List of Famous people who died in 1979

Henry Talbot de Vere "Harry" Clifton (1907–1979) was an eccentric, British aristocrat, poet, race horse owner, art collector

Jackie Brenston was an American R&B singer and saxophonist, who recorded, with Ike Turner's band, the first version of the pioneering rock-and-roll song "Rocket 88".

Nick Grinde was an American film director and screenwriter. He directed 57 films between 1928 and 1945.

James Francis Aloysius McIntyre was an American prelate of the Roman Catholic Church. He served as Archbishop of Los Angeles from 1948 to 1970, and was created a cardinal in 1953. He was a highly successful builder of new parishes, churches, and schools. He was notable in Church politics, and his reputation remains highly controversial.

Harold Leventhal was a United States Circuit Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit.