JANE WITHERS — 94 YEARS OLD

Jane Withers is one of those who also started as a young artist in show business. She was only three years old when she hit her peak, which later brought her recognition with a Young Artist Former Child Star Lifetime Achievement Award for her contributions in the film and TV industry in the ’30s and ’40s. When Withers finally matured in the field and craft, she became known for her portrayal of Josephine the Plumber in the TV commercial Comet cleanser, spanning from the ’60s to the early ’70s. In 2002, she last appeared in the film credits for voice acting, and reprised the role in the animated film by Disney, The Hunchback of Notre Dame II.

Withers was born in Atlanta, Georgia. She was the only child of Lavinia Ruth Withers and Walter Withers. Her mother had hopes of becoming an actress in her youth. Before Jane was born, she was determined to have at least one child join the entertainment industry. Lavinia was a Sunday school teacher, while her father held Bible classes in their Presbyterian Church. As a toddler, Withers’ mother signed her up for tap dancing classes and taught her how to sing.