‘Donna Reed Show’, ‘Coach’ star Shelley Fabares, who acted with Elvis Presley, dies at 82
LOS ANGELES, Aug 25 — Actress and singer Shelley Fabares, who became a household name playing Mary Stone on The Do...
Shelley Fabares, the actress known for her roles in The Donna Reed Show and Coach, has passed away at the age of 82. Born Michele Ann Marie Fabares in Santa Monica on January 19, 1944, she began her career as a child model after her mother discovered her talent at the age of three. Fabares transitioned to television in the 1950s, eventually landing the iconic role of Mary Stone on The Donna Reed Show in 1958.
Her success on the show led to a recording career, with her 1962 hit Johnny Angel reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Fabares also made significant appearances in films alongside Elvis Presley, including Girl Happy, Spinout, and Clambake. Her television work continued for several decades, including a role in the television film Brian's Song and appearances in One Day at a Time and The Practice.
Fabares married Mike Farrell in 1984, and the couple remained together for 42 years, with her becoming stepmother to Farrell’s children. In 2000, she underwent a liver transplant after being diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis. Fabares was also involved in Alzheimer’s disease awareness following her mother's diagnosis and remained active in the Screen Actors Guild. She is survived by her husband Mike Farrell and her stepchildren Michael and Erin.
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