Along with Tina Louise's Ginger Grant, you formed a significant half of Gilligan Island's Betty and Veronica, making Mary Ann Summers one of television's most beloved and recognizable figures.
That's because you were sweet and fun, curvy and magnetic: a living, breathing vision who filled many a lonely boy's head with a fervent peace and contentment. (I know--I was one.)
Your charitable work through your organization, Wishing Wells Collections, blanketed many in need, and fans always appreciated the chance to cross your path, for they knew you guaranteed them sincere kindness and warmth.
Your fans were so impassioned, in fact, that they made it a point to seek you out in programs beyond Gilligan, including such legendary westerns as Bonanza, Wagon Train, Laramie, Lawman, Cheyenne and Tales of Wells Fargo: wonderful shows made all the more wonderful by your special spirit.
Thank you for all the endearing memories, Ms. Wells; may you now soar among the sweet seraphs, where your beauty shall shine for all Eternity.
