Mary Alice

Born:December 3, 1936

Place of Birth:Indianola, Mississippi, USA

Died:July 27, 2022

Known For:Acting

Biography

Mary Alice, a distinguished actress, was born on December 3, 1936, in Indianola, Mississippi. Her parents, Ozelar Jurnakin and Sam Smith, raised her with a strong sense of resilience and determination that would later define her career in the entertainment industry.

Before gracing the silver screen, Mary Alice dedicated her time to educating young minds in elementary schools. Her passion for the arts eventually led her to pursue a career in acting, where she honed her craft on stage before transitioning to memorable roles in iconic films such as "The Matrix Revolutions," "Awakenings," and "Malcolm X."

Beyond her impressive acting abilities, Mary Alice was known for her unwavering commitment to social causes. A proud liberal Democrat, feminist, and civil rights activist, she used her platform to advocate for equality and justice throughout her life.

In 2000, Mary Alice's contributions to the world of theater were recognized as she was inducted into the prestigious American Theater Hall of Fame. This honor solidified her legacy as a trailblazer in the entertainment industry and a beacon of inspiration for aspiring actors everywhere.

After a successful and impactful career, Mary Alice chose to retire from acting in 2005, leaving behind a body of work that continues to resonate with audiences around the world. Her performances were marked by a depth of emotion and authenticity that set her apart as a truly talented artist.

On July 27, 2022, Mary Alice passed away in Manhattan, New York City, due to natural causes. In accordance with her final wishes, she was laid to rest alongside her siblings at Oak Wood Cemetery in Chicago, Illinois, a fitting tribute to a life well-lived and a career that touched the hearts of many.

Mary Alice's legacy endures through her groundbreaking work on screen and her unwavering dedication to social justice causes. Her impact on the entertainment industry and beyond serves as a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability of art to provoke change and inspire generations to come.

Images

Filmography

Acting

The Matrix Revolutions

The Oracle

2003

The human city of Zion defends itself against the massive invasion of the machines as Neo fights to end the war at another front while also opposing the rogue Agent Smith.

Malcolm X

School Teacher

1992

A tribute to the controversial black activist and leader of the struggle for black liberation. He hit bottom during his imprisonment in the '50s, he became a Black Muslim and then a leader in the Nation of Islam. His assassination in 1965 left a legacy of self-determination and racial pride.

Awakenings

Nurse Margaret

1990

Dr. Malcolm Sayer, a shy research physician, uses an experimental drug to "awaken" the catatonic victims of a rare disease. Leonard is the first patient to receive the controversial treatment. His awakening, filled with awe and enthusiasm, proves a rebirth for Sayer too, as the exuberant patient reveals life's simple but unutterably sweet pleasures to the introverted doctor.

A Perfect World

Lottie

1993

A kidnapped boy strikes up a friendship with his captor: an escaped convict on the run from the law, headed by an honorable U.S. Marshal.

The Bonfire of the Vanities

Annie Lamb

1990

After his mistress runs over a black teen, a Wall Street hotshot sees his life unravel in the spotlight; A down-and-out reporter breaks the story and opportunists clamber to use it to their advantage.

Beat Street

Cora

1984

An aspiring DJ, from the South Bronx, and his best friend, a promoter, try to get into show business by exposing people to hip-hop music and culture.