanthropist who was known for her extensive charitable work and significant contributions to cultural institutions in New York City. She was a major donor to libraries, museums, and social services, and was considered a leading figure in New York's high society during the 20th century.
Aug. 15 Richard Bradshaw
Prominent English conductor and musical director known for his significant contributions to classical music and opera performances.
Aug. 15 Sam Pollock
Legendary Canadian ice hockey executive who played a pivotal role in building the Montreal Canadiens dynasty during the 1970s.
Aug. 16 Bahaedin Adab
Iranian engineer and politician (b. 1945)
Aug. 17 Bill Deedes
Bill Deedes was a prominent British Conservative politician, journalist, and editor of The Daily Telegraph, known for his significant contributions to journalism and public life.
Aug. 20 Leona Helmsley
Leona Helmsley was a notorious American real estate businesswoman known as the 'Queen of Mean' for her harsh management style and legal troubles. She and her husband Harry built a massive real estate empire in New York City during the 1970s and 1980s. Her infamous tax evasion trial in 1989 made her a symbol of wealthy excess and corporate greed.
Aug. 22 Grace Paley
Renowned American short story writer celebrated for her distinctive literary voice and social activism. Her works often explored themes of feminism, urban life, and political engagement.
Aug. 24 Aaron Russo
American film producer, director, and political activist known for documentaries and films like 'Trading Places'. He was also a notable advocate for libertarian political causes.
Aug. 25 Raymond Barre
Prominent French economist and politician who served as Prime Minister of France from 1976 to 1981, playing a significant role during Valéry Giscard d'Estaing's presidency.
Aug. 26 Gaston Thorn
Prominent Luxembourgish politician who served as the 20th Prime Minister of Luxembourg and later became an important European Union official. He played a significant role in Luxembourg's political landscape during the late 20th century.
Aug. 28 Hilly Kristal
Founder of CBGB, the legendary New York City punk rock club that launched careers of bands like Ramones and Talking Heads.
Aug. 28 Arthur Jones
Pioneering American businessman who founded Nautilus, Inc. and revolutionized the fitness equipment industry through innovative exercise machine designs.
Aug. 28 Miyoshi Umeki
Japanese-American actress and singer, notable for her Oscar-winning performance in the film 'Sayonara' and her role in the TV series 'The Courtship of Eddie's Father'.
Aug. 29 Pierre Messmer
French politician who served as Prime Minister under Georges Pompidou from July 1972 to May 1974. He was a prominent Gaullist and member of the Free French Forces during World War II, playing a significant role in the French Resistance.
Aug. 29 Richard Jewell
Richard Jewell was an American security guard who became famous for his role in discovering a bomb at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics before it detonated, initially hailed as a hero but later wrongly accused of the bombing.
Aug. 30 Michael Jackson
Renowned British-American journalist and radio host, awarded the MBE by Queen Elizabeth II and recognized for his influential talk radio show.
Aug. 30 Charles Vanik
Prominent American politician who served in the U.S. House of Representatives from Ohio, known for his significant contributions to foreign policy and congressional work.
Aug. 31 Gay Brewer
Professional American golfer who was a notable PGA Tour player, winning multiple tournaments including the Masters Tournament in 1967.