Departed During 2025

[tango15]

Ronald David Scott (20 October 1917 – 17 April 2025) was an Argentine-born British soldier, and as a naval aviator he flew for the Royal Navy’s Fleet Air Arm during World War II.
...

A little more about him here:

Buenos Aires Times: Ronnie Scott, beloved World War II veteran, dies aged 107

A slight aside, I know, but it's nice to see there's an English-language newspaper available again in Argentina. The Buenos Aires Herald died in 2017, but in its day, it was a useful source of independent news, which the Spanish-language press was not. The BBC World Service was on HF and erratic, so they kept changing the frequencies, but it didn't help much. Nice to know that he received such a deserved and glowing obituary.

[FD2]

Isn't it remarkable that he still spoke with a distinctive Scottish accent? Learnt English from his father perhaps. Tucking into the Walker's shortbread too!

[PHXPhlyer]

Joe Don Baker, Rugged Star of ‘Walking Tall,’ Dies at 89
The Texan also was memorable in 'Junior Bonner' and 'Charley Varrick' and as two different characters — one good guy, one bad — in Bond films.

https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movie ... 236217866/

Joe Don Baker, the broad-shouldered Texas tough guy who portrayed characters on both sides of the law, most notably Sheriff Buford Pusser in the unexpected box-office hit Walking Tall, died May 7, his family announced. He was 89.

Baker first attracted mainstream attention in 1972 when he starred as the younger, business-minded brother of an aging Arizona rodeo rider (Steve McQueen) in Sam Peckinpah’s Junior Bonner (1972), then portrayed a sadistic mob hitman named Molly in Don Siegel’s Charley Varrick (1973), starring Walter Matthau.

In James Bond films, the 6-foot-3 Baker played a villain, the megalomaniacal arms dealer Brad Whitaker, in The Living Daylights (1987), starring Timothy Dalton as 007, then returned as a good guy, CIA agent Jack Wade, opposite Pierce Brosnan in the 1995 and ’97 movies GoldenEye and Tomorrow Never Dies, respectively.

As former professional wrestler Pusser — based on a real-life sheriff who cleaned up crime in his Tennessee town — Baker survives a series of beatings; represents himself in court and wins; gets elected sheriff; sees his wife murdered; and wields clubs carved from oak trees to beat up vicious gamblers and moonshiners in Walking Tall (1973).

“In those days in the early ’70s, I think a lot of people wanted to take a stick to Nixon and all those Watergate guys,” Baker said in an interview from the mid-1990s. His movie “touched a vigilante nerve in everybody who would like to do in the bad guys but don’t have the power and would get in trouble if [they] did. But Buford was able to pull it off.”

An independent release from Bing Crosby Productions, Walking Tall was distributed by Cinerama Releasing Corp. and became a huge financial success, grossing an estimated $40 million ($622 million today) on a budget of about $500,000 ($3.6 million today).

Walking Tall director Phil Karlson, in a 1974 interview with The New York Times, said his ultra-violent movie did so well because it fulfilled “a deep hunger to have a man in a movie who is big, powerful and one people can look up to.”

The real Pusser agreed to star in a Walking Tall sequel but hours later was killed in a traffic accident in August 1974. Bo Svenson then took the lead in big-screen follow-ups released in 1975 and ’77 (and later on an NBC show), while Baker and Karlson reteamed for another vigilante drama set in Tennessee, Framed (1975).

The actor then portrayed a violent cop once again in Mitchell, also released in 1975.

Baker was born on Feb. 12, 1936, in Groesbeck, Texas. His mother, Edna, died when he was 12, and he was raised by an aunt. A linebacker at Groesbeck High School, his hero was Doak Walker, who played halfback at Southern Methodist University and won the Heisman Trophy in 1948.

Baker had his first experience as an actor as a senior at North Texas State College in Denton. After graduating with a business degree in 1958 and serving for two years in the U.S. Army, he moved to New York and was accepted into The Actors Studio.

