Lois Clarke: The Intimate Life of James Garner’s Wife
World-renowned Hollywood actor James Garner had a startling career spanning over six decades, gracing our screens with exemplary talent, acting prowess, and timeless charm. Best known for the hit series “The Rockford Files” and movies like “The Notebook” and “Maverick,” Garner has indeed made an indelible mark in the entertainment industry.
Yet, off the glitz and glamor of Hollywood, he led a remarkable life with his loved ones. This piece shares a deeper insight into James Garner’s wife, Lois Clarke, their children, his estimated net worth, and details about his death.
James Garner’s Beloved Wife Lois Clarke
In 1956 Garner crossed paths with Lois Josephine Fleischman Clarke at a social event. Their connection was so powerful that the couple married on August 17, 1956, within two weeks of meeting.
Throughout their marriage, Garner and Lois weathered two periods of separation. First in 1970 for three months and later in 1979.
However, their love for one another brought them back together in September 1981. According to Garner, their time apart was not due to marital discord but rather the demand of his career, especially his role in ‘The Rockford Files’ where he suffered constant physical pain and faced immense stress from the studio.
Garner admitted that his decision to leave the series in 1979 was largely due to his need to spend time and focus on his family life.
Throughout the highs and lows, James and Lois remained married until Garner’s passing in 2014, falling short of their 58th wedding anniversary by less than a month. Lois lived on until 2021, passing away on October 30.
Garner’s Children and Their Present Life
James Garner and his wife, Lois, had two daughters: Kimberly Garner, whom James adopted from Lois’s previous marriage when she was 7, and their biological daughter, Greta ‘Gigi’ Garner.
Gigi received her education from the film school at the University of Southern California, shaping her future in the entertainment industry.
After her stint as a recording artist in England and songwriter for Word Records, where she delivered three chart-topping songs in 1995, Gigi was drawn towards a career inspired by her father’s hit detective series, “The Rockford Files.”
Subsequently, Gigi honed her skills to become a licensed private investigator, leading her to write The Cop Cookbook, a remarkable concoction of recipes, rare photographs, brain teasers, and anecdotes from Hollywood’s biggest stars.
Also she further pursued a career in jewelry design and is now considered one of Hollywood’s most inventive jewelry designers. She boasts an A-list clientele, including celebrities like Penelope Cruz, Orlando Bloom, Halle Berry, and Sandra Bullock.
Gigi’s designs have also graced popular TV shows like Desperate Housewives and The O.C.
James Garner’s Estimated Net Worth: Over $20 Million
At his death, Garner had an estimated net worth of $20 million, amassed from his successful acting career. From his breakout role in the television series “Maverick” (1957 – 1962) to his work on “The Rockford Files” (1974 – 1980), and various other roles on the screen, this actor’s prosperous career contributed significantly to his substantial wealth.
The Death of James Garner
Garner passed away at his home in Los Angeles on July 19, 2014. The cause of death was reported as a heart attack resulting from coronary artery disease.
James Garner’s life was an extraordinary blend of a celebrated career and a blissful marital life. His story with his wife, Lois, is a timeless love tale. Garner’s captivating persona on and off the screen will continue inspiring and entertaining future generations.
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