Pat Woodell, the actress known for playing Bobbie Jo Bradley on the 1960s series "Petticoat Junction," died Sept. 29 after a lengthy battle with breast cancer. She was 71.
Woodell, whose real name was Patricia McDade, died at her home in Fallbrook, California, her husband
Vern McDade told the Los Angeles Times.
She originated the role of Bobbie Jo, one of three teenage daughters of widow Kate Bradley on the series that debuted in 1963. She was joined by Linda Kaye Henning as Betty Jo and Jeannine Riley as Billie Jo.
"The characters are perhaps best known for their opening-credit bath in a rickety water tower, and the theme-song lyric: 'Lots of curves, you bet, even more when you get . . . to the Junction.
Petticoat Junction,'" Deadline.com's Greg Evans wrote.
"Petticoat Junction" ran until 1970, but Woodell left her role in 1965 to sing, record an album, and tour with comedian Jack Benny, according to the Times. She also appeared in several movies, including 1971's "The Big Doll House," in a role that marked a big departure from the wholesome character she played on "Petticoat Junction."
She was signed by Warner Bros. in the early 1960s and appeared in episodes of "Cheyenne," "The Gallant Men," "Hawaiian Eye," "77 Sunset Strip," and
"The Munsters," according to Variety.
Woodell left the acting business in 1973 and worked for the organization of Werner Erhard. She went on to start a business consulting firm that she retired from in 2013.
Fans shared their condolences for her passing on Twitter.
© 2025 Newsmax. All rights reserved.