Eileen Brennan (Verla Eileen Regina Brennen) 
 
                          (September 3, 1932 – July 28, 2013)

(AP) – Eileen Brennan, who went from musical comedy on Broadway
to wringing laughs out of memorable characters in such films as
"Private Benjamin" and "Clue," has died.

Brennan’s managers, Jessica Moresco and Al Onorato, said she died
Sunday at home in Burbank after a battle with bladder cancer.

"Our family is so grateful for the outpouring of love and respect for
Eileen," her family said in a statement. "She was funny and caring
and truly one of a kind. Her strength and love will never be forgotten."

Brennan got her first big role on the New York stage in "Little Mary
Sunshine," a musical comedy that won her the 1960 Obie award for
best actress. Along with her "excellent singing voice," her performance
was "radiant and comic," said a New York Times review.

"Private Benjamin" brought her a supporting actress nomination for an
Oscar. She also won an Emmy for repeating her "Private Benjamin" role
in the television version and was nominated six other times for guest
roles on such shows as "Newhart," "thirtysomething," "Taxi" and "Will
& Grace."

1978