Joe Clark
The previous principal of Paterson Eastside High School, Joe Clark was recognized nationally when he made efforts to improve school standards all across the United States. In fact, he was the inspiration for Morgan Freeman’s 1989 film, Lean On Me. On December 29th, 2020, Joe passed away at age 82 after fighting an illness. According to the statement released by his family, Joe passed away in Florida while surrounded by loved ones.
Phil Niekro
Phil Niekro’s knuckleball is one move that earned him a spot in the MLB Hall of Fame in 1997. For a while now, the MLB player has been battling cancer. However, on December 26th, 2020, the 81-year-old passed away in his sleep. Following his death, the Atlanta Braves released a statement saying they remembered him as “a constant presence over the years, in our clubhouse, our alumni activities, and throughout Braves Country.”