Patty Maloney, whose diminutive stature belied her enormous talent, has died at 89. The actress, remembered fondly for her role in Little House on the Prairie, brought warmth and charm to every character she portrayed.
Born in 1936, Maloney’s career began in childhood, touring with circuses and carnivals before breaking into Hollywood. Her role as Alice Bates in Little House‘s final season showcased her ability to connect with audiences, while her work in The Star Wars Holiday Special and Far Out Space Nuts displayed her comedic flair.
Behind the scenes, Maloney faced personal hardships, including the loss of her husband in 1968. Yet, she persevered, continuing to act and inspire. Diagnosed with macular degeneration in 2010, she remained resilient until her passing in hospice care this March.
Her family remembers her as a trailblazer who proved that greatness comes in all sizes.
