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Phyllis Thaxter Obituary
Thaxter's daughter, Skye Aubrey, says the actress died Tuesday in Longwood, just north of Orlando, after a nine-year fight with Alzheimer's disease.
The Maine native appeared in 17 movies. Thaxter also had dozens of television roles, including a run on "Alfred Hitchcock Presents" from 1956 to 1960 and a stint on the "Alfred Hitchcock Hour" from 1963 to 1964.
Thaxter was preceded in death by her husband of 47 years, Gilbert Lea. She was also previously married to film executive James Aubrey.
Her daughter said funeral services will be private.
KYLE HIGHTOWER, Associated Press
Copyright © 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
81 Entries
Bill Horwath
October 1, 2023
Rest is Peace Ms. Thaxter. Thank you for entertaining with your acting. The first book I read as a kid was 30 Seconds over Tokyo and it has always been my favorite film. Your role in that movie was so natural and supportive, it sentimentally portrayed the struggle of a young couple during the early days of WWII and the hope for their future.
Thank You and may God Bless you!
Jo Carol Herbert
March 25, 2018
Thank you for the memories.
Ray Webster
July 20, 2014
In 1957 while working as a host in Disneyland, I had the good fortune to spend the day with Phyllis and her children e4scorting them through the park and having lunch. She was beautiful, warm and friendly and we had a great time. Shortly after her visit I received a letter from her husband Mr. Aubrey, thanking me for the wonderful time they had enjoyed at the park. Soon after that a package arrived at our home containing a tea pot which matched the decore of our home, early American, from someone unnamed. I have always assumed it was from Phillis.
Jo anne Fabiano
December 8, 2012
I had the honor of being Phyiss Thaxter's hairdresser when she first moved to Vero Beach Florida.What a wonderful and warm person she was to me.
How you can show support
September 4, 2012
Phyllis Thaxter's great performance as
Van Johnson's wife in"Thirty Seconds Over
Tokyo" is well-remembered by anyone who
has seen that film. As Mrs. Ted Lawson
her wonderful rapport with Mr. Johnson
who played the heroic Ted Lawson is one
of the most memorable performances of
the WWII era. If her daughter would
please contact us at: hfshaffner@yanoo
.com we have information for Ms. Aubrey
that we believe she will want to know.
Thank you, Phyllis Thaxter for the joy
you brought us, and still bring us in
your many fine films.Henry & Bobbie
Shaffner.
T B
August 20, 2012
Perhaps gone, but NEVER forgotten. God Bless
August 18, 2012
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Dennis Franko
August 18, 2012
We always enjoyed her films, especially her gentile voice & appearance. Our sincere sympathy & condolences to Phyllis' family & fans.
Lynda & Dennis Franko
Jack Lambke
August 18, 2012
I am sorry to learn of your Mother's passing. She was real favorite of mine, always visulaizing her as an ideal mother. A naturally beautioful woman.
Had I know where she lived, I would have tried to visit, as I was in Casselberry for 22 years.
My prayers are with you.
KEN&MARY O'DANIEL
August 18, 2012
WE ARE SENDING OUR LOVE,PRAYERS,&CONDOLENCES TO THE THAXTER FAMILY,FRIENDS,FANS,&ALL WHO KNEW PHYLLIS.
Jan
August 18, 2012
Every single person signing this has already said my sentiments. Phyllis was one special actress. The new ones today could learn a lot from this lady. Her acting and her personal ethics.
Larry
August 18, 2012
Very much enjoyed seeing you on Alfred Hitchcock.
May you Rest in Peace
Brunson
August 18, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Lee Fasch
August 18, 2012
As a young lad, I was deeply impressed with her role in "Thirty seconds over Tokyo" as a young bride with her husband, Van Johnson seeking a little time together before he was to be shipped overseas ! Condolences to your family. RIP Phyllis Thaxter...
Marti Donato
August 18, 2012
All the BEST of the actors and actresses of the bygone era are leaving us. They were the greats.
Tina S
August 18, 2012
I well remember the soft kind consoling voice of Ms Thaxter in the movies, may the family find confort in the God of all comfort in the days ahead Ish 65:17
August 17, 2012
I remember that sweet, pretty face. R.I.P.
Apollonia Corleone
August 17, 2012
A wonderful, talented actress with no scandals attached to her name - how refreshing! I enjoy the old "Alfred Hitchcock Presents" shows starring Miss Thaxter the most. I will pray for her soul and her family's peace of mind.
JOHN O. GOFF
August 17, 2012
I WAS SADDENED TO LEARN OF THE PASSING OF A VERY BEAUTIFUL AND TALENTED ACTRESS,PHYLLIS THAXTER.
