“Grease” actress Susan Buckner has died at the age of 72

“Grease” star Susan Buckner has died at the age of 72, Fox News Digital can confirm.

“It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of Susan Buckner, best known to film audiences as the memorable, bubbly cheerleader Patty Simcox, who starred alongside John Travolta and the late Olivia Newton-John in the hit 1978 musical Grease. ” said a statement from Buckner’s family.

Buckner died peacefully on May 2nd surrounded by her loved ones.

“Rest in peace, Susan,” the statement said. “Your talent, spirit and infectious smile will live on in our hearts forever.”

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Susan Buckner starred alongside Olivia Newton-John in Grease. (CBS via Getty Images)

Her daughter Samantha Mansfield added: “She was magical. She was my best friend. And I will miss her every day. I was lucky to have such a shining mother of a mother and now I have her as an angel.”

Early in her career, Buckner landed jobs on “The Mac Davis Show,” “Sonny and Cher,” the “Telly Savalas Live Touring Show” and as a dancer.

“Grease” would make Buckner a star. She is best known for her supporting role alongside the late Olivia Newton-John.

“Do the splits, scream! Show some spirit for Old Rydell! Keep it up, Red and White! Go Rydell, fight, fight, fight!” she famously shouted in the film.

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Susan Buckner then starred in “Love Boat.” (Getty Images)

Following her success on “Grease,” Buckner went on to star in television shows such as “The Love Boat,” “BJ and the Bear,” and “The Hardy Boys/Nancy Drew Mysteries,” and starred in the ABC series “The Hardy Boys/Nancy Drew Mysteries.” ” with. “When the whistle blows.”

Buckner also appeared alongside Sharon Stone in Deadly Blessing and Police Academy 6: City Under Siege.

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Susan Buckner retired from acting to raise her two children, Adam and Samantha. (Getty Images)

The actress eventually retreated from the spotlight to raise her children; Adam and Samantha. Buckner spent her time directing children’s plays at Pinecrest Elementary School and teaching dance classes at Body and Soul Gym in Coral Gables.

“In addition to her contributions to the entertainment industry, Susan will be remembered for her kindness, generosity and unwavering commitment to positively impacting the lives of others,” the family’s statement said. “Her sparkling spirit will continue to inspire generations of artists and fans alike.”

Buckner is survived by her son Adam Josephs, her daughter Samantha Mansfield, grandchildren Oliver, Riley, Abigail and Ruby, as well as her sister Linda, her daughter-in-law Noel Josephs, her son-in-law Adam Mansfield and her longtime partner Al.

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Larry Fink of Fox News Digital contributed to this report.