Ever wonder about the unsung heroes behind Hollywood's brightest stars? Patsy Swayze wasn't just the mother of Patrick Swayze; she was the driving force, the artistic engine, and the unwavering mentor who shaped a generation of dancers and performers. Her influence extended far beyond her famous son, reaching into the heart of Houston's dance scene and onto the silver screen.
Yvonne Helen Patsy Swayze (n\u00e9e Karnes), a name synonymous with dance and dedication, left an indelible mark on the world of performing arts. Born on February 7, 1927, in Houston, Texas, to Gladys Mae (a nurse, n\u00e9e Snell, according to some sources) and Victor Elliott Karnes (a geologist and WWI pilot), Patsy's early life took an unexpected turn when she was involved in a car accident at the tender age of ten. To aid in her recovery, her mother enrolled her in classical ballet classes, unknowingly setting her on a path that would transform not only her own life but the lives of countless others. This early exposure ignited a passion that would burn brightly for decades, shaping her into an accomplished dancer, choreographer, and educator.
| Patsy Swayze: Biographical and Professional Information | |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Yvonne Helen Patsy Swayze (n\u00e9e Karnes) |
| Date of Birth | February 7, 1927 |
| Place of Birth | Houston, Texas, USA (Harris County) |
| Date of Death | September 16, 2013 |
| Place of Death | Simi Valley, California, USA |
| Cause of Death | Stroke complications |
| Parents | Gladys Mae (nurse) and Victor Elliott Karnes (geologist, WWI pilot) |
| Spouse | Jesse Wayne Swayze (married 1940s - 1982, his death) |
| Children | Patrick Wayne Swayze, Don Swayze |
| Education | Trained in jazz and classical ballet |
| Career | Dancer, choreographer, dance instructor |
| Organizations Founded | Swayze School of Dance, Houston Jazz Ballet Company |
| Teaching Positions | University of Houston (18 years) |
| Notable Choreography Credits | Urban Cowboy, Liar's Moon, Hope Floats |
| Other Activities | Choreographed at the Houston Playhouse Center |
| Legacy | Influenced generations of dancers, including her sons, and contributed significantly to the dance community in Houston and Hollywood. |
| Reference Link | |
| The New York Times Obituary |
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