Lory Patrick, the actress who appeared in the hit Western “Tales of Wells Fargo” and numerous other TV shows in the 1960s, died January 26, 2026, in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. She was 92.
Patrick passed away peacefully, her family said. She was the widow of Dean Jones, whom she was married to for 42 years until his death in September 2015 from Parkinson’s disease at age 84.
Born Loretta Basham on April 8, 1933, in Beckley, West Virginia, Patrick completed her education at Oak Hill High School before starting a modeling career. She modeled in Detroit and New York, where she also began appearing in TV commercials. Her introduction to the entertainment world came through NBC’s game show “Split Personality,” prompting her move to Los Angeles to pursue acting.
After signing with Universal Studios in 1961, Patrick appeared on “The Loretta Young Show” and then secured her most recognizable role: playing schoolteacher Tina Swenson on “Tales of Wells Fargo.” She performed alongside Dale Robertson in 15 episodes during the show’s sixth and final season.
Outside of “Tales of Wells Fargo,” Patrick developed a substantial television resume throughout the 1960s. She guest-starred on shows such as “Bonanza,” “Wagon Train,” “Dr. Kildare,” “The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis” and “The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet,” showcasing her range during TV’s classic era.
Her film work included the 1964 movie “Surf Party” and the 1967 musical comedy “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying,” an ensemble film adapting the popular Broadway production that humorously explored American corporate life.
Patrick stepped away from acting in the late 1960s, during a period of transition in Hollywood as the studio system evolved. She continued working in entertainment as a writer, contributing episodes to “Bonanza”—significant at a time when female TV writers were still uncommon.
Her creative pursuits extended to publishing. She authored the devotional book “Hearing God” in 1993, which later earned the 2000 Excellence in Print Award, reflecting the growing importance of spiritual themes in her life after leaving acting.
In 1984, Patrick directed the stage production “St John in Exile,” which toured nationwide with her husband Dean Jones in the starring role. Its success led to a 1986 film adaptation, for which Patrick was credited as the stage director.
Patrick’s first marriage was to science fiction author Harlan Ellison. They wed and divorced in 1966, and she was the third of Ellison’s five wives. She married Jones in June 1973, becoming his second wife, and remained married to him until his death more than 40 years later.
During her marriage to Jones, Patrick participated in ministry and counseling work. Their shared dedication to faith-based pursuits shaped much of their later life together, shifting their focus from Hollywood to religious and charitable efforts.
After Jones’ death, Patrick moved from Tarzana, California, to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, to be near family. Living in Gettysburg allowed her to spend more time with her expanding family and explore creative projects outside show business.
Patrick leaves behind three children, along with eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. A memorial service is scheduled for 11 a.m. on April 25 at Mossy Living World Church in Scarbro, West Virginia.
Patrick’s career unfolded during a pivotal era in American television when Westerns dominated prime time and many actresses transitioned from modeling into screen roles. Her time on “Tales of Wells Fargo” came as classic Westerns were nearing the end of their widespread popularity.
Her move into writing for “Bonanza” placed her among the few women working behind the scenes in a heavily male-dominated TV industry. At a time when female scriptwriters faced major challenges, Patrick’s dual path as an actress and writer stood out, and her contributions to the iconic Western series reflected her deep understanding of the genre.
