Fans left ‘heartbroken’ following the passing of beloved Grease star Susan Buckner

Susan Buckner, the beloved actress best known for her role as the vivacious cheerleader Patty Simcox in the iconic 1978 film Grease, has sadly passed away at the age of 72.

Buckner passed away peacefully on May 2, “surrounded by loved ones”, as confirmed by her publicist Melissa Berthier.

“The light she brought into every room will be missed forever,” Buckner’s daughter, Samantha Mansfield, told PEOPLE.

“She was magic, and I was very lucky to call her my best friend.”

Born on January 28, 1952, in Seattle, Washington, Buckner emerged onto the entertainment scene with a multifaceted career that spanned beauty pageants, television, stage, and film.

Before gracing screens, Buckner claimed the title of Miss Washington in 1971 and earned a notable position as a top ten finalist in the Miss America 1972 pageant.

However, it was her foray into acting that solidified her place in Hollywood history. Best known for her portrayal of the quintessential high school cheerleader, Patty Simcox, in the iconic 1978 film Grease, alongside stars Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta, Buckner captivated audiences with her charm and presence on screen.

Following her breakout role in Grease, Buckner continued to grace both the small and big screens with her presence. Throughout the 1980s, she made memorable appearances in popular television series such as The Love Boat and showcased her versatility in films like Deadly Blessing and Deadly Friend.

Additionally, her contributions extended to television, where she showcased her talents as one of The Krofftettes on The Brady Bunch Variety Hour, captivating audiences with synchronised swimming routines.

Tributes from fans have flooded social media following her passing, highlighting Buckner’s impact on generations of viewers.

Remembering Susan Buckner, who lit up the screen in Grease as vivacious cheerleader and true friend, Patty Simcox. pic.twitter.com/D6wGLIGHeR

— Grease (@GoGrease) May 8, 2024

HEARTBROKEN 💔

A #PopCulture LEGEND ⭐️
whose iconic #cheerleader literally
POLARIZED PLAYGROUNDS across th’world!

⭐️ #SusanBuckner ⭐️

The definitive #PattySimcox
she stole every scene, stealing our hearts-
ensuring #GreaseIsTheWord
ALWAYS and FOREVER #RIPSusan ♥️ RT pic.twitter.com/pCljUzQLNX

— Kat Cressida (@KatCressida) May 8, 2024

RIP Susan Buckner who played Patty Simcox in Grease 💔🕊 pic.twitter.com/LLgdhWuU3m

— ClassicActorsOfHollywood (@CAOH110291) May 7, 2024

Oh, no.. RIP Susan Buckner AKA Patty Simcox “The Bad Seed Of Rydell High” #Grease pic.twitter.com/OGFz7DOgte

— Shae Roberts 🌊 (@shaedreams1) May 7, 2024

RIP #SusanBuckner, 72, aka #PattySimcox in #GREASE. My daughter has met a bunch of the cast over the years & Susan was a total sweetheart, even joking with her that she should ditch the Pink Ladies jacket and try out for cheerleading instead. “It’s the most, to say the least!”… pic.twitter.com/a6HlhobP14

— Paul J. Coyne, A.C.E (@Paul_J_Coyne) May 8, 2024

Buckner is survived by her son, Adam Josephs, her daughter, Samantha Mansfield, and her sister, Linda.

Additionally, she leaves behind a legacy carried on by her four beloved grandchildren, her daughter-in-law, her son-in-law, and her longtime partner, Al.