Actress Shelley Fabares Dies in Los Angeles at Age 82

Actress Shelley Fabares, who co-starred alongside Elvis Presley in three 1960s musical films and later played Christine Armstrong on the hit sitcom Coach, died on Saturday in Los Angeles at the age of 82.

Her family confirmed her passing in a statement, noting that she died while surrounded by loved ones.

"To her family and friends, Shelley was a source of love, strength, laughter, and comfort," her family said. "She was a devoted wife, cherished stepmother, daughter, sister, niece, aunt, family member, and loyal friend whose warmth, generosity, humor, and grace made an enduring difference in the lives of everyone who knew her. She had a remarkable ability to make people feel welcomed, valued, and cared for."

Born in Santa Monica, California, in 1944, Fabares began her career as a child performer on Letter to Loretta before gaining widespread recognition as Mary Stone on The Donna Reed Show. She made her big-screen debut opposite Presley in the 1965 film Girl Happy, subsequently co-starring with the singer in Spinout and Clambake.

"We will miss her deeply — not only as a celebrated performer, but as the loving and extraordinary person she was in our everyday lives," her family said.