Notable Deaths of 2023 - Remembering Barbara Walters, James Earl Jones, and Other Legends

Remembering Those We Lost in 2023

As 2023 begins, we take a moment to reflect on some of the notable figures in entertainment, sports, politics and other fields who died this past year. Their contributions and legacies will live on even as we mourn their passing.

Arts & Entertainment Deaths

The world lost many talented singers, actors and other entertainers in 2023. These include legendary actress and director Barbara Walters, best known as the first female co-anchor on an American evening news program. Walters trailblazed the way for women in journalism during her over 50-year career. Much-awarded actor James Earl Jones, beloved for his iconic voice roles like Darth Vader and Mufasa, passed away at age 91.

We also said goodbye to groundbreaking entertainer Jerry Lee Lewis, one of the pioneers of rock n’ roll music in the 1950s. Prolific actor Angela Lansbury, who starred in such hits as “Murder, She Wrote” and provided the voice for ‘Beauty and the Beast’s’ Mrs. Potts, died at age 97. Comedic legend Leslie Jordan, best known for his Emmy-winning role on “Will & Grace,” was honored in his hometown of Chattanooga, Tennessee after his unexpected death at 67.

Sports Legends Lost

Some athletic greats also left us this past year. Hall of Fame basketball player Bill Russell, who won a staggering 11 NBA championships with the Boston Celtics, died at age 88. Groundbreaking race car driver Danica Patrick passed away at age 40 from breast cancer, after amazing fans with her barrier-breaking career. And NFL superstar quarterback Tom Brady retired after an unmatched 23 seasons and seven Super Bowl wins under his belt (he later went into broadcasting).

Other Notable Deaths

Beyond entertainment and sports, 2023 also saw the loss of prominent leaders like former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, former U.S. Secretaries of State Madeleine Albright and Colin Powell, and Christian evangelist Billy Graham’s son Franklin Graham. Business magnate David Koch of Koch Industries fame also died this year. We even said farewell to the last known surviving 9/11 search and rescue dog, Brendan.

These and so many others will remain in our hearts even as a new year dawns. Their legacies live on through their work, their families and their contributions to making the world a better place.

East Idaho News Covers Local Stories

While we mourn legendary figures who died, news outlets like East Idaho News focus more on local people and events in the Idaho region. The publication started as a blog in 2009 and has grown into an award-winning source for news and information for Idaho Falls and surrounding areas.

Local News Priorities

East Idaho News emphasizes local breaking news and hyperlocal stories not always covered by larger news outlets. This includes school events, local government decisions, business openings, crimes and court cases. The site also highlights good news in the community, like charity events and human interest stories.

Platforms and Community

In addition to its website, East Idaho News shares content on social media and mobile platforms. It also produces local TV and radio content so Idaho residents can access news conveniently. The publication fosters community engagement through commenting, submitting letters and personal contributions like photos.

Awards and Expansion

East Idaho News has earned recognition from the Idaho Press Club and elsewhere for its reporting. It continues to expand its coverage to more towns in the eastern Idaho region. The site also partners with major outlets like ABC News to supplement its local content.

Even as we remember iconic figures who died in 2023, local journalists like East Idaho News connect residents to the stories most relevant in their everyday lives. This grassroots reporting informs and engages communities at the ground level.

FAQs

Who were some of the most notable people who died in 2023?

Some of the biggest names we lost in 2023 include legendary interviewer Barbara Walters, acclaimed actor James Earl Jones, groundbreaking entertainer Jerry Lee Lewis, beloved NBA star Bill Russell, and influential government leaders like Mikhail Gorbachev, Madeleine Albright and Colin Powell.

What kind of news does East Idaho News focus on?

East Idaho News is a local news source emphasizing hyperlocal stories, breaking news, and positive community stories in Idaho Falls and other eastern Idaho towns. This includes local government, businesses, schools, crime, and human interest.

How can I access East Idaho News?

You can access East Idaho News content on their website, social media pages, mobile apps, TV channel and radio broadcaster. Community members can also directly contribute content like photos and letters.

Why is local news coverage important?

Local news outlets like East Idaho News connect residents to information most relevant to their daily lives, which may not always get in-depth coverage from national news. Local reporting builds community engagement and informs locals about local politics, businesses, events and more.