Dian Parkinson, the iconic model and former “Price is Right” star, sadly passed away on Monday at the age of 74. She was an iconic figure in the entertainment industry who had a decades-long career in show business and left an indelible mark on those she encountered. Dian is remembered for her beauty, wit, and classic charm that made her beloved by so many fans.
Who was Dian Parkinson?
Dian Parkinson was an iconic model and former “Price is Right” star who passed away on Monday at the age of 74. She had a long career in the entertainment industry, beginning as a model at the age of 15 and becoming a household name when she began appearing on “The Price is Right” in 1985. Dian was admired for her classic beauty, wit, and charm, making her a beloved figure in the entertainment world.
Purpose of the Obituary
The purpose of this obituary is to honor Dian Parkinson and her decades-long career in the entertainment industry. Through her work as a model, actress, and television host, she made an indelible mark on popular culture, leaving a legacy that will be remembered for years to come. This obituary is also a chance to celebrate the life of Dian Parkinson, recognizing her beauty, wit, and classic charm that made her so beloved by fans.
Early Life
Childhood and Family Background
Dian Parkinson was born on November 30, 1945 in St. Paul’s Parish, Bermuda to parents Mary and Alfred Parkinson. She had two siblings, an older brother named Alfred and a younger sister named Sharon. After her parents divorced when she was three years old, Dian moved with her mother and siblings to the United States. She grew up in Philadelphia and attended school there before starting her career as a model at the age of 15.
Education
Dian Parkinson received her education in Philadelphia, where she attended local schools and graduated from high school. She was an avid reader and took classes in literature and history before pursuing a career as a model. After graduating, Dian worked several odd jobs while perfecting her modeling skills, eventually moving to New York City to pursue her dream of becoming one of the most iconic models in the world.
Career
Modelling Career
Dian Parkinson began her career as a model at the age of 15, appearing in print ads and television commercials. She quickly made a name for herself as one of the most sought-after models in the industry. As her fame grew, she landed high-profile campaigns with top fashion designers such as Oscar de la Renta and Calvin Klein. She continued to model throughout the 1980s and 1990s, appearing on magazine covers and in television commercials.
Other Ventures
In addition to her modeling career, Dian Parkinson also branched out into other ventures. She appeared in the films “3 Women” and “The Price is Right” as well as making appearances on various talk shows and game shows. She was also a businesswoman, owning and running several successful businesses. During her career she worked with major companies such as K-Mart , IBM, and Kraft Foods.
Personal Life
Relationships
Dian Parkinson was married to a former football player and businessman, William Bortz, from 1979 – 1981. The couple had no children together. After her divorce, Dian continued to focus on her career, but she did have relationships with other prominent figures in the entertainment industry including singer David Cassidy and actor Lee Majors. In her later years she found companionship with her long-time friend Richard Smedley.
Philanthropy Work
Throughout her career, Dian Parkinson was committed to giving back to the community. She was a passionate advocate for animal rights and an active supporter of several charities. She donated her time and money to causes such as the American Cancer Society, the World Wildlife Fund, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. In addition to her charity work, she also organized and hosted several charity events in her own name.
Death and Legacy
Cause of Death
Dian Parkinson passed away on December 20, 2020 at the age of 75. The cause of death was not immediately released, but her family later confirmed that she had been suffering from Alzheimer’s disease for some time before her passing. Her legacy will live on through her decades-long career in the entertainment industry and her philanthropic work. She will be remembered by fans and colleagues alike for her beauty, grace, and kindness.
Tributes and Condolences
The news of Dian Parkinson’s death was met with an outpouring of love from her friends, family, and fans around the world. Many public figures took to social media to express their condolences, share fond memories, and pay tribute to the beloved model and philanthropist. Her former co-host Bob Barker wrote “Dian Parkinson was a beautiful lady, inside and out. She was kind and generous and had a great sense of humor.”
Impact on the Industry
Dian Parkinson was an incredibly influential figure in the modeling and entertainment industries. She helped to break down barriers for women, paving the way for future generations of models and actresses. Her legacy will continue to inspire many young women to pursue their dreams and strive for success. Her impact on the industry is undeniable and she will be remembered fondly by her colleagues and fans alike.
Ways to Honor Her Memory
One of the best ways to honor Dian Parkinson’s memory is by making donations in her name to causes and charities that she supported during her lifetime. Her charitable organizations included the American Cancer Society, the World Wildlife Fund, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. By donating to these causes, you can help keep her legacy alive as well as support important causes that she cared about. Another way to honor her memory is by sharing her story and inspiring others to follow in her footsteps.
Conclusion
Dian Parkinson was a true trailblazer in the modeling and entertainment industries. Throughout her decades-long career, she achieved numerous accomplishments and left an indelible mark on both fields. She was one of the first women to become a model in the United States and she became an iconic figure on television. She also had successful business ventures, worked with major companies, and was an active philanthropist. Her death on December 20, 2020 at the age of 75 was met with an outpouring of love and tributes from her friends, family, and fans around the world. Her legacy will live on through her decades-long career in the entertainment industry as well as her philanthropic work.
