'Operation Mad Ball' actor Kathryn Crosby (90) dies
Kathryn Crosby, the renowned Hollywood actor, singer and widow of Bing Crosby, passed away on Friday evening due to natural causes at her Hillsborough, California home. She was 90 years old. The news of her demise was announced by a representative for the Crosby family. Kathryn starred in over 20 films throughout her career, including notable titles like The 7th Voyage of Sinbad, Anatomy of a Murder, Operation Mad Ball, and The Wild Party.
Crosby's early life and education
Crosby was born on November 25, 1933, in Houston, Texas. She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin and began her career in 1953 while writing a column about Hollywood for her hometown newspaper. She met Bing while conducting interviews for her column and the two married in 1957. She became a registered nurse and teacher in 1963. She is reportedly survived by her three children, Harry, Mary and Nathaniel, as well as several grandchildren.
Crosby's career and personal life
Crosby, who often performed under the stage names Kathryn Grant and Kathryn Grandstaff, was a frequent presence on Bing's Merrie Olde Christmas specials. She also hosted The Kathryn Crosby Show, a San Francisco-based talk show. After her husband's death in 1977, she appeared in several stage productions, including the 1996 Broadway revival of State Fair. Crosby was also known for hosting the charitable Crosby National Golf Tournament in Bermuda Run, North Carolina. May she rest in peace.
