Movie Star Jane Russell Dies At 89 Years Old
A family member says Jane Russell, stunning star of 1940s and 1950s films, has died at age 89.
Russell was considered one of America’s most well known sex symbols of her time after being discovered by Howard Hughes.
Hughes, the eccentric billionaire, cast Russell in his sexy, and controversial, 1941 Western “The Outlaw,” turning her into an overnight star.
She would go on to appear opposite such leading men as Frank Sinatra and Bob Hope, as well as fellow actress Marilyn Monroe.
Although her film career slowed in the 1960s, Russell remained active throughout her life.
Until her health began to decline a few weeks ago, Waterfield said she remained active singing and working for various causes.
She moved to Santa Maria 11 years ago from Montecito to be closer to her son.
Russell leaves behind three grown children, a son-in-law and a daughter-in-law. She also has six grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.
During Russell’s film career she founded Women’s Adoption International Fund, a.k.a. WAIF.
A service will be held to honor Russell at Pacific Christian Church in Santa Maria, on March 23 at 11:00 a.m. A reception is scheduled to follow at 2:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family is asking the public to donate to:
Care Net Pregnancy & Resource Center
121 West Battles
Santa Maria, CA 93458
OR
CASA of Santa Barbara County
120 East Jones Street, Ste. 130
Santa Maria, CA 93454
KSBY-TV contributed to this story
