Actress Jane Russell Dies at 89

Screen siren and stage veteran Jane Russell died at her home in Santa Maria, California on Monday, February 28 of respiratory failure, according to a report by The Associated Press. She was 89.

Russell appeared on Broadway in the original production of Company, replacing Elaine Stritch in the role of Joanne.

She is best known for her film work, including her debut in Howard Hughes’ 1941 Western The Outlaw, the 1948 comedy The Paleface, and the 1953 film version of the musical Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, opposite Marilyn Monroe.

She is survived by her children, Thomas K. Waterfield, Tracy Foundas and Robert “Buck” Waterfield, as well as six grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

A public funeral will be held on March 12 at 11am at Pacific Christian Church in Santa Maria.