New details have emerged about the death of One Day at a Time and Coach alum Shelley Fabares.
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Fabares died at age 82 on August 22, with her immediate cause of death listed as acute respiratory disease, reported People on Wednesday, September 2, citing the star’s death certificate.
The death certificate also listed primary pneumonia as a condition that resulted in her death, reported the outlet. The report noted that Fabares was diagnosed with pneumonia in the weeks before her death and later diagnosed with acute respiratory disease in the days before she died, per People.
Fabares’ family previously told People that the actress had died of pneumonia.
The actress and singer was reportedly cremated on August 28.
“To her family and friends, Shelley was a source of love, strength, laughter, and comfort,” her family said in a statement announcing her death last month. “She was a devoted wife, cherished stepmother, daughter, sister, niece, aunt, family member, and loyal friend whose warmth, generosity, humor, and grace made an enduring difference in the lives of everyone who knew her. She had a remarkable ability to make people feel welcomed, valued, and cared for.”
“For millions, Shelley was a beloved actress whose work became part of the fabric of American television and film,” the statement continued. “From her memorable role as Mary Stone on The Donna Reed Show, where she also launched a successful recording career with her number one hit, ‘Johnny Angel,’ to her appearances opposite Elvis Presley in three films, her beloved role on Coach, and her many other television and film performances, she brought talent, intelligence, and warmth to every performance. But to those closest to her, her greatest legacy was personal: the love she gave so freely, the friendships she treasured, and the family bonds she held dear.”
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The statement added, “We will remember Shelley for her kindness, loyalty, wit, courage, and beautiful spirit. We will miss her deeply – not only as a celebrated performer, but as the loving and extraordinary person she was in our everyday lives.”
Fabares’ Coach costar, Craig T. Nelson, remembered working alongside the actress in a statement to Entertainment Weekly in August, describing her as “just an extraordinary woman.”
“She was welcoming in the midst of chaos and always someone I could go to for advice and counsel, not only myself but others as well. I’ll remember you with love, Shelley Fabares,” Nelson said.
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Fabares is survived by her husband, M*A*S*H actor Mike Farrell.
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This story was originally published September 3, 2026 at 2:54 AM.