Noel Neill

1920 - 2016

Noel Neill

1920 - 2016

BORN

1920

DIED

2016

Noel Neill Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Jul. 5, 2016.
Noel Neill, the actress known best as Lois Lane in “Superman” film serials and on TV, died July 3, 2016. She was 95.

Neill first played the intrepid reporter in the film serial “Superman” (1948) and its sequel, “Atom Man vs. Superman” (1950). Produced by Columbia Pictures, these were the first live-action adaptations of the popular comic book character Superman. The serials were financially successful and raised her profile as well as that of her Superman co-star, Kirk Alyn.

In 1953, she resumed the role of Lois Lane on the TV series “Adventures of Superman.” She replaced the original actress, Phyllis Coates, who had left the series after the first season. The syndicated series was a hit, especially with children, and ran for six seasons, until 1958. Plans to continue the series were dashed, however, after George Reeves, who played Superman, died of a gunshot wound in his Los Angeles home in 1959. Click to get weekly celebrity death news delivered to your inbox.

Noel Darleen Neill was born Nov. 25, 1920, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Her father was a journalist, and her mother was a dancer. Although she began performing at an early age, she also showed an aptitude for journalism with an early job writing articles for the trade publication Women’s Wear Daily. However, her passion lay in performing. She sang, danced, and even toured the Midwestern fair circuit playing the banjo.

While she was living with relatives in California, her singing caught the ear of the crooner Bing Crosby, an owner of the racetrack in Del Mar, who hired her to sing at the track’s Turf Club. She then began performing in various nightclubs in and around Hollywood.

She also began modeling for photographers, and her pinup became popular with GIs during World War II. She signed a contract with Paramount Pictures and appeared in Westerns, serials, and early local Los Angeles television productions. Her role as a teenage reporter in youth serials caught the eye of the producers of “Superman,” beginning her lifelong association with the franchise.

“In fact, I had never even read the comic books,” she told the Daily Gazette in 2004. “In those days, that was entirely a boy’s thing. I just fell into it.”

Unlike some actors who attempted to distance themselves from their most popular characters, Neill embraced her ties with Lois Lane and Superman. She often made personal appearances at conventions and on college campuses.

“I stood up there on that stage and cried,” she recalled about an early personal appearance at Monmouth College in New Jersey in 1974. “I just didn’t know how much it meant to people.”

Her portrayal of the fictional journalist inspired more than just adoration from male fanboys. It also served as an inspiration to young women looking for a female role model in popular culture who did more than cook and clean.

Following the end of the “Superman” TV series, she retired from acting full time. However, she would emerge from retirement three times to appear in Superman projects. In the 1978 film “Superman,” Neill had a cameo as Lois Lane’s mother. She appeared in an episode of the TV series “Superboy” in 1991, and in 2006 she played Gertrude Vanderworth, the dying elderly wife of Lex Luthor, in “Superman Returns.”

A 15-foot bronze statue of Lois Lane, modeled on Neill’s likeness, was erected in 2010 in Metropolis, Illinois, which bills itself as the Official Home of Superman.

She remained lifelong friends with “Adventures of Superman” co-star Jack Larson, who played Jimmy Olsen, until his death in 2015. She commented that the two lived in the same neighborhood and spoke weekly.

Neill married her husband, Harold Lierley, a makeup artist, in 1943.

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December 7, 2016

Alan Meserow posted to the memorial.

September 20, 2016

Chris Crowley posted to the memorial.

August 27, 2016

John Field posted to the memorial.

114 Entries

Alan Meserow

December 7, 2016

'Great Caesar's Ghost...." Perry White cried...Where is that young whippersnapper - Olsen" - "Here I am Chief... Clark and I we're looking for Lois... We were trying to beat her to the scoop about Professor Periwinkle... and his new invention for visiting people in the afterlife" - "How many times have I told you Olsen...Don't call me Chief !! - Clark, Jimmy... When you see Lois in the afterlife please tell her how much I love her and how much we all love her... She was beautiful in all ways...and for always....Great Caesar's Ghost...." - Not to be forgotten.... God bless us, Everyone...

