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...

• Feb. 6 Philip Carey

  Philip Carey was an American actor best known for his long-running role as Asa Buchanan on the soap opera 'One Life to Live,' a part he played from 1980 to 2008. He also appeared in numerous films and television series throughout his career, particularly Westerns during the 1950s and 1960s. [bio]

• Feb. 6 James Whitmore

  James Whitmore was an American film, theater, and television actor known for his versatile performances in a career spanning over five decades. He earned acclaim for his roles in both classic films and stage productions, including his one-man shows portraying significant historical figures. [bio]

• 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. 9 Eluana Englaro
• 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 Alison Des Forges

  American historian and activist (b. 1942).

• 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 Mat Mathews

  Dutch accordion player (b. 1924).

• Feb. 12 Coleman Mellett

  American musician (born 1974).

• Feb. 12 Giacomo Bulgarelli
• Feb. 13 Edward Upward

  British modernist writer associated with the left-wing literary movement and a close friend of Christopher Isherwood.

• Feb. 14 Louie Bellson

  Renowned American jazz drummer, composer, and bandleader who significantly influenced the big band and jazz drumming scene during the...

• Feb. 16 Stephen Kim Sou-hwan

  South korean cardinal (b. 1921).

• Feb. 17 Conchita Cintrón

  Chilean bullfighter and journalist (b. 1922).

• Feb. 19 Oreste Lionello
• Feb. 20 Larry H. Miller

  American businessman and philanthropist (b. 1944).

• Feb. 20 Christopher Nolan
• Feb. 22 Paul Joseph Phạm Đình Tụng
• Feb. 25 Philip José Farmer

  Philip José Farmer was an influential science fiction author renowned for his innovative Riverworld series.

• 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.

• 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...

• Feb. 28 Paul Harvey

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