Reta Shaw was an American actress who was best known for playing strong, hard-edged, working women in film and on many of the most popular television programs of the 1960s and 1970s. She may be best remembered as the housekeeper, Martha Grant, on the television series The Ghost & Mrs. Muir and as the cook, Mrs. Brill, in the 1964 film Mary Poppins. But how did Reta Shaw die? What was her cause of death? In this article, we will explore the life and career of Reta Shaw, as well as the circumstances of her death.
Early Life and Career
Reta Shaw was born in South Paris, Maine, on September 13, 1912, to Edna M. (née Easson) and Howard Walker Shaw. Her father was an orchestra leader. Shaw’s younger sister was actress Marguerite Shaw. The daughter and granddaughter of women who believed in spiritualism, Shaw reportedly once told a newspaper interviewer that she had been “brought up on a ouija board” (according to Wikipedia).
She was a graduate of the Leland Powers School of the Theater in Boston, Massachusetts. Shaw’s first credited appearance on the Broadway stage was in 1947’s It Takes Two. She then appeared in Virginia Reel and on Broadway in a comedic role as Mabel in the original production of The Pajama Game in 1954, as well as in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, Picnic, and Annie Get Your Gun, the last on tour with Mary Martin.
She had featured roles in several motion pictures, including Picnic, The Pajama Game, Mary Poppins, Pollyanna, The Ghost And Mr. Chicken, Bachelor in Paradise and Escape to Witch Mountain. She also appeared in many television shows, such as The Ann Sothern Show, The Tab Hunter Show, Ichabod and Me, Pete and Gladys, The Cara Williams Show, The Lucy Show, Wagon Train, Bewitched, The Ghost & Mrs. Muir, Happy Days, Cannon, The Odd Couple and Emergency!
Reta Shaw Cause of Death: Emphysema
Reta Shaw’s death was caused by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a lung condition that makes it hard to breathe. COPD is often caused by smoking or exposure to air pollution or other irritants. Shaw died in 1982 at age 69 from emphysema in Encino, California (according to Stars We Lost).
Emphysema is a type of COPD that damages the air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs. This reduces the amount of oxygen that can reach the bloodstream and causes shortness of breath, coughing and wheezing. Emphysema can also lead to complications such as heart failure, infections and respiratory failure.
There is no cure for emphysema, but treatments can help manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life. These include quitting smoking, using inhalers or oxygen therapy, taking medications or antibiotics and undergoing surgery or lung transplantation.
Legacy and Tribute
Reta Shaw was a talented and versatile actress who brought humor and warmth to her roles. She was admired by her fans and colleagues for her professionalism and personality. She left behind a rich legacy of memorable performances that continue to entertain and inspire generations of viewers.
She was buried at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in the Hollywood Hills. Her grave marker reads: “Reta Shaw / Actress / Sept 13 1912 – Jan 8 1982 / A Star On Earth / A Star In Heaven”. She is survived by her daughter Deborah Forester.
Reta Shaw will always be remembered as one of the most beloved actresses of her time. She made us laugh and cry with her unforgettable characters. She was a true star who shone brightly on screen and off. Rest in peace, Reta Shaw.