Chris Crowley

September 20, 2016

I was saddened to hear of Ms. Neill's passing. I was a little girl when the Superman serial was on TV, and I loved it! She did such a great job playing the character of Lois Lane. I'm happy to know that she lived to be 95, and had a full life! Thank you for being a part of my childhood, and so many others, Ms. Neill! God bless you.

Honoring Noel at her 85th Birthday Celebration. November 25, 2005. Photo taken by Jim Bowers.

John Field

August 27, 2016

I was so happy to be able to call Noel my friend. She was a classy, special lady. She always had time for her friends and fans. She had a genuine sweetness that came through in every aspect of her life. I hope that the afterlife is full of stacks of chocolate Noel. Miss you.

August 16, 2016

Noel Neill was a beautiful, talented actress and woman. Capable of play her roles with confidence. My sincere condolences for your loss. Although no words of consolation is enough to ease your pain, our Heavenly Father understands our pain and He can become your Stronghold during this times of grief.

Robert Macri

August 15, 2016

ahh,u were such the dame!Now heaven got the story covered.Robert

Rick McDaniel

August 12, 2016

Wow. This was my childhood and I was revitted to each episode. You did not and you'll ever know. God bless you and thank you.

Adrian Rose

August 3, 2016

I loved you in the part of Lois Lane. You portrayed your part very well. Your part showed a real interest in Superman. It was so realistic. There was a real camaraderie between you and George Reese. I thank you so much.

Frank Mize

July 29, 2016

I remember racing home from school in the late 50's and 60's to watch re-runs of one of my favorite TV shows ever, Superman. The world was a much brighter place with Ms Neill in it, and she will be missed.

Pam Alderman

July 28, 2016

Oh I loved her. she was supermans girl.. I was in the seventh grade running down the road just trying to get home in time to see the last mins. she was lovely .. I am sure she is at peace...

July 27, 2016

With deepest sympathy on the tragic loss of your loved one. May it comfort you to know that she will return to the days of her youthful vigor as promised in Job 33:25.

J M. Brown

July 16, 2016

I also watched Noel, as Lois Lane. I loved her character, and her smile. I was saddened by her passing. Rest in peace, Noel.

Scott Ranallo

July 15, 2016

So Sorry To Here Of your Passing. I grew up with the program and it was clean a show with no swearing . RIP Noel you were the greatest.

keith morris

July 14, 2016

i grew up in the 70's and watched television and all programs were respectfully clean with family values of love. She was indeed a part of that time and still on today i enjoy watching those wonderful shows. my deepest sympathy to the family of such a wonderful lady.

alejandro dacanay

July 13, 2016

I do remember noel neill in the superman tv shows. I was a kid then and it made me fell good to watch the programs. Great lady she will be missed. Thanks for the great memories. RIP

Donna Bourg

July 13, 2016

I was a fan for a long time. She was a beautiful lady and good actress. I will miss her.

Bob Greene

July 12, 2016

Thank you for the many years of enjoyment you provided me in my youth. Rest in peace my beautiful lady.

Dave Snyder

July 12, 2016

Your memory and legacy will burn in my heart for years to come . I truly enjoyed watching you every week as a child, even the reruns of today I still enjoy.. Rest in Peace my Dear

July 12, 2016

May family and friends always keep the fond memories and good times close in their hearts and minds. She is in Gods' hands now. God love and care for you.

sam haroian

July 11, 2016

Have been a fan since I was a kid, I am now 69 years old. She was the one and only Lois Lane.

Steven Weiss

July 11, 2016

You played Lois Lane better than anyone ever could. May your name and memory be for a blessing. May your legacy endure for generations to come. Rest in Peace.

Lawrence Slade

July 11, 2016

You were,are, and always will be the embodiment of Lois Lane to me and millions of other people throughout the world.

William I Reed Jr

July 11, 2016

Thanks for the memories.

Wayne

July 10, 2016

May Noel rest in peace. I grew up watching her perform beautifully as Lois Lane. I am very saddened that now George, Jack, and Noel have passed. May the Good Lord enjoy their presence and watch over their family members.

