(Photo by James Lemke Jr/WireImage)
Broadway and Police Academy actress Marion Ramsey has sadly passed at the age of 73.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Ramsey passed at her home in Los Angeles on Thursday morning. “Marion carried with her a kindness and permeating light that instantly filled a room upon her arrival,” her management team Roger Paul Inc. wrote in a statement. “The dimming of her light is already felt by those who knew her well.”
“We will miss her and always love her,” the statement concluded.
Ramsey is fondly remembered for her role as Officer Laverne Hooks in the Police Academy film franchise. Her first role in the franchise began in 1984 with the film Police Academy starring Steve Guttenberg, Kim Cattrall, and G.W. Bailey.
She continued in the role for many years in Police Academy 2: Their First Assignment (1985), Police Academy 3: Back in Training (1986), Police Academy 4: Citizens on Patrol (1987), Police Academy 5: Assignment: Miami Beach (1988) and Police Academy 6: City Under Siege (1989).
Ramsey is also known for her Broadway performances throughout the years. Some of her most notable roles include Hello, Dolly, and the Los Angeles production of The Little Shop of Horrors. Ramsey also appeared in the production of Miss Moffatt with Bette Davis in addition to Harold Prince’s Grind and Eubiel.
The actress was a passionate advocate for HIV and AIDS awareness. She is survived by three brothers.