I HAVE BEEN WATCHING PHYLLIS SINCE THE EARLY 40'S,
THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY HAS LOST ANOTHER GREAT. MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO HER FAMILY AND FRIENDS. "A LIFE THAT TOUCHES THE HEARTS
OF OTHERS GOES ON FOREVER" GOD BLESS YOU PHYLLIS
AND A JOB WELL DONE,
Diane Haynes
August 17, 2012
God keep you, Sky. I remember her so well! From a fan in New Orleans/Metairie Love,
ER
August 17, 2012
Another warm and classy 1940's era actress is gone but not before leaving us with wonderful memories of her performances. Thank you, Ms. Thaxter.
Glenda Ford
August 17, 2012
My condolences to the family during this most difficult time. God assures us that if we draw close to him, he will draw close to us. May your memories bring you comfort. James 4:8.
August 17, 2012
To Phyllis Thaxter's Family: She was a real lady with outstanding talents. May you be surrounded by love during this very difficult time. A Fan
Carol Taylor
August 17, 2012
May God keep this family in His loving arms
Carol Taylor
August 17, 2012
Maybe God keep this family in His loving arms
Ms "GG" Bigrigg
August 17, 2012
To Phyllis Thaxter's family my
heartfelt condolences on her passing.
I thoroughly enjoyed all the wonderful work she did in all the projects she was involved.
May she rest in peace.
Sincerely,
GG Bigrigg/a fan
Shirley Ryan
August 17, 2012
A true Star - she was in so many movies during the 1940s and 1950s - best remembered was 30 Seconds over Tokyo, she played the wife of Van Johnson a wounded pilot.
Loved her soft voice and gentle ways. She will be remembered.
Carol J
August 17, 2012
I saw Ms Thaxter on an installment of Twightt Zone (Young Mans Fancy)she was great.Rest In Peace,I will be praying for your family
beemer
August 17, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this time of loss.
Kathleen Butler
August 17, 2012
I remember in several movies and always thought you were natural as Clark Kent's mother in Superman. Now you and Christopher Reeve can compare notes as to how the movie could have been done in other ways.
Betty Wendell
August 17, 2012
Such a loss to the entertainment world. I never saw SUPERMAN, but have seen most of her other work. I am 85 so know I have been around to enjoy her. She could always bring a tear to my eye.
Wes
August 17, 2012
God bless you for all the times you took us away from the daily struggle. God speed.
August 17, 2012
What a beloved person she seemed to be. to the family, rely on Gods strength to get you thru this time. For he will be your refuge.(Psalms 46:1)
Tom O'Donnell
August 17, 2012
I do not remember her as Superman's mother. I will always think of her as Van Johnson's sweet wife in "30 Seconds Over Tokyo." What a wonderful actress and, I believe, a beautiful human being.
May she rest in peace.
August 17, 2012
He Will Raise You Up On Eagle's Wings,
Bear You On The Breath Of Dawn,
Make You To Shine Like The Sun,
And Hold You In The Palm Of His Hand
An Old Friend
Les Breese
August 17, 2012
Phyllis Thaxter had such a natural, unaffected acting style...whenever she appeared in a film, we could be sure of a fine, skillful, and honest portrayal. She always struck me as a gentle and sincere lady who brought her genuine personality to the characters that she portrayed.
Andy
August 17, 2012
To the Family: May your mother's blessed memory bring you comfort for all time. Condolences to all who loved her.
B'shalom.
August 17, 2012
Thank you for all that you have left us ~ prayers to your family and loved ones.
Mary Ann Seward
August 17, 2012
Rest quietly now .. you are loved and admired. Thank you for sharing your God-given talents with the rest of us.
Ray Coughlin
August 17, 2012
Always enjoyed her work.
Carol Anne Strickland
August 17, 2012
What a lovely lady and actress. I loved her performances...
Suzan Castor
August 17, 2012
My condolences to the family. I worked for Mr. Lea's company in Portland in the '70's, and the employees so enjoyed Miss Thaxter's occasional visits. She was kind and gracious - a great talent.
Pam Orr
August 17, 2012
I loved her in "Thirty Seconds over Tokyo" with Van Johnson. They really were an ideal movie couple! I wish her family peace and comfort in the days ahead!
karen walker
August 17, 2012
Bless you phyllis,a real classy lady may you be without pain now...karen
August 17, 2012
To Phyllis Thaxter's family:
May God give you peace, strength and comfort during the coming days ahead.
Praying for you in Alabama.
Douglas Shingleton
August 17, 2012
She was as beautiful as a woman could be in the movie "Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo" Those twinkling eyes did it for me.
August 16, 2012
i loved watching her on alfred hitchcock.. i was surprise to find she was clark kent's mom.. wow clark and both movie parents are gone.. rest in peace all three of you..
