Emmy Award-nominated actress and singer Shelley Fabares, who had a decades-long TV career and co-starred with Elvis Presley in three movies, has died aged 82.
Fabares’ breakthrough success came in the 1950s on The Donna Reed Show, where she played the star’s daughter Mary, while she later appeared on sitcom Coach from 1989 to 1997.
The star’s family, including M*A*S*H actor Mike Farrell, announced her death on Sunday night, confirming she had died on Saturday in Los Angeles, surrounded by her loved ones.
‘To her family and friends, Shelley was a source of love, strength, laughter, and comfort,’ Fabares’ family said in a statement to People Magazine. ‘She was a devoted wife, cherished stepmother, daughter, sister, niece, aunt, family member, and loyal friend whose warmth, generosity, humor, and grace made an enduring difference in the lives of everyone who knew her. She had a remarkable ability to make people feel welcomed, valued, and cared for.’
‘For millions, Shelley was a beloved actress whose work became part of the fabric of American television and film,’ they continued, highlighting some of her most popular work – as well as her Billboard chart-topping number one single, Johnny Angel.
‘But to those closest to her, her greatest legacy was personal: the love she gave so freely, the friendships she treasured, and the family bonds she held dear.’
More to follow.
