Mary Parker

August 28, 1918 – March 2, 1998

Fort Worth, Texas, USA

Mary Parker (born Mary Frances Roberson) was an American stage, television and screen actress/performer. Parker appeared in 17 films from 1938 to 1954 but was also known for her dance work with partner Billy Daniel. Parker (also known as "Punkins" Parker), was a protégé of Mitchell Leisen. Leisen recruited her for various projects both on and off the screen starting in 1938. She was discovered while performing at the Casa Mañana Theatre in her native Fort Worth, Texas during the Texas Centennial celebrations and given a contract with Paramount Pictures. She performed in several large budget films, and was chosen by Paramount and Max Factor Jr. as "The Real Miss America", yet her fame was short lived