Buckner, who stepped into the role of the perky Rydell High cheerleader at the age of 25, enchanted audiences alongside Hollywood legends John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John. Her spirited performance as Simcox, complete with the iconic cheer urging on the school's sports teams, left an indelible mark on fans worldwide.
Following her breakout role in "Grease," Buckner continued to grace both the big and small screens with her talent. She made memorable guest appearances on popular television shows such as "The Love Boat," "B.J and the Bear," and "The Hardy Boys/Nancy Drew Mysteries." Additionally, she co-starred in the ABC series "When the Whistle Blows," showcasing her versatility as an actor.
In the realm of cinema, Buckner showcased her range by appearing in diverse roles. She starred in Wes Craven's chilling 1981 horror film "Deadly Blessing," where she shared the screen with Sharon Stone, and later brought her comedic chops to the 1989 sequel "Police Academy 6: City Under Siege."
However, Buckner's contributions extended beyond acting. In the latter part of her life, she dedicated herself to teaching and mentoring aspiring performers. She directed numerous children's theater productions at Pinecrest Elementary School and led dance classes at Body and Soul Gym in Coral Gables, Florida, imparting her knowledge and passion for the arts to future generations.
Born on January 28, 1952, in Seattle, Washington, Buckner's journey to stardom began with her success as a beauty queen. Crowned Miss Washington in 1971, she represented her state with grace and poise in the Miss America pageant the following year. Her experience as a beauty queen paved the way for her to join Dean Martin's Golddiggers and later become part of the all-girl group Fantasy.
Buckner's talents transcended acting and singing; she also showcased her skills as a dancer and synchronized swimmer on various television programs, including "The Mac Davis Show," "Sonny and Cher," and the "Telly Savalas Live Touring Show." Her versatility and charisma shone through in every performance, earning her admiration from audiences and peers alike.
Beyond her professional achievements, Buckner was a beloved mother, sister, and partner. She is survived by her two children, son Adam Josephs and daughter Samantha Mansfield, as well as her four grandchildren. Her sister Linda, daughter-in-law, son-in-law, and longtime partner Al mourn her passing, remembering her as a cherished presence in their lives.
As news of Buckner's passing spreads, tributes pour in from fans and colleagues, honoring her contributions to the entertainment industry and celebrating the lasting impact of her work. Though she may have departed this world, Susan Buckner's legacy as a talented actor, teacher, and mentor will continue to inspire generations to come, ensuring that her spirit lives on in the hearts of those who knew and admired her.