July 27

William Edward Jonas (1890–1916) was an English footballer who played as an inside forward for clubs including Huddersfield Town and West Bromwich Albion. He was celebrated for his skill and goal-scoring ability prior to the outbreak of World War I. Jonas enlisted in the British Army in 1914 and served on the Western Front. He was killed in action during the Battle of the Somme in 1916. His sacrifice exemplifies the many athletes who traded the pitch for the battlefield. Jonas is honored in both football history and military memorials for his dual legacy.

Woolf Barnato was born in London in 1898 and inherited a fortune from his family's diamond business. He became one of the famed Bentley Boys, driving Bentley cars to victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans three times between 1928 and 1930. Barnato was also Chairman of Bentley Motors, overseeing its merger with Rolls-Royce in 1931. He set speed records, including the legendary 'Blue Train' challenge, driving from Cannes to Calais faster than France’s express train. A philanthropist and sportsman, he supported aviation and motor-racing clubs throughout Britain. Barnato's blend of competitive spirit and business acumen made him a celebrated figure of the interwar period. He died in 1948, leaving a legacy in both motorsport and industry.

Joe Tinker was born in Indiana in 1880 and made his MLB debut with the Chicago Cubs in 1902. As a shortstop, he formed the legendary double play trio 'Tinker-to-Evers-to-Chance' that helped the Cubs win multiple pennants and World Series titles. Tinker was known for his defensive brilliance, quick reflexes, and leadership on the field. After his playing career, he managed the Philadelphia Phillies, Cincinnati Reds, and Washington Senators. He also served as a coach and remained active in baseball communities. Tinker was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1946, cementing his legacy in America's pastime. He passed away in 1948, remembered as one of the game's great fielders and innovators.

Hooks Dauss (1889–1963), born Walter Edward Dauss, was a Major League Baseball pitcher best known for his long tenure with the Detroit Tigers. He made his MLB debut in 1912 and remained with the Tigers for fifteen seasons, posting a career record of 223 wins. Dauss led the American League in wins in 1915 and 1919, showcasing his durability and skill on the mound. His 350 career games pitched set a franchise record that stood for decades. Known for his relentless work ethic and versatility, he excelled in both starting and relief roles. After retiring, Dauss remained active in baseball as a scout and mentor to young players. He is remembered as one of the finest pitchers in Tigers history.

Charles 'Babe' Adams (1882–1968) was an American Major League Baseball pitcher celebrated for his consistency and postseason heroics. He debuted with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1906 and remained with the team until 1926, compiling a career record of 194 wins. Adams famously won three games in the 1909 World Series, helping the Pirates secure the championship. Known for his slow curveball and control, he led the National League in wins in 1914. After his playing career, he managed and coached in the minor leagues, sharing his knowledge with younger players. Adams was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1974, honoring his enduring impact on the sport. His legacy lives on in Pittsburgh and baseball history.

Charlie Tully (1924–1971) was an Irish footballer celebrated for his elegant midfield play and competitive spirit. Born in Belfast, he rose to prominence with Celtic, contributing to league titles in the late 1940s. Known for his vision, ball control, and leadership on the field, Tully earned multiple caps for Ireland. After retiring as a player, he transitioned into coaching, managing West Bromwich Albion and Belfast clubs. Tully was also a pioneering broadcaster, bringing insights and humor to football commentary. His contributions to Irish football earned him a place in the hearts of fans on both sides of the Irish Sea. Tully's legacy lives on in Celtic lore and Irish sporting history.

John 'Smoky Joe' Wood was born in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1889 and debuted with the Boston Red Sox in 1908. He became one of baseball's most dominant pitchers, leading the Red Sox to the 1912 World Series title. Wood won 34 games in the 1912 season and pitched every inning of both World Series games that year. After arm injuries curtailed his pitching career, he converted to the outfield and posted a respectable hitting record. He later served as a coach and manager in both major and minor leagues, including a stint as pitching coach for the Chicago Cubs. Wood's contributions were honored with induction into the Boston Red Sox Hall of Fame. John 'Smoky Joe' Wood died on July 27, 1985, remembered as one of the game's early legends.

Travis Jackson was born in Waldo, Arkansas, in 1903 and made his Major League debut with the New York Giants in 1922. As a shortstop, he was renowned for his defensive prowess and formed a dynamic double-play combination with Bill Terry. Jackson was a key member of three World Series championship teams (1922, 1933, 1936) with the Giants. He was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1982, honoring his .291 career batting average and fielding excellence. After retiring as a player in 1936, Jackson managed and coached in both the minor and major leagues, sharing his expertise. His deep knowledge of the game influenced generations of infielders through his coaching roles. Travis Jackson died on July 27, 1987, leaving an enduring legacy in baseball history.

Born in Baltimore in 1965, Reggie Lewis became a standout at Northeastern University before being drafted by the Boston Celtics in 1987. He developed into a key player for the Celtics, known for his scoring ability, leadership, and versatility on the court. In 1992, Lewis was named captain of the team, a rare honor for a young star in the NBA. During an offseason practice in 1993, he collapsed due to an undiagnosed heart condition and died at the age of 27. His untimely death led to increased awareness and research into cardiac health in athletes. Today, Lewis is remembered as one of the most promising players of his generation whose career ended far too soon.

Born in Durham, North Carolina in 1905, Richard Beaumont Ferrell debuted in MLB in 1929 with the St. Louis Browns. Known for his strong throwing arm and game-calling, he quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier catchers. Ferrell spent the bulk of his career with the Washington Senators, earning nine All-Star selections and a World Series appearance in 1933. After retiring as a player, he remained in baseball as a coach and scout, imparting his expertise to future generations. His contributions were honored with induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1984. Ferrell passed away in 1995, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and integrity on and off the field.

Rhonda Ann Sing, better known by her ring name Monster Ripper, was a fierce Canadian professional wrestler renowned for her strength and agility. She competed in promotions such as Stampede Wrestling, WWF (as Bertha Faye), and All Japan Women's Pro-Wrestling, becoming a top star. Sing captured multiple championships, including the prestigious WWWA World Single Championship in Japan. Her intense rivalries and dynamic in-ring style made her a fan favorite. Sing's larger-than-life persona and athleticism inspired future generations of women wrestlers. After retiring from competition, she remained involved in fitness and training. Her contributions helped elevate women's wrestling on the global stage. Sing is remembered as a trailblazer in professional wrestling history.

James Oyebola (1961–2007) was a prominent heavyweight boxer known for his powerful southpaw punch. Born in Lagos, Nigeria, he turned professional after relocating to England. Oyebola captured the British heavyweight championship and defended it against top contenders of his era. Renowned for his resilience and strength, he became a respected figure in British boxing. His career left a lasting impact on the sport before his untimely death in 2007.