Susan Buckner, the actress from Seattle, Washington who gained fame for her role as Patty Simcox, the cheerleader in the 1978 classic musical “Grease,” has died at 72. Melissa Berthier, a spokesperson for the Buckner family, revealed that the actress died peacefully on May 2, surrounded by her family. The cause of her death was not disclosed.
In a statement, Buckner’s daughter, Samantha Mansfield, voiced her deep bond with her mother, calling her a source of “magic” and her “best friend.” Mansfield acknowledged that her mother’s death leaves an absence not only within their family but also among those who were touched by Buckner’s lively presence.
Born in 1952, Buckner’s life in the spotlight began with the pageant circuit when she won the title of Miss Washington in 1971 and represented the state in the Miss America pageant the following year. This experience paved her path to the entertainment industry, where she became a member of The Golddiggers, a renowned all-female singing and dancing group on “The Dean Martin Show.”
Buckner’s career in television grew with roles on notable shows such as “The Mac Davis Show,” “Sonny and Cher,” and “The Brady Bunch Variety Hour.” However, it was her role in “Grease” that cemented her place in American pop culture. As Patty Simcox, Buckner’s portrayal epitomized high school spirit and left a memorable impression on audiences with her character’s boundless enthusiasm.
While Buckner continued to act into the 1980s, with roles in TV series like “The Love Boat” and “The Hardy Boys/Nancy Drew Mysteries,” as well as in films including “Police Academy 6: City Under Siege,” “Grease” remained her most notable work in the industry.
Buckner later chose to step back from acting to focus on her family and raise her two children. She also directed children’s theater at an elementary school in Florida and taught dance at a gym in Coral Gables, sharing her love for dance.
Buckner is survived by her extensive and close-knit family, including her daughter Samantha Mansfield, son Adam Josephs, grandchildren, and her longtime partner, Al.