July 10, 2016

God Bless always enjoyed watching you in Superman. Always thought you where one special lady. Rest in Peace

Dean Hoes

July 10, 2016

In my teens use to watch supermanandloislanelots on TV my condolences at this time may she rest in peace I believe she play secretary for or clarkkent she will always be remembered.

Steve V.

July 9, 2016

Lois Lane will be in our hearts forever ! She was a wonderful actress and " Superman " would have never achieved its long run and support from viewers all these years without her. May God Bless her. She lives in the viewers who still believe in her and watch the episodes. In all news and media reports; she lived a loving life as a very open and caring person.

Evans Family

July 9, 2016

Our thoughts are with the Neil family. Please accept our sincere condolences on the passing of a wonderful woman. May you find comfort in the God of tender mercies.

July 9, 2016

A real beauty. PART of an era. An icon too. RIP.

July 9, 2016

I always liked her in the Superman series and she was a beautiful lady.

Larry Peck, Miami, Florida

Gina Reali

July 9, 2016

RIP Lois Lane. RIP.

wallace marribitt

July 8, 2016

Miss Neill...from a whole generation...THANK YOU for the memories..Wally Marribitt

Mellisa

July 8, 2016

Youll be missed dearly Noel.. It was my pleasure to get to kno you..

Thomas Wilson

July 8, 2016

The very best Lois Lane of them all! Thanks Noel. My condolences to your family. Requiescat in pace.

July 8, 2016

In our ❤ N thoughts youll forever be... It was my pleasure to get to kno you.. Love you forever

Harry Simpson

July 8, 2016

Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us. Godspeed.

July 8, 2016

My condolences, may you gain the strength to endure this difficult time.
Phillipians 4:6,7

NC

July 8, 2016

Wonderful childhood memories watching Superman. I wanted to be like Lois Lane. May she rest in peace.

Patricia Esposito
Connecticut

Jerry Honeycutt

July 7, 2016

Noel was truly one of the most talented actors of all time. I was a young boy when the Superman series was on TV in 1950's and this was my favorite show. Noel was something special. She seemed to be a very honest and sincere person as her acting script showed. A very lovely lady. We will miss her dearly. My deepest sympathy to her family. I will always remember her as my favorite "Lois Lane".

July 7, 2016

Rest in Peace Noel, you are part of my childhood and many others..All together again...Thanks for all the memories...

Donald Workman

July 7, 2016

Loved her role of Lois.

Richard Villarin

July 7, 2016

The entire cast of "The Adventures of Superman" was like part of the family for me, growing up in the early 60's, when the show was already in syndication. I watched each and every episode dozens of times and I loved Noel Neill, who bore a certain resemblance to my mother.

I'll always remember the thrill I felt when I saw her in her cameo in "An American in Paris," which felt like running into a loved one someplace unexpected.

May she rest in peace and in the presence of God.

July 7, 2016

I LOVED HER SHE LOOKED LIKE MY MOTHER LYNN

July 7, 2016

To many good memories to count.

stuart strongin

July 7, 2016

Thank you Ms. Neill for all the wonderful memories as lois lane. You and George Reeves made life so much brighter. I still love to watch you in Adventures of Superman. Rest in Peace.

Tom Hall

July 7, 2016

What a wonderful life! Well known and loved by all. The best and most memorable Lois Lane of all time.
Those of us who loved her should take solace in the fact that she, George, Jack, John, Bob and the others are all together now.

"The Adventure Lives on..."

May God Bless her.

Charlie Hirsch

July 7, 2016

You were always my favorite Lois Lane and you were so cute how you really loved Clark Kent even thou you were holding out for SUPERMAN !
We always have you in reruns at our house.
You now are soaring thru the clouds and heavens just like the Man of Steel.

Hazel Coleman

July 7, 2016

RIP Lois Lane. May God rest your soul. Thanks for the memories.You were loved by me and many more! Forever live with God in His Heavenly kingdom.

Robert Hollie

July 7, 2016

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

a fan

July 7, 2016

May the family and fans feel the comfort and support that comes from our Creator in times of sorrow.

