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Sally Kirkland
1941 - 2025
Sally Kirkland
1941 - 2025
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1941
DIED
2025
Sally Kirkland Obituary
Born October 31, 1941, in New York City, Kirkland was the daughter of Sally Kirkland (née Sarah Phinney), a noted fashion editor at Vogue and Life magazines. She trained at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and studied method acting under Lee Strasberg and others.
Kirkland's distinguished career spanned more than six decades and more than 250 screen appearances. She debuted in the New York avant-garde theatre scene and even briefly aligned with Andy Warhol's Factory in the 1960s.
Her breakout came with the 1987 independent film "Anna," in which she starred as a former European film star remaking her life in the U.S. That role earned her the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress – Drama and a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Actress.
Over the years, she took on memorable roles in films including "The Sting" (1973), "JFK" (1991), and "Bruce Almighty" (2003), as well as TV guest appearances on series such as "Roseanne," "Murder, She Wrote," "Charlie's Angels," and "Felicity." She had a 22-episode arc on "Days of Our Lives" in 1999, playing Tracey Simpson.
In recent years Kirkland contended with serious health challenges. In 2024 a friends-organized GoFundMe fundraiser was launched to support her urgent medical care, following multiple fractures in her neck, wrist, and hip, and subsequent infections. She was also diagnosed with dementia, and she entered hospice care only days before her passing.
Kirkland was generous with her time and passion, engaging in health-advocacy initiatives and teaching acting to younger performers. Her legacy is one of bold artistry, perseverance, and a commitment to craft over celebrity.
By Legacy News Staff
(Image: Harry Langdon/Getty Images)
10 Entries
ER
Yesterday
My condolences to Sally´s family and friends during this time of grief and sorrow. I hope the fond memories of a life well lived comfort you all.
Mike lubav
Yesterday
I met Sally 20 yrs ago as I stood in line at a Starbucks in Malibu. She called me over to her corner table and we began to talk. I was there visiting my cousin from Florida who was filming a documentary and that impressed her. I further was in the steel business and from the NYC area.
So was her father. She opened up to me about her career , upbringing, friends, etc. stories that were personal and extraordinary. She told me things I will never forget. She trusted me
We had spent the weekend together exhibiting her art work, acting teaching stories, her social and humanitarian causes.
Her connection with Hollywood elite was mind-blowing while in my presence during that short time.
It was an experience to meet such a great person and will forever keep her in my heart.
Toby W Gebaroff Shelton,Wasmund, Johnson, Hume, Myers, Parker.
November 12, 2025
She is with the father and the rest of all that have gone. Many including myself will continue to see her in shows and movies and will miss her for all the lives she has touched with her kind loving spirit.. I'll say she was a star indeed and she earned it by being involved with those in her business. Thank you Sally for giving and earning this life. You made a difference on screen for all those that followed behind you.. That's the truth.
Mr Jody brachman
November 12, 2025
Im good u I was writing to you to give my condolences to you and your family etc rip I loved her movies etc she seemed like a nice person I will miss her so. I would've liked to have met her. She was a great underrated actress. No rush take care
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Mark W
November 12, 2025
Miss u a lot.
RR
November 12, 2025
A great actress. Her decades long career earned her many fans from her roles on TV and in movies. Sincere condolences to the Kirkland family, so very sorry for your loss. May God be with you all in your time of loss.
Chris
November 12, 2025
I offer my sincere condolences to the family of Sally Kirkland. What a beautiful career she enjoyed. May the God of all comfort be with your family as you mourn her loss.
Joseph Smite
November 11, 2025
My condolences to your family. Sally will be remembered for her acting skills. She was a very talented actress and Sally will be remembered for the different characters she portrayed. These memories will live on in the hearts and minds of many people. May God be with your family and give you comfort.
Diana Patton
November 11, 2025
God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Faith tobin
November 11, 2025
Dear Kirkland Family my condolences´s on the loss of Sally Kirkland/she´ll surely be missed very much and may she rest in peace.best faith
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