Eileen McDonough was an American former child actress who appeared on various television shows in the 1970s, such as The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Gunsmoke, The Waltons, and Apple’s Way. She was born on May 20, 1962, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to parents Joe and Loretta McDonough. She had three siblings: Mary Beth, Michael, and Elena. She died on March 13, 2012, in Van Nuys, California, at the age of 49. What was the cause of her death? Here is what we know.
Natural Causes
According to her obituary published by Legacy.com, Eileen McDonough died of natural causes. The obituary did not specify the exact nature of her illness or condition, but it stated that she passed away peacefully in Van Nuys, CA. She was preceded in death by her father, Joe; mother, Loretta; and sister, Elena. She is survived by her siblings Mary Beth and Michael, as well as several nieces and nephews.
Career and Life
Eileen McDonough began her acting career at the age of 12, when she appeared as a guest star on The Mary Tyler Moore Show in 1974. She played the role of Bess Lindstrom, the daughter of Phyllis Lindstrom (Cloris Leachman). She reprised her role in two more episodes of the show in 1975 and 1977.
She also appeared on other popular TV shows of the time, such as Gunsmoke, The Waltons, and Apple’s Way. She played the role of Sally Ann Harper, a young girl who befriends John-Boy Walton (Richard Thomas) in The Waltons episode “The Firestorm” in 1976. She also played the role of Amy Peabody, a girl who falls in love with Tommy Bradford (Willie Aames) in Apple’s Way episode “The First Love” in 1975.
Eileen McDonough retired from acting in 1977, after appearing in a TV movie called The Death of Richie. She then pursued a career in nursing and worked as a registered nurse for many years. She also enjoyed traveling, gardening, and spending time with her family and friends.
Legacy and Tributes
Eileen McDonough is remembered by her fans and co-stars as a talented and sweet actress who brought joy to many people through her performances. Her sister Mary Beth McDonough, who also starred on The Waltons as Erin Walton, paid tribute to her on Facebook after her death. She wrote: “My beautiful sister Eileen passed away today. She was a wonderful person with a huge heart. I will miss her terribly.”
Other celebrities who worked with Eileen McDonough also expressed their condolences and shared their memories of her. Richard Thomas, who played John-Boy Walton on The Waltons, said: “She was a lovely girl and a very good actress. I have fond memories of working with her.” Cloris Leachman, who played Phyllis Lindstrom on The Mary Tyler Moore Show, said: “She was a darling child and a joy to work with. I’m so sorry to hear of her passing.”
Eileen McDonough’s fans also mourned her loss and thanked her for her contribution to the entertainment industry. Many of them commented on her obituary page and shared their favorite episodes and scenes featuring her. Some of them also posted photos and videos of her on social media platforms.
Eileen McDonough cause of death may have been natural, but she left behind a legacy that will live on through her work and her loved ones. She will always be remembered as a bright star who touched many hearts with her smile and talent. Rest in peace, Eileen McDonough.
