Grease actress Susan Buckner, best known for playing cheerleader Patty Simcox, has died at 72.
Buckner’s publicist confirmed the news that she died in Miami and did not provide a cause of death.
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“Susan died peacefully on May 2 surrounded by loved ones,” publicist Melissa Berthier confirmed to People.
The star’s daughter Samantha Mansfield went on to tell the outlet: “The light she brought into every room will be missed forever.
“She was magic, and I was very lucky to call her my best friend.”
A former pageant star, Buckner’s big break was as Patty Simcox, the enthusiastic cheerleader at Rydell High who became friends with Olivia Newton-John’s Sandy Olsson.
Buckner took on the role at 25.
The 1978 film also starred John Travolta and Stockard Channing and went on to be the top-grossing film of the year.
She was known for yelling the school cheer: “Do the splits, give a yell! Show a little spirit for Old Rydell! Way to go, red and white! Go Rydell, fight, fight, fight!”
The film was such a hit it has been adapted into a live movie musical along with a musical that plays worldwide.
Grease UK shared a tribute for the late star on X: “Forever grateful for Susan Buckner’s unforgettable portrayal of Patty Simcox. Rest in peace to a Grease legend.”
She began her career in beauty pageants, crowned Miss Washington in 1971.
Buckner represented the state in the Miss America pageant the following year.
Pursuing dancing, the rising star went on to perform on shows including Sonny and Cher, The Mac Davis Show and the Telly Savalas Live Touring Show.
She was also a talented synchronised swimmer, performing in the 1976 show The Brady Bunch Hour.
While Grease remained her best-known role, Bucker continued her acting career, appearing in various shows, including The Hardy Boys and the Nancy Drew Mystery series.
Buckner spent the latter part of her life teaching and directing children’s theatre productions at Pinecrest Elementary School.
She was also a dance instructor at Body and Soul Gym in Coral Gables, Florida.
The actress is survived by her daughter Samantha Mansfield, son Adam Josephs, grandchildren Oliver, Riley, Abigail and Ruby as well as her sister Linda, daughter-in-law Noel Josephs, son-in-law Adam Mansfield and longtime partner Al.
