by Elizabeth Dawn

Created on: May 15, 2009

Bea Arthur made the elderly sexy. The esteemed veteran of such hit shows as Golden Girls and Maude brought grace, poise, and charisma to characters otherwise played in a senile, decrepitude way. Her no nonsense ways and defiant staunch held America captive and commanded the attention of even rebellious teens, gazing at her in admiration and wonder while idly playing with a piercing or two.

Born in 1922, her death early this year left a void in the collective hearts and souls of so many that she touched. Originally " Bernice Frankel", Bea Arthur had a successful career that spanned seven decades, including theater as well as the small screen. In addition to Emmys she won for her performances in both the Golden Girls and Maude, she lays claim to a Tony award for her portrayal of Vera Charles in the play Mame.

Two men have been privileged to become Mr. to her Mrs. Bea married first Robert Arthur, a screenwriter whose surname she chose to keep. Later, this vapid vixen married Gene Saks, adopting his children along with the union. Living mostly in the greater Los Angeles area, she also had an apartment in New York that she frequented from time to time.

True to her nature, Bea Arthur was an avid women rights supporter. She is credited for being a LGBT icon, donating time and money through various charities and organizations helping her many favored causes. As well as the aforementioned, she was also a strong advocate for the elderly, including research and promoting awareness of elderly abuse. The PETA organization also recognizes her effort in preventing cruelty to animal campaigns.

Upon leaving Golden Girls, she made a few brief appearances to the retooled Golden Palace before resuming her constant hard work in television, Broadway, and charities. Retirement not on her list of projects, Bea decided instead to dabble in a variety of opportunities that Hollywood had to offer. She made cameos in such shows as Malcom in the Middle, Curb Your Enthusiasm, and even lent her voice to an episode of the adult cartoon Futurama, an episode which was later nominated for an Emmy.

After a long bout with cancer, Bea Arthur passed away on April 25, 2009. Mourners grieved the loss of such a talented actress, giver, and extraordinary woman. The remaining survivors of Golden Girls, Rue McClanahan and Betty White gave a memorial eulogy on Larry King Live, expressing the thoughts of Americans everywhere on a woman who will be missed and admired for the life she led.

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