Jack Hartman
August 16, 2012
One hell of a gal
Jack Hartman
Cathy Porter
August 16, 2012
You were a great in the rolls you played. RIP
Jo Drinkhahn
August 16, 2012
Saw the obituary on the internet tonight. So sorry for the loss of your mom and sorry to hear that she had Alzheimer's . Now she can be at peace.
Debi Ottiger
August 16, 2012
My husband and I love vintage TV & movies and your mother was wonderful in everything she did! My mother too battled Alzheimer's. Your mother is at peace now along with mine. Bless you!
PAUL
August 16, 2012
SPLENDID ACTRESS...SUCH TALENT HARD TO FIND IN HOLLYWOOD THESE DAYS. SO TALENTED, AND SHE WILL BE MISSED.
Thea Washington
August 16, 2012
Loved her work on Alfred Hithcock Theatre.
charles shea
August 16, 2012
THANK YOU FOR SHARING ALL OF YOUR WONDERFUL TALENTS WITH THE REST OF US AND FOR THE WONDERFUL MEMORIES.
August 16, 2012
You were such a wonderful actress, one who managed to bridge the gap between lead and support actress, often in the same film.
Only someone with real talent could manage such a feat so effortlessly.
Rest well Ms Thaxter
Allen J. Duffis
Editor
The Conservative Independent
Justin
August 16, 2012
I will always remember Ms. Thaxter's work as Ma Kent, along with Jeff East and Glenn Ford. Their scenes were classic gems of the Superman films. Rest in peace.
August 16, 2012
You have my deepest sympathy. May good memories provide solace for your family during this challenging time; and may God provide you with the assurance that you will see your loved one again in Paradise. John 17:3
Sheila Smith
August 16, 2012
A wonderful actress. Rest at Peace Phyllis.
August 16, 2012
She was a very good actress...I remember her from other roles other than Alfred Hitchcock movies...She starred opposite Van Johnson and other leading men...Quite a few of her movies were of the WWII theme...RIP Phyllis Thaxter...Another great actress gone...but not forgotten...GJ Borcherding
Ted Bates
August 16, 2012
A beautiful actress and really enjoyable especially on Alfred Hitchcock Presents. So sorry to hear of her loss.
August 16, 2012
Phyllis was an outstanding actress. I saw her in several films during my 74 years. She portrayed a certain gentleness that really stood out
Nevel lyons spanish springs NV.
michelle plakas-kaiser
August 16, 2012
rip
Perry Yantis
August 16, 2012
Sorry to hear about Phillis Thaxter's passing.
I remember the first time I saw her in a movie was "30 Seconds Over Tokyo" and never forgot this beautiful and talented actress.
Harry Simpson
August 16, 2012
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Marc Kagan
August 16, 2012
Rest in peace my lady you brought joy, beauty and intelligence to all your films.
Amy Christner
August 16, 2012
She was beautiful, and her talent so under-rated. Here's to being at peace. I will miss you.
louise wisinski
August 16, 2012
I always enjoyed your work. RIP..sympathies to your family.
Kim Lewis
August 16, 2012
Phyllis Thaxter was one of my favorite actresses on the Alfred Hitchcock shows. Won't soon be forgotten.
Sandra Hoberg Fox
August 16, 2012
Miss Thaxter was one of my favorite actresses from the Hitchcock series. I continue to enjoy her many episodes on dvd, and hope that many wonderful memories will comfort her family at this difficult time.
Victoria&Andreas VZj
August 16, 2012
Our serene silent prayer to those of PHYLLIS & the Thaxter Family
TheScale of Heavens is full as it gets'
Circle of Life mends its long wings
written upon Christ of Angels Spiritual Journey GodBless you ~:~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Doug Laws
August 16, 2012
Your mother was a beautiful woman and a wonderful actress in any role. God bless you with healing memories.
Paulette
August 16, 2012
I truly believe your mother should be remembered for a great deal more than Superman's mother! She was in so many films and television dramas, A beautiful woman and fine actress. I could see her face when I read the obit. She will be long remembered from that area playing poignant women during wartime.
Jim Wilson
August 16, 2012
I remember her well from days gone by. Beautiful lady. May the Lord bless and confort you during this difficult time
john a. houle
August 16, 2012
loved her.seen her just the other night in 1948 movie "act of violence".she was a greast actress and a sweet person.
Mary Heibeck
August 16, 2012
I remember Phyllis well. She stood out as an excellent and memorable actress. She will be missed.
Jay Adams
August 16, 2012
She was great. My prayer's go out to the family.
August 16, 2012
Loved your Mom. God Bless you at this time. I am sure you will miss her terribly.
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