Gloria Winters-Vernon
by Fred T. Beeman

We're saddened to learn of the August 14th passing (from complications due to pneumonia) of Gloria Winters-Vernon at age 78, who was best known (and remembered) for her role of Penny King, the niece of Kirby Grant's "SKY KING" character. She was a resident of Vista, California at the time of her passing.

A Los Angeles native by birth on November 28, 1932, she began her show business career at age 15 in 1947, before landing the role for which she would become most identified.

"SKY KING," which took place in the fictional town of Grover, Arizona, was about a wealthy rancher in conmtemporary times, who assisted the county sheriff in solving crimes by utilizing his Cessna 310-B airplane, nicknamed "The Songbird." As his niece Penny on the series, Gloria inspired many a young woman to learn how to fly, as her character was also an accomplished pilot, occasionally flying her uncle's twin-engine plane.

Around five years after the show wrapped production, she became a book author with the publication of "Penny's Guide to Teenage Charm and Personality," furthering her stature as a role model and icon for teenage girls in the 1950s and 60s.

While the series was filming, she dated Dean Vernon, a sound engineer on the crew, and married him. He passed away in 2001.

Gloria, who worked under her maiden name, retired from acting shortly after the 1951-62 series ended, but remained a close friend with series star Kirby Grant, until his passing in 1985.

Our condolences are offered to all of her friends, fans, and surviving family.