Famous people and celebrities who died in February 2009

This page is dedicated to commemorating the celebrities and famous people who passed away in February 2009. 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

• Feb. 3 Sheng-yen

  Chinese monk and scholar, founded the dharma drum mountain (b. 1930)

• Feb. 4 Lux Interior

  Legendary punk rock vocalist and founding member of the influential band The Cramps, known for his wild stage performances and unique musical style.

• Feb. 6 James Whitmore

  Acclaimed American actor renowned for his stage and film performances, including Tony Award-winning portrayals of historical figures like Will Rogers. He starred in significant films such as 'Black Like Me' and 'Give 'Em Hell, Harry'.

• Feb. 6 Philip Carey

  Decorated American actor and Marine veteran who served in World War II aboard the USS Franklin and later in the Korean War, with a notable career in stage, film, and television.

• Feb. 7 Brian Naylor

  Born 1931, australian television presenter

• Feb. 8 Marian Cozma

  Romanian handball player (born 1982).

• Feb. 9 Orlando López (Cachaíto)

  Cuban bassist and composer, member of the legendary Buena Vista Social Club, known for his significant contribution to Cuban music.

• Feb. 10 Jeremy Lusk

  American freestyle motocross racing driver (born 1984).

• Feb. 11 Estelle Bennett

  Member of the legendary girl group The Ronettes, known for their groundbreaking music in the 1960s pop and rock era.

• Feb. 11 Willem Johan Kolff

  Dutch-american physician and academic (b. 1911)

• Feb. 12 Gerry Niewood

  American saxophonist (b. 1943)

• Feb. 12 Beverly Eckert

  American co-chair of 9/11 family steering committee (born 1951).

• Feb. 12 Coleman Mellett

  American musician (born 1974)

• Feb. 12 Alison Des Forges

  American historian and activist (b. 1942)

• Feb. 12 Mat Mathews

  Dutch accordion player (b. 1924)

• Feb. 13 Edward Upward

  British modernist writer associated with the left-wing literary movement and a close friend of Christopher Isherwood. He was known for his politically engaged fiction and his commitment to socialist ideals.

• Feb. 14 Louie Bellson

  Renowned American jazz drummer, composer, and bandleader who significantly influenced the big band and jazz drumming scene during the mid-20th century.

• Feb. 14 Sir Bernard Ashley

  Welsh businessman (born in 1926)

• Feb. 15 Dr Diether H Haenicke

  University president (born 1935).

• Feb. 16 Stephen Kim Sou-hwan

  South korean cardinal (b. 1921)

• Feb. 17 Conchita Cintrón

  Chilean bullfighter and journalist (b. 1922)

• Feb. 20 Larry H. Miller

  American businessman and philanthropist (b. 1944)

• Feb. 25 Philip José Farmer

  Philip José Farmer was an influential science fiction author renowned for his innovative Riverworld series. He was known for his imaginative storytelling and unique approach to speculative fiction.

• Feb. 26 Wendy Richard

  Popular English actress best known for her roles in 'EastEnders' and 'Are You Being Served?', a beloved television personality.

• Feb. 26 Johnny Kerr

  Johnny 'Red' Kerr was a prominent NBA player and coach, notably the first head coach of the Chicago Bulls. He was awarded NBA Coach of the Year in 1966-67 and remained with the franchise for over 40 years in various roles.

• Feb. 26 Norm Van Lier

  Professional basketball player who played for the Chicago Bulls and Cincinnati Royals, known for his defensive skills and later became a respected sportscaster.

• Feb. 28 Paul Harvey

  Legendary American radio broadcaster known for his distinctive voice and conservative commentary, who became a national icon in news and opinion radio.