In 1963 and ’64, Baker appeared on Broadway in Actors Studio productions of Marathon ’33 opposite Julie Harris and Blues for Mister Charlie, written by James Baldwin and directed by Burgess Meredith.

He came to Los Angeles and made it to the screen, finding work on Honey West, Bonanza and Gunsmoke and in the films Cool Hand Luke (1967) and Guns of the Magnificent Seven (1969).

Baker and Tom Skerritt played sons of Karl Malden in Blake Edwards‘ Wild Rovers (1971) before he united with Robert Duvall and Karen Black to bust up a crime syndicate in The Outfit (1973).

In 1985, Baker starred as crack CIA man Darius Jedburgh in the six-hour BBC miniseries Edge of Darkness, directed by Martin Campbell. “I could have done that all my life, I think, or at least for years and been happy,” he said.

He was nominated for a BAFTA award but lost out in the best actor race to his co-star, Englishman Ben Peck. A decade later, Campbell turned to Baker again for GoldenEye.

The actor also starred as a Southern sheriff turned NYPD detective on the 1978-79 NBC series Eischied, played a crooked cop in Fletch (1985) and stepped in for Carroll O’Connor, then sidelined after heart surgery, as the chief of police on NBC’s In the Heat of the Night in 1989.

Baker wielded another big stick as a Babe Ruth-like swatter in The Natural (1984) and appeared in such other films as Leonard Part 6 (1987), Cape Fear (1991), Reality Bites (1994), The Grass Harp (1995), Mars Attacks! (1996), Joe Dirt (2001), The Dukes of Hazzard (2005) and Mud (2012).

He was married to Maria Dolores Rivero-Torres from 1969 until their 1980 divorce and is survived by relatives in Groesbeck. A funeral service to honor his life will be held Tuesday in Mission Hills, California.

PP

[FD2]

George Wendt

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/a ... erson.html

Starred in every episode of 'Cheers'. 'Cheers' and spin off 'Frasier' some of the funniest programmes to come out of America.

[PHXPhlyer]

Rick Derringer, who had hit with 'Hang On Sloopy' and produced 'Weird Al,' dies at 77
Derringer's decades in the music industry spanned teen stardom, session work for bands like Steely Dan, supplying the guitar solo on Bonnie Tyler's "Total Eclipse of the Heart" and producing for Cyndi Lauper.

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/obituaries ... rcna209355

Guitarist and singer Rick Derringer, who shot to fame at 17 when his band The McCoys recorded "Hang On Sloopy," had a hit with "Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo" and earned a Grammy Award for producing "Weird Al " Yankovic's debut album, has died. He was 77.

Derringer died Monday in Ormond Beach, Florida, according to a Facebook announcement from his caregiver, Tony Wilson. No cause of death was announced.

Derringer's decades in the music industry spanned teen stardom, session work for bands like Steely Dan, supplying the guitar solo on Bonnie Tyler's "Total Eclipse of the Heart" and producing for Cyndi Lauper.

"Derringer's legacy extends beyond his music, entertaining fans with his signature energy and talent. His passing leaves a void in the music world, and he will be deeply missed by fans, colleagues, and loved ones," Wilson wrote.

As a teen, he formed the McCoys with his brother, Randy, and found fame singing "Hang On Sloopy," a No. 26 hit about lovers from different socioeconomic circumstances. Derringer enjoyed his first solo hit with "Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo," which was used in the fourth season of "Stranger Things."

His best-charting album was "All American Boy" in 1973, which included the instrumentals "Joy Ride" and "Time Warp." His sole Grammy was for Yankovic's "Eat It," which had the Michael Jackson parodies "Eat It" and "Who's Fat."

Throughout the 1970s and '80s, Derringer worked extensively as a session musician, playing on albums by Steely Dan — including "Countdown to Ecstasy," "Katy Lied" and "Gaucho" — Todd Rundgren, Kiss and Barbra Streisand. He played on Air Supply's "Making Love Out of Nothing at All."

