Mary Jackson

Biography

Mary Jackson, a talented character actress, left a lasting impact on both the big and small screens with her memorable performances. Born in rural Milford, Michigan, on November 22, 1910, Jackson's journey into the world of acting was a unique one. After earning a bachelor's degree from West Michigan University and briefly working as a school teacher during the Depression era, she followed her passion for theater and enrolled in a fine arts program at Michigan State University.

Jackson's career took off on the Chicago stage and in summer stock productions before she made her way to New York and Los Angeles. Despite not gaining recognition in film and television until later in life, she made a significant mark with her appearances on popular shows like "The Andy Griffith Show," "The Mary Tyler Moore Show," and "Highway to Heaven." Her versatility as an actress allowed her to portray a range of characters, often embodying ladylike small-town citizens with grace and charm.

In the 1970s, Jackson began to accumulate a diverse array of character roles, showcasing her talent in various genres. From playing nuns in films like "Airport" and "Audrey Rose" to portraying mothers in movies such as "Wild Rovers" and "Fun with Dick and Jane," she demonstrated her ability to bring depth and authenticity to her characters. Her collaborations with acclaimed actors like Jane Fonda in "Coming Home" and Steve Martin in "Leap of Faith" further solidified her reputation as a reliable and skilled character actress.

However, it was her role as "Miss Emily" Baldwin on the beloved series "The Waltons" that truly endeared Jackson to audiences. Taking over the role from Dorothy Stickney, Jackson, alongside Helen Kleeb, portrayed one of the eccentric bootlegging sisters with charm and humor. Their on-screen chemistry and memorable performances in various Walton family reunion TV movies left a lasting impression on fans of the show.

Despite retiring from acting after her final TV appearance in "A Walton Easter" in 1997, Jackson's legacy lives on through her timeless performances. Her passing in 2005 at the age of 95 due to complications from Parkinson's disease marked the end of a remarkable career that spanned decades. Mary Jackson's contributions to the world of entertainment continue to be celebrated, reminding us of the talent and dedication she brought to every role she portrayed.