August 2011Notable Deaths

Here’s a list of deaths in August 2011 of notable individuals ranging from the unique sound of Motown to a controversial reality show husband.

Esther Gordy Edwards – 1920-2011 – In August, we celebrated the life of Edwards, who transformed an old recording studio into a museum. It was her way of preserving the Motown sound. Edwards’ nickname says it all about how much she meant to the Motown music community.

Nick Ashford – 1942-2011 – With his wife, Nick Ashford wrote and produced several hit songs, including this Marvin Gaye’s “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” hit. Ashford and his wife were also successful as performers themselves and had a hit with their song “Solid” in the 1980s. We lost a notable legend in August.

Michael Showers – 1966-2011 – Known for his role in a hit HBO show and for his appearances in “Breaking Bad, ” “I Love You Phillip Morris” and “The Vampire Diaries,” Michael Showers’ untimely death in August shocked fans of his work.

Mike Flanagan – 1951-2011 – We lost a star baseball player in August, who played pitcher for this team from the 1970s through the early 1990s. Flanagan was known for his incredible talent by winning the Cy Young award as well as for his quick wit.

Jerry Leiber – 1933-2011 – We lost a great songwriter in August. Jerry Leiber wrote many hits, including “Stand by Me” and “Jailhouse Rock” by Elvis Presley song. Leiber was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1985 and has his own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Russell Armstrong – 1964-2011 – Russell Armstrong was an investment banker and venture capitalist in Beverly Hills, California. He is known for being the estranged husband of a reality show cast member, and he appeared on the Bravo show several times. -August 2011Notable Deaths