Shelley Fabares, Star of ‘The Donna Reed Show’ and ‘Coach,’ Dies at 82

Hollywood is mourning the loss of beloved actress Shelley Fabares, who has died at the age of 82.

Fabares died Saturday in Los Angeles, surrounded by family and loved ones, her family confirmed. A cause of death was not given.

Best known for playing Mary Stone on The Donna Reed Show, Fabares became a familiar face to generations of television viewers. She later found another major success as Christine Armstrong on Coach, earning two Emmy nominations for her performance.

Born January 19, 1944, in Santa Monica, California, Fabares began acting as a child and made her television debut at just 10 years old. She also enjoyed success as a singer, with her 1962 hit “Johnny Angel” reaching No. 1.

Her film career included three appearances alongside Elvis Presley in Girl Happy, Spinout, and Clambake. She also appeared in One Day at a Time and numerous other television shows and films.

Fabares was married to actor Mike Farrell for decades and was stepmother to his two children.

Her family remembered her as a woman known for her kindness, humor, loyalty, courage, and warmth.

Shelley Fabares leaves behind a remarkable legacy on television and in music. She will be deeply missed.

Rest in peace, Shelley. ❤️