As the year 2015 comes to a close, we say goodbye to those who will be remembered for their work and contributions.
Entertainment
The entertainment world bid farewell to some of its most dynamic stars. Leonard Nimoy, best known as Mr. Spock in “Star Trek,” died at 83. Omar Sharif, who took roles in epic movies such as “Lawrence of Arabia” and “Doctor Zhivago,” was 83.
Dick Van Patten was the classic TV dad and “Eight is Enough” television comedy-drama series star. He died at 86. Reality TV star Bobbi Kristina Brown — daughter of Bobby Brown and Whitney Houston — died at 22.
For decades, moviegoers watched Christopher Lee as a villain in his many roles, notably Dracula. He died at 93. Wes Craven, the American film director known for his horror films “A Nightmare on Elm Street” and “Scream”, died at 76. Maureen O’Hara, Irish-American actress famously known for her red hair and for playing fierce roles in Western and adventure films, died at 95.
Music
The music world bid farewell to B.B. King, who brought the blues to the masses with his powerful voice and guitar, Lucille. He died at 89.
Politics and Activism
We lost several American political figures and activists. Social activist and civil rights movement leader Julian Bond was 75. Mario Cuomo, former New York governor and father of CNN “New Day” anchor Chris Cuomo, died at 82. Beau Biden, attorney and son of Vice President Joe Biden, passed away at 46.
Sports
In the sports world, fans said goodbye to three-time MVP catcher Yogi Berra, known for not only leading the Yankees and the Mets to the World Series, but also for his witty comments off the field. He was 90. Ernie Banks played 19 seasons with the Chicago Cubs and is remembered for his optimism. He died at 83.
Frank Gifford, an NFL star and eventually a commentator on “Monday Night Football,” passed away at the age of 84. College basketball coach Dean Smith was 83. He leaves behind a program he built at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Roddy Piper, better known by his ring name “Rowdy,” died at 61. He was a famous Canadian professional wrestler and actor.
Journalism
CBS journalist Bob Simon was 73. His five-decade career includes covering major events from all over the world.