In the mid-1980s he began working with Lauper, touring in her band and playing on three of her albums, including the hit "True Colors." He toured with Ringo Starr and The All-Starr Band.

In 1985, he produced the World Wrestling Federation's "The Wrestling Album," which consisted mostly of pro wrestlers' theme songs, many of which he co-wrote, including what would become Hulk Hogan's theme song "Real American."

PP

[PHXPhlyer]

Loretta Swit, the Emmy-winning 'M*A*S*H' actress, dies at 87
Swit's representative said in a statement her death was likely from natural causes.

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/obituaries ... rcna210039

Loretta Swit, the Emmy-winning actress most well-known for her leading role on "M*A*S*H," has died, her representatives said Friday.

She was 87.

Swit died at her home in New York City just after noon Friday, her team said in a statement, citing a police report. It is suspected she died of natural causes, but a report from the coroner's office is still pending.

Swit portrayed the quick-witted Maj. Margaret Houlihan on one of TV's most honored series, and collected a number of awards for her "M*A*S*H" role, including two Emmys. She was nominated for 10 Emmys and four Golden Globes.

Her sensuous, sensitive, comedic character was also known as "Hot Lips."

The TV series, which aired from September 1972 to February 1983, followed the staff of an Army hospital during the Korean War. Swit starred in all seasons of "M*A*S*H."

PP

[Karearea]

^ sorry to learn that. She was rather lovely, an excellent actress.

[Woody]

Hands up all those who had a crush on her

[tango15]

M*A*S*H was one of the funniest and cleverest American series I have ever watched, and I particularly enjoyed her performances, so my hand is held high. RIP.

[Hydromet]

Hand up here.

[bob2s]

And here.

[Ex-Ascot]

M*A*S*H was one of the funniest and cleverest American series I have ever watched, and I particularly enjoyed her performances, so my hand is held high. RIP.

Lasted about three times longer than the actual war. Brilliant series. We have every single episode and have watched all three times. Plus on TV. Years ago in DC early evening you could watch three episodes consecutively by switching channels,

[tango15]

M*A*S*H was one of the funniest and cleverest American series I have ever watched, and I particularly enjoyed her performances, so my hand is held high. RIP.

Lasted about three times longer than the actual war. Brilliant series. We have every single episode and have watched all three times. Plus on TV. Years ago in DC early evening you could watch three episodes consecutively by switching channels,

It's on a Freeview Channel (64 I think) most weeknights. I love to dip in now and again, for some light entertainment.

[Pinky the pilot]

Didn't have a crush on her but still thought she was lovely!

87; A good Innings.

[PHXPhlyer]

George Wendt

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/a ... erson.html

Starred in every episode of 'Cheers'. 'Cheers' and spin off 'Frasier' some of the funniest programmes to come out of America.

Cause of death revealed for ‘Cheers’ star George Wendt

https://www.azfamily.com/2025/06/05/cau ... rge-wendt/

(Gray News) - George Wendt’s cause of death has been revealed after the actor suddenly died last month.

According to multiple reports, the actor and comedian known for playing Norm on the beloved sitcom “Cheers” died from cardiac arrest.

Outlets have cited the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health listing Wendt’s immediate cause of death as congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease and hypertension as underlying causes.

His family said Wendt died peacefully in his sleep on May 20 at the age of 76, according to a statement from his publicist.

“George was a doting family man, a well-loved friend and confidant to all of those lucky enough to have known him, ” the statement said. “He will be missed forever. The family has requested privacy during this time.”

Wendt began as a comedian at Chicago’s The Second City, according to Variety. He spent six years with the renowned improv troupe before moving to television.

His most known role was that of the lovable barfly, Norm, on “Cheers.” His portrayal of the beer-loving accountant earned him six consecutive Emmy nominations for outstanding supporting actor.

