Remembering Susan Buckner: The Enduring Legacy of Grease’s Patty Simcox
Susan Buckner, the talented actress renowned for her portrayal of Patty Simcox, the vivacious cheerleader in the iconic 1978 musical comedy Grease, has passed away at the age of 72.
On May 2, surrounded by her loved ones, Susan peacefully departed, leaving behind a legacy cherished by many. Melissa Berthier, a representative for the family, shared that the exact cause of her demise remains undisclosed.
“Susan’s radiance illuminated every space she entered, a light that will be sorely missed,” her daughter, Samantha Mansfield, expressed to PEOPLE. She was not just my mother but my closest confidant, a truly magical presence.”
Born in 1952 in the vibrant city of Seattle, Susan Buckner first captivated audiences with her beauty and grace, clinching the title of Miss Washington in 1971, followed by her representation of the state in the esteemed Miss America pageant the ensuing year.
Transitioning into the realm of entertainment, Buckner joined The Golddiggers, an ensemble of talented female performers showcased on The Dean Martin Show. Her versatility shone through various television appearances, including The Mac Davis Show, Sonny and Cher, and The Brady Bunch Variety Hour.
However, it was her role as Patty Simcox in Grease that etched her name into the annals of cinematic history. Her portrayal of the bubbly cheerleader sharing the screen with Olivia Newton-John resonated deeply with audiences nationwide. Her spirited chants echoing the halls of Rydell High School endeared her to fans: “Do the splits, give a yell! Show a little spirit for Old Rydell! Way to go, red and white! Go Rydell, fight, fight, fight!”
Despite her continued presence in the entertainment industry throughout the 1980s, Grease remained the pinnacle of her career.
Following appearances in popular shows like The Love Boat and The Hardy Boys/Nancy Drew Mysteries, as well as roles in films like Police Academy 6: City Under Siege, Buckner chose to prioritize her family, stepping away from the limelight to nurture her two children.
Later in life, she found fulfillment in directing children’s theater at a Florida elementary school and imparting her passion for dance as an instructor in Coral Gables.
Susan Buckner leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter, survived by her daughter Samantha Mansfield, son Adam Josephs, grandchildren Oliver, Riley, Abigail, and Ruby, sister Linda, daughter-in-law Noel Josephs, son-in-law Adam Mansfield, and her devoted partner, Al.