E.J. Peaker, an actress and singer who appeared in several notable television and film productions, died in May at the age of 82. Her husband, Scott Rosen, confirmed that she passed away from Alzheimer’s disease at her home in Las Vegas.
Peaker’s career gained significant momentum in 1968. That year, she completed her big-screen debut in 20th Century Fox’s film adaptation of Hello, Dolly!, playing Minnie Fay, the assistant to a hat shop owner. Simultaneously, she began work on That’s Life, an innovative musical comedy series for ABC. The hourlong program was created by Marvin Marx, a former writer-producer for The Honeymooners. The show starred Robert Morse as a junior executive and Peaker as Gloria Quigley, a salesgirl, and followed their relationship from initial meeting through marriage and parenthood. That’s Life incorporated songs, dances, comedy sketches, and appearances by prominent guest stars including George Burns, Ethel Merman, and Liza Minnelli. Despite critical acclaim, the series concluded after a single season of 26 episodes.
Born Edra Jeanne Peaker in Tulsa, Oklahoma, she grew up in Pueblo, Colorado, and later pursued theatrical training. Before her breakout year, she appeared in the road company of Bye Bye Birdie and understudied in the original Broadway production of Barefoot in the Park. Her early television credits included appearances on Route 66 and roles in series such as Occasional Wife, That Girl, and The Flying Nun.
Following the cancellation of That’s Life, Peaker maintained steady work in television, appearing on numerous shows throughout the 1970s and 1980s, including The Odd Couple, Night Gallery, and Charlie’s Angels. She made multiple appearances on The Tonight Show and participated in game shows. Among her later credits was a 2001 television film about Gilligan’s Island. Beyond entertainment, Peaker was involved in charitable efforts, particularly assisting homeless populations in Encino, and helped raise substantial funds for various causes throughout her life.
Survivors include her son, David, and four of her eight siblings. A memorial service was scheduled for Aug. 22 in Pueblo.
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