According to the Hollywood Reporter, he was in every episode of the show during its 11-year run from 1982 to 1993. His regular greeting of “Afternoon, everybody” became a staple beloved by fan

PP

[CharlieOneSix]

Best-selling author Frederick Forsyth, known for thriller novels including The Day Of The Jackal, has died at the age of 86, his agent has said.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/czj4ljxv17xo

....and the wonderful "The Shepherd"....

[PHXPhlyer]

Sly Stone, funk pioneer and frontman of Sly and the Family Stone, dies at 82
His family said Stone died after a lengthy battle with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other underlying health issues.

https://www.nbcnews.com/pop-culture/pop ... rcna211918

Sly and the Family Stone frontman Sly Stone died, his family said in a statement Monday. He was 82.

His family said Stone, whose real name is Sylvester Stewart, died after a lengthy battle with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other underlying health issues.

"Sly passed away peacefully, surrounded by his three children, his closest friend and his extended family," the statement read. "While we mourn his absence, we take solace in knowing that his extraordinary musical legacy will continue to resonate and inspire for generations to come."


They said Stone had recently completed a "screenplay for his life story."

"Sly was a monumental figure, a groundbreaking innovator, and a true pioneer who redefined the landscape of pop, funk, and rock music. His iconic songs have left an indelible mark on the world, and his influence remains undeniable," his family said. "We extend our deepest gratitude for the outpouring of love and prayers during this difficult time. We wish peace and harmony to all who were touched by Sly’s life and his iconic music."

PP

[tango15]

Best-selling author Frederick Forsyth, known for thriller novels including The Day Of The Jackal, has died at the age of 86, his agent has said.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/czj4ljxv17xo

....and the wonderful "The Shepherd"....

His excellent writing aside, he also gave a very credible performance on the UK version of 'Who Wants to be a Millionaire,' one of the very few so-called celebrities to do so. Paired with the airhead Gloria Hunniford, he had won £250,000 and thought he knew the answer to the £500,000 question, but didn't want to take a chance on losing all the money, with his nominated charity receiving nothing. As it turned out, his answer was correct. RIP Freddie

[PHXPhlyer]

Brian Wilson, influential pop pioneer and Beach Boys founding member, dies at 82
Wilson was revered by generations of artists for his arresting melodies and romantic lyrics. Privately, he struggled with mental health issues and drug abuse.

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/obituaries ... rcna212400

Brian Wilson, the musical visionary who captured the optimism of early 1960s youth culture as leader of the Beach Boys and crafted some of the most stylistically adventurous pop music of the era with the seminal album "Pet Sounds," has died, his family confirmed Wednesday.

He was 82. His family did not immediately specify a cause of death.

"We are heartbroken to announce that our beloved father Brian Wilson has passed away," Wilson's family said in a post on Instagram. "We are at a loss for words right now. Please respect our privacy at this time as our family is grieving. We realize that we are sharing our grief with the world."

The artist's legal representatives said last year that Wilson was suffering from a "major neurocognitive disorder (such as dementia)" and suggested he be placed in a conservatorship.

Wilson is widely considered one of the most gifted singers, songwriters, and producers in the history of American pop music. The Beach Boys conquered the recording industry with hits like "I Get Around" and "Good Vibrations," embodying the popular image of Southern California as paradise on Earth.

In the middle of the '60s, inspired by the ambition of the Beatles and guided by his own eccentric psychedelic visions, Wilson produced the landmark concept album "Pet Sounds," a fusion of pop, jazz and avant-garde music that helped cement his reputation.

Wilson's life was often tumultuous. He struggled with mental health issues and substance abuse, and he channelled his inner turmoil into melancholy lyrics and introspective soundscapes.

He spent years under the yoke of the celebrity psychologist Dr. Eugene Landy, who attempted to control nearly every aspect of the singer’s life. (Landy was eventually barred from any contact with Wilson and died in 2006.)

PP

My favorite album:

[Opsboi]

Died at 82

One of the true musical geniuses of his era - did well to live as long as he did

Nos da, Mr Harmony