Shelley Fabares, Donna Reed Show Star And Elvis Presley Leading Lady, Dead At 82

Actress and singer Shelley Fabares has died at age 82. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Fabares passed away after a brief period of illness on Saturday, August 22 in Los Angeles. She was surrounded by her loved ones. 

"To her family and friends, Shelley was a source of love, strength, laughter and comfort," the family's statement read. "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."

Born Michele Ann Marie Fabares, she was a prominent performer who appeared in over 90 projects. She was known for her starring roles opposite Elvis Presley in movies "Girl Happy," "Spinout," and "Clambake." She was also a well-known TV actress who was known for several prominent sitcoms. Among many other roles, she played  Mary Stone on "The Donna Reed Show" and Francine Webster on "One Day at a Time." She was also a key cast member of "Coach,"  earning two Primetime Emmy nominations for her role as Christine Armstrong. In the 1990s and 2000s, Fabares became known for voicing Superman's mother Martha Kent in various animated projects.