Jackie Loughery, who is best known as the first Miss USA and her role in Abbott and Costello, has reportedly passed away at the age of 93.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Loughery passed away on Friday, Feb. 23, in Los Angeles. Webb biographer Dan Moyer confirmed the news and stated, “She was like a mother to me and called me her kid.”
Along with her acting and beauty pageant careers, Jackie Loughery also served as Johnny Caron’s assistant on a game show. Among the films she was part of were The D.I., Pardners, Eighteen and Anxious, and A Public Affair. In her pageant career, Loughery was Miss New York USA, Miss USA, and Miss Universe. All in 1952.
Loughery was married three times. Her first marriage was with Guy Mitchell. The former was married from 1952 to 1955 before calling it quits. She married Jack Webb in 1958, but that marriage ended in 1964. She married her final husband, Jack W. Schwietzer in 1969. They stayed married until Schwietzer’s death in 2009.
Miss USA Organizers Pay Tribue to Jackie Loughery
Following the news that Jackie Loughery passed away, the Miss USA organizers took to Facebook to pay tribute.
“Jackie Loughery will always be remembered as a trailblazer in the world of beauty pageants,” the post reads. “Her grace, poise, and intelligence captivated audiences and paved the way for future generations of women to shine on the stage. As the very first Miss USA in 1952, she left an indelible mark on the pageant world and inspired countless individuals to pursue their dreams fearlessly.”
The Miss USA organizers noted that while Loughery is no longer physically present, her legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of those who were touched by her “remarkable” spirit. “Our thoughts are with her loved ones during this time, and may they find comfort in the memories of her extraordinary life. She is reunited with her fur babies that she loved so much!”
The post then concluded with, “She will forever be our first MISS USA Queen! May you rest in power and peace!”
The Miss Universe organizers also posted a special tribute to Loughery. “Jackie Loughery will be remembered as a woman who made history by being the first Miss USA to compete at the first Miss Universe competition,” the post reads. “And a trailblazer in the pageant community. May you rest in power and peace.”
Both posts featured Loughery wearing Miss USA/Universe crowns.