Kathleen Crowley Dies at 87

Actress Kathleen Crowley has died at the age of 87.

Crowley was born December 26, 1929, in Green Bank, New Jersey, where she passed away on April 23rd. An obituary appeared in The Hollywood Reporter.

Crowley was best known for her appearances in countless TV Westerns. She appeared in more episodes of my favorite TV series, MAVERICK -- eight in all -- than any other actress. She was in two episodes apiece as the recurring characters Melanie Blake and Marla, and she also took over the role of Modesty Blaine from Mona Freeman for a single episode.

With MAVERICK star Jack Kelly:

With Mike Road, Kelly, and Will Wright:

In addition to the five MAVERICK episodes mentioned above, she was in three more, including one ("Kiz") where she was uncharacteristically dark-haired. She's seen below in that episode with Roger Moore and Whit Bissell.

Her film appearances also included Westerns, notably THE SILVER WHIP (1953) with Dale Robertson and Rory Calhoun, Disney's WESTWARD HO, THE WAGONS! (1956) with Fess Parker, and the superb, underrated THE QUIET GUN (1957) opposite Forrest Tucker.

Crowley married in 1969 and when her son was born in 1970, she retired from the screen after a 20-year career.

Sincere condolences to the family and friends of a lovely lady whose work brought me great pleasure.