Jeff Donnell was a popular American actress who appeared in many films and television shows from the 1940s to the 1980s. She was best known for her roles as Alice Gobel in The George Gobel Show, Dorothy Lawrence in the Gidget movies, and Stella Fields in General Hospital. She was also the daughter-in-law of former President Jimmy Carter. But how did Jeff Donnell die? What was her cause of death? In this article, we will explore the life and death of Jeff Donnell, and the legacy she left behind.
Early Life and Career
Jeff Donnell was born as Jean Marie Donnell on July 10, 1921, in Windham, Maine. She adopted the nickname “Jeff” after the character in her favorite comic strip, Mutt and Jeff. She graduated from Towson High School in Maryland, and attended the Leland Powers School of Drama in Boston, and the Yale School of Drama. She was signed to a contract by Columbia Pictures in 1942, and made her film debut in My Sister Eileen. She became a versatile actress, working in comedies, mysteries, westerns, and musicals. She also developed a flair for comedy, and often played the tomboyish or plain-speaking sidekick of the glamorous heroine.
Personal Life and Relationships
Jeff Donnell was married four times, and had two children. Her first husband was William Anderson, whom she married in 1940 and divorced in 1953. Her second husband was actor Aldo Ray, whom she married in 1954 and divorced in 1956. Her third husband was John Bricker, whom she married in 1958 and divorced in 1963. Her fourth and final husband was Radcliffe Bealey, whom she married in 1974 and divorced in 1975. Her son, Jeff Carter, is the son of former President Jimmy Carter and Rosalynn Carter. Her daughter, Margaret Carter, is an actress and singer. Jeff Donnell was also a grandmother of four, and a great-grandmother of one.
Cause of Death and Legacy
Jeff Donnell died of a heart attack on April 11, 1988, at the age of 66. She was in her sleep at her home in Los Angeles, California. She had suffered from ill health in her later years, including a serious bout with Addison’s disease, a rare disorder that affects the adrenal glands. She was cremated, and her ashes were scattered in the Pacific Ocean. Jeff Donnell was remembered as a talented and versatile actress, who brought joy and laughter to many audiences. She was also a loving and devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, who was proud of her family. She left behind a legacy of films and television shows, that are still enjoyed by many fans today. According to Wikipedia, some of her notable credits include The Fuller Brush Girl, In a Lonely Place, Sweet Smell of Success, Julia, and Dr. Kildare. She was also honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, for her contributions to television. Jeff Donnell was a remarkable woman, who lived a full and rich life. She will always be remembered as a star, both on and off the screen.
