Beverly Garland was an American actress who is best known for her roles in “Scarecrow and Mrs. King,” “My Three Sons,” and “Decoy.” She had a long and successful career in film and television, becoming a pioneer for women in the industry.
Personal and Family Life
Beverly Garland was born Beverly Lucy Fessenden on October 17, 1926, in Santa Cruz, California. She studied drama and performed in small theaters before entering film. Beverly was married three times, her most notable marriage being to Fillmore Pajeau Crank Sr., with whom she had two children. In total, she had four children and remained close to her family throughout her life.
Career Highlights
Garland began her entertainment career in radio and made her film debut in “D.O.A.” in 1949. She became famous for playing suburban mothers and had a significant impact on the television landscape, being the first actress featured in a dramatic television series with “Decoy.” Over her career, she guest-starred in numerous shows and continued to act until her later years, earning recognition for her contributions to television.
Death and Legacy
Beverly Garland passed away on December 5, 2008, in her home in Hollywood Hills, Los Angeles, after a long illness. She was 82 years old. Her legacy includes not only her memorable performances but also her trailblazing role for women in the entertainment industry, such as being the first female police officer on television.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Pretty Poison | 1968-07-18 | Mrs. Stepanek |
| Where the Red Fern Grows | 1974-06-21 | Mother |
| Swamp Women | 1956-04-01 | Vera |
| It Conquered the World | 1956-07-14 | Claire Anderson |
| Not of This Earth | 1957-02-10 | Nadine Story |
| Airport 1975 | 1974-10-18 | Mrs. Scott Freeman |
| D.O.A. | 1949-12-23 | Miss Foster |
| 7th Heaven | 1996-08-26 | Ginger Jackson |
| Scarecrow and Mrs. King | 1983-10-03 | Dotty West |
| Friends | 1994-09-22 | Aunt Iris |
| Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman | 1976-01-05 |