Paula Kelly was born right here in Jacksonville, FL.
She was raised in Harlem. Kelly attended The Julliard School of Music and later worked in dance companies including Alvin Ailey.
She's most notably known for her role of Theresa on The Women of Brewster Place as well as an attorney on Night Court.
Kelly's former Night Court co-star Marsha Warfield tweeted about her death.
Rest in peace, Leggy Peggy.
— Marsha Warfield (@MarshaWarfield) February 9, 2020
Or, as I knew you, Betty, the Satin Doll.https://t.co/12amA8hvzf
You may remember Kelly on other TV shows as well including Good Times, Golden Girls and Sanford and Son just to name a few.
According to Broadway World she made her Broadway debut in the 1964 musical Something More!
Rest in Power, Paula Kelly ⭐️ Known for her Emmy nominated work on Night Court & The Women of Brewster Place, Kelly made her Broadway debut in 1964 with the musical ‘Something More!’ She also appeared in The Dozens, Ovid’s Metamorphoses, & Sophisticated Ladies on Broadway. pic.twitter.com/3ia8kkxt94
— The Leading Player’s Club (@BroadwayBlack) February 9, 2020
No word just yet on a cause of death.
Paula Kelly is survived by one child. Her husband passed away in 1990.