Mary Wickes

Mary Wickes (born Mary Isabella Wickenhauser; June 13, 1910 – October 22, 1995) was an American actress known for her supporting roles in movies and TV shows. With her sarcastic wit, she often portrayed prim, professional women such as secretaries, nurses, nuns, therapists, teachers, and housekeepers. Wickes was born in St. Louis, Missouri to Frank Wickenhauser and Mary Isabella Shannon. Her parents, who were theater enthusiasts, introduced her to plays at a young age. She excelled academically, skipping two grades and graduating early from Beaumont High School. She attended Washington University in St. Louis, where she was part of the debate team and the Phi Mu sorority. Wickes graduated with a double major in English literature and political science in 1930. Despite initially planning a career in law, she pursued acting and became a well-known character actress.