FORT WORTH — May 2,2024 — Comedian Ruth Buzzi,famous for her role on “Laugh-In,” has died at the age of 88. The actress passed away on May 1st in the Fort Worth area after battling Alzheimer’s disease. Her husband, Kent Perkins, announced her death, marking the end of a celebrated career. Known as Gladys Ormphby in the enduring series, Buzzi’s contributions left an indelible mark. Further details are expected.
Ruth Buzzi, Comedy Legend of ‘Laugh-In,’ Dies at 88
Ruth Ann Buzzi, the Emmy-nominated comedian and actress celebrated for her memorable characters on “Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In,” has died at the age of 88. Buzzi, known for her hairnet-wearing, purse-wielding television persona and infectious laugh, passed away May 1 at her home in the Fort Worth area, where she had resided for more than two decades.
A Career Forged in Laughter
Buzzi’s husband, Kent Perkins, announced her death on Facebook, revealing that she had been in hospice care for several years battling Alzheimer’s disease [[2]], [[1]], [[3]].
The diminutive Buzzi rose to prominence on NBC’s “Rowan & martin’s Laugh-In,” a groundbreaking variety program that aired from 1967 to 1973. While she portrayed numerous unforgettable characters, it was the role of Gladys Ormphby, the perpetually disgruntled spinster known for delivering swift justice with her purse, that solidified her comedic legacy [[1]].
Buzzi was one of only four cast members who lasted for the entire run of “Laugh-In.”
beyond “Laugh-In,” Buzzi showcased her talents in various films and television shows,including “Night Gallery,” “The Monkees,” “That Girl,” “Sesame Street,” and “Love,American Style.”
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on july 24, 1936, in Westerly, Rhode Island, Ruth Ann Buzzi was the daughter of Rena and Angelo Buzzi. Her father was a nationally recognized stone sculptor [[2]], [[1]]. Buzzi’s passion for performance ignited in high school, where she served as a cheerleader.At 17, she enrolled in the Pasadena Playhouse, sharing classrooms with future stars like Dustin Hoffman and Gene Hackman.
Life in Texas
Buzzi married Kent Perkins in 1978, and in 2003, the couple relocated to Texas, establishing a ranch near Stephenville. They became active members of the community, and in 2017, they opened a seafood restaurant in Fort Worth called The Catch, located at 6314 Camp Bowie Blvd.
In 2022, Buzzi experienced a series of strokes, and Perkins kept fans updated on her condition via Facebook. Buzzi herself often engaged with her fans online, using her signature humor to communicate.
A Legacy of Laughter and Remembrance
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Alzheimer’s research.
Memorial services will be announced at a later date by Lacy Funeral Home in Stephenville.
