Hollywood is saying goodbye to a familiar face from television’s golden era. Lory Patrick, the actress and former model known for her many appearances in classic 1960s television, has died at 92. She passed away peacefully on January 26 at her home in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, surrounded by family. Born Loretta Basham on April 8, 1933, in Beckley, West Virginia, Patrick began her career in modeling before moving to New York, where her striking looks drew attention. Early on, a producer once told her, “Pretty girls can’t act.”

Rather than discourage her, the remark fueled her determination. She moved to Los Angeles to pursue acting seriously — and quickly succeeded. In the early 1960s, she signed with Universal Studios and soon landed her first television role on The Loretta Young Show. She later became known as teacher Tina Swenson in NBC’s Tales of Wells Fargo, appearing alongside Dale Robertson.

Over the decade, she built an impressive résumé with more than 70 television appearances, including guest roles on Bonanza, Wagon Train, Dr. Kildare, and The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet. She also appeared in films such as Surf Party and How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying. Beyond acting, Patrick wrote episodes for Bonanza, became a columnist, and authored the faith-centered book Hearing God.

She was married to Disney star Dean Jones for 42 years until his death in 2015. Later, she focused on family, faith, and ministry work. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, and extended family — leaving behind a legacy of creativity, resilience, and quiet devotion both on and off screen.