Famous people and celebrities who died in May 1996

This page is dedicated to commemorating the celebrities and famous people who passed away in May 1996. 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

• May 3 Ray Stevens
• May 5 Ai Qing

  Renowned Chinese poet and influential literary figure who played a significant role in modern Chinese poetry.

• May 8 Luis Miguel

  Luis Miguel, often referred to as 'El Sol de México', is one of the most successful and influential Latin American singers. Renowned for his powerful vocals and mastery over a variety of musical genres, including pop, bolero, mariachi, and romantic ballads, Luis Miguel has captivated audiences and sold over 100 million records worldwide. [bio]

• May 8 Celedonio Romero

  Renowned Spanish classical guitarist who co-founded the famous Romeros Guitar Quartet, significantly contributing to classical guitar...

• May 8 Garth Williams

  Renowned American illustrator famous for his iconic illustrations in children's books like 'Charlotte's Web', 'Little House on the Prairie',...

• May 8 Beryl Burton

  Legendary British female cyclist who dominated women's cycling in the 1960s and 1970s, setting numerous world records and winning multiple...

• May 8 Luis Miguel Dominguín

  Luis Miguel Dominguín was a famous Spanish bullfighter who was a prominent figure in the mid-20th century bullfighting scene, known for his...

• May 8 Larry Levis

  American poet, author, and critic (b. 1946).

• May 11 Nnamdi Azikiwe

  Prominent Nigerian nationalist leader who served as the country's first president and governor-general, playing a crucial role in Nigeria's...

• May 15 Charles B. Fulton

  American lawyer and judge (b. 1910).

• May 16 Jeremy Michael Boorda

  American admiral (b. 1939).

• May 17 Willis Conover

  Legendary jazz broadcaster who hosted 'Music USA' on Voice of America, significantly influencing global jazz appreciation during the Cold...

• May 17 Johnny Watson (Guitar)
• May 20 Jon Pertwee

  Jon Pertwee was an English actor, comedian, and cabaret performer, best known for his portrayal of the Third Doctor in the long-running BBC science fiction television series Doctor Who, and as the title character in the children's series Worzel Gummidge. [bio]

• May 20 Janaki Ramachandran

  Janaki Ramachandran was a notable Indian physicist who made significant contributions to solid-state physics and materials science research.

• May 21 Lash LaRue

  Famous American Western film actor known for his unique bullwhip technique in movies during the golden age of Hollywood.

• May 23 Kronid Lyubarsky

  Prominent Russian dissident, human rights activist, and journalist who was a significant voice against Soviet oppression during the Cold War...

• May 24 Joseph Mitchell

  Renowned American journalist and writer for The New Yorker, famous for his long-form narrative journalism and profound portraits of New York...

• May 24 Jacob Druckman
• May 25 John Morrison (scientist)

  John Morrison was a prominent physicist who made significant contributions to quantum mechanics and played a crucial role in the Manhattan...

• May 25 Bradley Nowell
• May 26 Haika Grossman
• May 29 Tamara Toumanova

  Renowned Russian-American ballerina and actress who was a prominent figure in the world of classical dance during the mid-20th century.

• May 30 John Cameron

  English conductor and composer known for his contributions to classical music and orchestral performances.

• May 30 Léon-Étienne Duval

  French cardinal (b. 1903).

• May 31 Timothy Leary

  Controversial Harvard psychologist who became a counterculture icon, advocating for psychedelic drug research and personal consciousness...