M Scott

July 7, 2016

I love the Superman serial Noel Neill was one of the best Lois Lane that played that actress she will surely be missed may God grant her family and friends comfort during this time of sorrow. Psalm 34: 18

David Saks

July 7, 2016

You "were", and "always will be", Superman's greatest love, and the only Lois Lane, Noel. Goodbye and much love from your life-long fan.

Bill Collins

July 7, 2016

Noel Neill was in my thoughts just yesterday as I reminisced about Super Man. This is sad, sad news! She was a hero to me through her wit, strength and determination! I loved her hats, too! A wonderful role model for any generation, indeed! My sincerest indolences to her family.

Aldo

July 6, 2016

I will never forget my favorite childhood show and the wonderful actors that truly lived and loved the roles they played. Noel, thank you for your talent and place in motion pictures and in your outstanding performance as Lois Lane! Most of all, thank you for the beautiful memories. May you rest in peace.

Preston Kerns

July 6, 2016

Loved the show. Don't know how many times I played superman. Running into phone booths changing from Clark Kent into superman by tieing my coat are sweater around my neck as a cape and run down the street with arms out!!! RIP

Grady Youngblood

July 6, 2016

Noel Neill is the Greatest Actress on Tv & Movies

Karen Killeen

July 6, 2016

R.I.P. family so sorry for your loss

Thom Hamilton

July 6, 2016

I never had a chance to meet noel, but a friend of mine did, and asked noel if she would sign a picture, for me, i found out later, noel picked out the picture herself, and wrote it addressed to me, I will treasure that always, she always thought of others first,such a wonderful lady.

Carl Glass

July 6, 2016

Thank you, Noel for all those fun and memorable times we had at all those public appearances through the years along with the lunches and dinners. I thank you for your genuine friendship and kindness. You treated me like a best friend. Love, Carl.

Peter Cullen

July 6, 2016

My condolences to Noel Neill's family,friends ,and fans!Her performance as Lois Lane will live on in our memories,she seemed the perfect actress for the role!Thanks for the memories and the fun watching "Superman."R.I.P.

Roy AFan

July 6, 2016

One of my favorites, growing up...
RIP Noel Neill... Rest Lois...
Thank you for all the entertainment enjoyment.

David Call

July 6, 2016

May she rest in peace miss you fly with the angels love the call family

A Fan

July 6, 2016

Dear Noel's Family and Friends, Extremely fond memories of my childhood watching Superman. I enjoyed every one of the episodes.
I loved when Lois and Jimmy would try to figure out if Clark was really Superman.
My deepest sympathy to all of you. May she rest in peace.

Sull

July 6, 2016

Rest in peace Sull

July 6, 2016

To the family Noel Neill

I would like to offer my condolences to the family Noel Neil. May the God of peace "comfort your heart and make you firm" during these difficult times, 2 Thessalonians 2:16,17.

Deepest Sympathy

Ellen Evans

Jeneva Thomas

July 6, 2016

I would like to offer the family and friends my thoughts and prayers during this unexpected time of their life. There are no words that could bring mourning or grieve to an end, but please know that God has a much greater way that will bring these things to an end Matthew 5: 4.

July 6, 2016

To the family, as you treasure the wealth of memories shared with Noel be assured that the God of Comfort has her tucked away in his memory as well and, know that with prayer and supplication, he will bring you peace.
-S. Jenkins

July 6, 2016

My prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.

Maureen Monteiro

July 6, 2016

God bless her!
I spent many a day watching Superman on tv and I was impressed by her acting ability!
She and the whole cast of that fine series made my childhood great!
thanks so much and prayers to you & the cast!

chris cazzato

July 6, 2016

rest in peace mrs lane loved u insuperman,now u can fly without supermans help god bless

Maria

July 6, 2016

Rest In Peace. God Bless.

Colete Morlock

July 5, 2016

I was privileged to have been with Noel twice and I enjoyed the cards from her. She was such a giving lady who always made time for her fans. She was so easy to talk to and I loved her charm and wit. We miss you but now you are reunited with George, Jack, John and Bob. RIP Noel until we see you once more.

Brad Cross

July 5, 2016

She was a beautiful woman and a great actress. God Bless you.

Wendy Blume

July 5, 2016

RIP you were such a sweetheart.

