Jean Stapleton

Jean Stapleton (born Jeanne Murray; January 19, 1923 – May 31, 2013) was an American actress. She was known for her role as Edith Bunker in the 1970 comedy show All in the Family.

Early life
Stapleton was born on January 19, 1923 in New York City, New York. She studied at Hunter College.

Marriage
Stapleton was married to William H. Putch from 1956 until his death in 1983. They had two children.

Personal life
Stapleton's brother, Jack Stapleton, was a stage actor. Her cousin is actress Betty Jane Watson. Stapleton was active in the Christian Science church.

Jean was not, as commonly believed, related to actress Maureen Stapleton.

Death and reaction
Stapleton died on May 31, 2013 in her home in New York City, New York of natural causes, aged 90. She was survived by her two children, John, a TV director, and Pamela, a TV producer.

Norman Lear said, "No one gave more profound 'how to be a human being' lessons than Jean Stapleton." Actress Roseanne Barr said that Stapleton's range was "unbelievable, deep and majestic." Co-star and BAFTA- and Oscar-nominated director and producer Rob Reiner said, "Working with her was one of the greatest experiences of my life." Sally Struthers said, "Jean lived so in the present. She was a Christian Scientist who didn't say or think a negative thing ... She was just a walking, living angel."

Her interment was at Lincoln Cemetery in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania.

The marquee lights on Broadway were dimmed for one minute on June 5, 2013 at 8 p.m. EDT to honor the memory of Stapleton.

At the 65th Primetime Emmy Awards, Rob Reiner honored the career and life of Stapleton.

Other websites

 * Archive of American Television Interview with Jean Stapleton (2000)
 * Archive of American Television Interview with Jean Stapleton (2000)
 * Archive of American Television Interview with Jean Stapleton (2000)