Shirley Mae Jones (born March 31, 1934) is an American actress and singer who has been in show business for over six decades. She is best known for her roles in musical films such as Oklahoma! (1955), Carousel (1956), and The Music Man (1962). She won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role as a vengeful prostitute in Elmer Gantry (1960). She also starred as Shirley Partridge, the widowed mother of five children, in the musical situation-comedy television series The Partridge Family (1970–1974).
In 1970, Jones was the producers' first choice to audition for the lead role of Shirley Partridge in The Partridge Family. She was convinced that the combination of music and comedy would be a surefire hit. Jones accepted the role and went on to become one of the most beloved television moms of all time.
The Partridge Family was an instant success and ran for four seasons from 1970 to 1974. Jones' portrayal of Shirley Partridge earned her two Emmy nominations and a Golden Globe nomination. She also released several albums with the cast of The Partridge Family, including the hit single "I Think I Love You".
Throughout her career, Jones has continued to act and sing. She has appeared in numerous films and television shows, including The Love Boat, Murder, She Wrote, and The Simpsons. She has also released several solo albums, including her most recent album, "My Heart Sings".
In her later years, Jones moved to Big Bear, California, where she lived until her death in 2020. In Big Bear, Jones was an active member of the community, often attending local events and participating in charity work. She was also a regular at the Big Bear Lake Senior Center, where she enjoyed playing bingo and other activities with her friends.
Jones was also a devoted family member. She had two children, Shaun and Patrick Cassidy, with her late husband Jack Cassidy. Her stepson, David Cassidy, was a co-star on The Partridge Family. Jones remained close to her family and often visited them in Big Bear.
Sadly, Jones passed away in 2020 at the age of 86. Her death was announced by her family, who said that she had been surrounded by her loved ones in her final days. Jones will be remembered for her many contributions to the entertainment industry and for her dedication to her family and community in Big Bear, California.
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