Ken Curtis was an American actor and singer known for his role as Festus Haggen on the television series Gunsmoke. Born on July 2, 1916, in Lamar, Colorado, Curtis had a remarkable career that spanned over six decades. His distinctive voice and charismatic presence made him a beloved figure in both the entertainment industry and the hearts of millions of fans worldwide. He passed away on April 28, 1991 in Fresno, California, U.S.
His fans still want to know about his personal life and wife. He was married for three time. In 1943, he tied knot with Lorraine Page and later divorced. After this marriage, he tied knot with Barbara Ford in 1952 and later divorced in 1964. At the time of his death, he was married with Torrie Ahern Connelly. They tied in 1966.
Who Was Torrie Ahern Connelly?
Torrie Ahern Connelly was born on July 31, 1929 in Salt Lake City, UT. She was born to George Daniel Ahern and Pat Huntsman Ahern Gillespie. She was the third wife of Ken Curtis. They tied knot in 1943 and remain married until his death in 1991 and he had two step-children.
Torrie Ahern Connelly Death
Torrie Ahern Connelly died November 2, 1997 at her home in Fresno. She was 85 years old at the time of her passing. She had lived a long and fulfilling life leaving behind a legacy that would be remembered by all who knew her.
Friends and family gathered to mourn the loss of a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend. The news of her passing spread quickly throughout Fresno and tributes began pouring in from all corners of the city.
Torrie Ahern Connelly Facts
- Torrie Ahern Connelly’s husband, Ken Curtis was a Republican and supported Barry Goldwater in the 1964 United States presidential election.
- On April 28, 1991, Curtis died in his sleep of a heart attack in Fresno, California.
- He appeared as cowhand Phil Jakes on the Gunsmoke season four episode, “Jayhawkers”, in 1959.
- Curtis was a son-in-law of film director John Ford, by virtue of his second marriage.
- From 1949 to 1952, he joined the Sons of the Pioneers as a lead singer.
- His first appearance as Festus was in season 8, episode 13, “Us Haggens.”