Linda K. Taylor

July 5, 2016

To Noel Neill known as Lois Lane you leave us with so many good memories. Gone But Will Never Be Forgotten RIP.

Rob Lowe

July 5, 2016

Noel Neill was a class act who represented a major part of American culture during the 1950's. Condolences to her friends and family.

Dennis Crump Sr

July 5, 2016

We are brokenhearted but thank you for the time you spent with us.

J C

July 5, 2016

My thoughts and prayers are with friends and fans of Noel Neill. May she rest in peace.

July 5, 2016

May you rest in peace. Thank you for such fond memories.

Artemus Flagg

July 5, 2016

My most sincerest and heartfelt condolences go out to the immediate and extended family of Ms. Noel Neill. I always enjoyed waking up early on Saturday mornings and watching the Adventures of Superman. Ms. Neill was great as Lois Lane and I always wanted Lois Lane and Clark Kent to fall in love. She was very talented, had the looks and definitely in the right place at the right time (even though she apparently worked hard to earn accolades in stage, screen, and journalism). "Excellence is to do a common thing in an uncommon way" (Booker T. Washington). Respectfully submitted by:
Artemus Flagg, Ph. D., LPC of Charlotte, NC.

Marvin Williams

July 5, 2016

To the family of Miss Neill I say thank you for sharing her with the world. Rest In Peace beautiful lady, you are and always will be the true Lois Lane.

July 5, 2016

Rest in peace.

DEBORAH ABERNATHY

July 5, 2016

She touched the lives of so many,I always loved "Superman" and loved the way"Lois Lane" did what she had to do to get her story....she was admired by so many....Bless her and her family! She definitely was an inspiration to many of us and was such a good example for us kids growing up back then.

Mike Dugan

July 5, 2016

Growing up in the 1950's I was lucky enough to see the Superman series many times.

Many kids idolized Ms Neill and we were oh so lucky to have a wonderful TV show.

You will be remembered in my daily prayers.

Peace.

Reeb Zee

July 5, 2016

She was the best Lois Lane. RIP Ms. Neill.

July 5, 2016

Noel,
That you went on tour in the 1970s was one thing, but that you gave some of us fans a chance to "act" with you on stage from a Superman script-- that put you light years ahead of the rest that were just on tour to sell their autographs.
-30-
david lomazoff

Randy and Denise Hill

July 5, 2016

A true role model for all women.

July 5, 2016

Goodbye Lois. Say hello to Clark, Jimmy and the "Chief".

Carolyn Murray

July 5, 2016

To The Family,
So very sorry to hear of Ms. Neill's passing; sending my heartfelt condolences to her family at this time of bereavement. I truly enjoyed & still enjoy (reruns) of the Superman series in which she portrayed "Lois Lane". They all are in the sweet clouds above sharing their wonderful memories, may she rest in eternal peace.

Glen Hausfeld

July 5, 2016

Peace.

July 5, 2016

So sorry for your loss. May these words from Our heavenly Father bring you comfort. Jeremiah 29:11,12.

July 5, 2016

So sorry for your loss. What a good long life Noel enjoyed. So many cannot say the same. She was one of those the Bible call especially strong. Ps. 90:10

Aaron V.

July 5, 2016

Noel Neill, you were an excellent actress in Superman. I really loved the part you played, and I just fell for your beauty. You were areal "HOTTIE" for the times. Rest in Peace.

CC

July 5, 2016

May the God of tender affection and comfort continue comforting the Family. My
Sincere condolences to each of you.
James 5:9

July 5, 2016

MAY HER KIND DEEDS ALWAYS BE CHERISHED. HEBREWS 6:9,10

July 5, 2016

Jeremias .29.11.jehova tiene pensamientos de paz para la humanudad y muy pronto los cumplira

July 5, 2016

I am sorry for your loss. This verse has always brought me comfort, Psalms 20:2..."May he (God) send you help from his holy place and sustain from Zion."

July 5, 2016

May the god of all comfort help you in this hard time.

dean kuykendal

July 5, 2016

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

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December 7, 2016

Alan Meserow posted to the memorial.

September 20, 2016

Chris Crowley posted to the memorial.

August 27, 2016

John Field posted to the memorial.