Shelley Fabares death cause revealed days after passing

The cause of death of veteran actress Shelley Fabares has been revealed days after her passing at the age of 82 in Los Angeles, California.

LOS ANGELES: The cause of death of veteran actress Shelley Fabares has been revealed days after her passing at the age of 82 in Los Angeles, California.

According to her family, Fabares died of pneumonia. Her medical history also included autoimmune hepatitis, for which she received a liver transplant in 2000.

Fabares, best known for her roles in “The Donna Reed Show” and “Coach,” died on Saturday, August 22, 2026, surrounded by her family, according to a statement released by her family.

The actress’s death was reported on Sunday, August 23, with her family later confirming that she had died following health complications.

“To her family and friends, Shelley was a source of love, strength, laughter, and comfort. She was a devoted wife, cherished stepmother, daughter, sister, niece, aunt, family member, and loyal friend whose warmth, generosity, humor, and grace made an enduring difference in the lives of everyone who knew her,” the family said.

“She had a remarkable ability to make people feel welcomed, valued, and cared for,” the statement added.

The family continued, “For millions, Shelley was a beloved actress whose work became part of the fabric of American television and film.”

Fabares was praised for her long and successful career, which included her memorable role as Mary Stone on “The Donna Reed Show” and Christine Armstrong Fox on “Coach.” She also enjoyed success as a recording artist with her hit song “Johnny Angel.”

Her family said she approached every role with “talent, intelligence, and warmth” and left a lasting impression on audiences throughout her career.

However, her family said her greatest legacy was her personal life and the strong relationships she maintained with family and friends.

Fabares was married to actor Mike Farrell, best known for his role in “MAS*H.” She also leaves behind her stepchildren, who are mourning her loss alongside other relatives and friends.

Fabares began her acting career as a child and went on to become a familiar face on American television. Her performances across television and film earned her a lasting place in the entertainment industry.

Her family remembered her not only for her accomplishments as an actress and singer but also for the love, kindness and warmth she shared with those closest to her.

She left her husband, M*A*S*H star Mike Farrell, and stepchildren.in grief.