She was the familiar voice behind The First Nighter Program for close to 15 years, bringing elegance and charm to audiences night after night. And, as it turns out, that same distinctive voice also brought Kanga to life in the beloved Winnie the Pooh films and cartoon shorts—yes, the very same character fans grew fond of over the years. Before she became a household name, she actually started her career way back in the 1920s, acting in silent films when the movie industry was still finding its voice. From there, she smoothly transitioned into radio, where she made regular appearances on a popular radio comedy-drama anthology series from 1936 all the way through 1953. It’s amazing to think about how her career evolved across such different mediums. She was born in Great Falls, Montana—a small town that launched the journey of someone who would eventually become such a recognizable presence in entertainment. Her legacy lives on, not just through her roles, but through the warmth and personality she infused into every performance.
She brought so many beloved Disney characters to life with her unforgettable voice, and honestly, it’s hard to imagine those roles without her. From the sweet and graceful Lady in Lady and the Tramp, all the way to the spirited Merryweather in Sleeping Beauty, she truly left her mark. Oh, and let’s not forget that adorable church mouse in Robin Hood—such a small role, yet she made it shine. Her talent was just unmatched, and she played such a key part in shaping the magic we associate with classic Disney films. She had this unique ability to connect with audiences, making every character feel real and heartfelt.