Pauline Collins, Actress, Dies at 85 After Parkinson’s Battle
Pauline Collins, beloved for her role as Shirley Valentine, passed away peacefully at her care home in Highgate, London. She was 85 years old and had been living with Parkinson’s disease for several years.
Family Tribute
“We are heartbroken to announce that Pauline Collins died peacefully at her care home in Highgate this week, having endured Parkinson’s for several years. She was surrounded by her family.”
Legacy and Career
Collins was celebrated for her dynamic presence on stage and screen, playing an array of characters including politicians, mothers, and queens. Most famously, she brought to life the strong-willed and vivacious Shirley Valentine, a role that became iconic and deeply associated with her.
Personal Life and Character
“Pauline was so many things to so many people, playing a variety of roles in her life. A bright, sparky, witty presence on stage and screen.”
More than her public roles, she was dearly loved as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Warm, funny, generous, and thoughtful, she was known for her unwavering support and kindness.
“More than anything, though, she was our loving mum, our wonderful grandma and great-grandma. Warm, funny, generous, thoughtful, wise, she was always there for us. And she was John (Alderton)’s life-long love. A partner, work collaborator, and wife of 56 years.”
Gratitude to Caregivers
Her family expressed deep appreciation for the dedicated caregivers who looked after Collins with compassion and respect during her illness.
“We particularly want to thank her carers: angels who looked after her with dignity, compassion, and most of all love. She could not have had a more peaceful goodbye.”
Author’s Summary
Pauline Collins’s exceptional career and loving spirit left a lasting impact; she is remembered not only as an iconic actress but as a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother.