Shelby Grant 1936 – 2011

Shelby Grant (1936 – 2011): successfully became a contract player for 20th Century Fox and appeared in such classic films as the Fantastic Voyage (1966), Our Man Flint (1966), The Witchmaker (1969), and the Pleasure Seekers (1964).

(1936 – 2011) Shelby Grant Everett passed away June 25, 2011, at the age of 74 from a sudden brain aneurysm.

Shelby was born in Oklahoma on Oct. 19, 1936, the daughter of Lawrence and Mae Thompson. After graduating from Oklahoma University, she moved to Los Angeles to pursue an acting career. She successfully became a contract player for 20th Century Fox and appeared in such classic films as the Fantastic Voyage (1966), Our Man Flint (1966), The Witchmaker (1969), and the Pleasure Seekers (1964). Shelby also had a long list of independent TV appearances on top rated shows like Marcus Welby, M.D., Batman, Bonanza, and multiple appearances on her husband Chad Everett’s series Medical Center.

Shelby married actor Chad Everett on May 22, 1966, in Tucson, Ariz., while he was on location filming Return of The Gunfighter. Their daughters, Kate Thorp and Shannon Everett, graduated and attended San Diego State University and University Santa Barbara respectively. Shelby and Chad enjoyed a life of sport and philanthropy together.

Shelby played a mean game of tennis and equally fierce game of Bridge. She was very athletic and enjoyed Pilates, healthy food, and a nice Chardonnay. Shelby has been instrumental in the efforts to provide resources to US Soldiers and for saving the lives of children. Her relentless efforts allowed these children to receive life saving surgeries through the Gift of Life and Loma Linda Hospital. Chad and Shelby have personally sponsored more than 20 heart surgeries for needy children through The Gift of Life. Shelby and Chad recently celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary.

Shelby is survived by her husband, Chad Everett; her daughters, Katherine Thorp, from San Rafael, Calif., and Shannon Everett, from Carlsbad, Calif.; her brother, James L. Thompson, from Chula Vista, Calif. Shelby had six grandchildren, Lauren Thorp, Connor Thorp, and Zachary Thorp, all from San Rafael, Calif., and Tosh Everett, Faith Everett, and Dawson Everett, all residing in Carlsbad, Calif. Shelby’s ashes are with her family in Westlake Village.

Published in Ventura County Star from June 28 to July. Legacy.