Hollywood is remembering one of the familiar faces from television’s golden era. The actress and former model passed away peacefully on January 26 at the age of 92 at her home in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, surrounded by loved ones. Born Loretta Basham on April 8, 1933, in Beckley, West Virginia, she began her career in modeling after high school, working in both Detroit and New York. Early in her journey, a producer reportedly told her that models rarely succeeded as actresses, but the comment only strengthened her resolve. Determined to pursue her dream, she moved to Los Angeles to build a career in film and television.
Her determination quickly led to opportunity. In the early 1960s, she signed with Universal Studios and secured her first television appearance within days on The Loretta Young Show. She later became widely recognized for portraying schoolteacher Tina Swenson in the final season of NBC’s Western series Tales of Wells Fargo, alongside Dale Robertson. Throughout the decade, she appeared in many popular shows, including Bonanza, Wagon Train, Dr. Kildare, The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet, and The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis. She also took part in films such as the beach-themed Surf Party and the comedy How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, building a résumé that included more than 70 television appearances.
Her work extended beyond acting. At a time when women were rarely seen behind the scenes in television, she contributed scripts to Bonanza, helping broaden opportunities for future female writers. Later, she became a columnist for a writers’ publication and authored the faith-based book Hearing God in 1993. In 1984, she directed the stage production St. John in Exile, showing her continued interest in storytelling through different creative forms. By the late 1960s, she chose to step back from on-screen work, dedicating more time to family life, faith, writing, and artistic interests.
She shared a long marriage with actor Dean Jones, known for family films such as The Love Bug and That Darn Cat!. Married in 1973, they remained together until his passing in 2015, later devoting much of their time to ministry and charitable work. Following his death, she relocated to Gettysburg to be closer to family members. Survived by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, she leaves behind both a lasting contribution to classic television and a personal legacy centered on family and service. The performer remembered by generations of viewers was Lory Patrick.
