Jessica Cadwalader was a talented actress and author who was married to Robert Ryan, one of the most acclaimed actors of Hollywood’s golden age. She was also a passionate activist who founded a progressive school for children in California. But her life was cut short by cancer, which claimed her at the age of 57 in 1972. Here is a brief overview of her life and career, and the tragic circumstances of her death.
Early Life and Career
Jessica Cadwalader was born on October 26, 1914 in Los Angeles, California. She was the daughter of a wealthy real estate tycoon and a secretary. She attended the Westlake School for Girls and later studied at the University of California, Los Angeles. She had a keen interest in theater and joined a little theater group in Los Angeles. She also modeled for a department store and appeared in some minor film roles
In 1939, she met Robert Ryan, a rising star who had just signed a contract with RKO. They fell in love and got married on March 11, 1939. They had three children: Timothy, Lisa, and Cheyney. Jessica gave up her acting career to support her husband and raise their family. She also became involved in various social causes, such as civil rights, environmentalism, and anti-war movements
Oakwood School
In 1951, Jessica and Robert moved to North Hollywood, California, where they bought a ranch. Jessica was dissatisfied with the conventional education system and wanted to provide a more creative and progressive learning environment for her children and others. She gathered a group of like-minded parents and teachers and founded the Oakwood School, a private, co-educational, non-sectarian school that emphasized individuality, diversity, and social responsibility. Jessica served as the president of the board of trustees and was actively involved in the school’s development and administration. The school still operates today and has produced many notable alumni, such as Leonardo DiCaprio, Molly Ringwald, and Joss Whedon
Writing Career
Jessica was also a talented writer who published several books and articles. Her first book was The Year of the Cloud, a novel about a young couple who face a nuclear disaster. It was published in 1967 and received positive reviews. She also wrote a children’s book called The Animal Family, which was illustrated by Maurice Sendak and won the Newbery Honor in 1966. She also wrote a memoir called The Sun and the Moon, which chronicled her life with Robert and their travels around the world. She also contributed to various magazines, such as Harper’s Bazaar, Vogue, and The New Yorker.
Cancer and Death
In 1970, Jessica was diagnosed with cancer, which had spread to her lungs, liver, and bones. She underwent chemotherapy and radiation treatments, but they were unsuccessful. She decided to spend her last days at home, surrounded by her family and friends. She died on May 22, 1972, in her apartment at The Dakota, a famous building in New York City. She was 57 years old. Her husband Robert was devastated by her death and died of lung cancer a year later. They were both cremated and their ashes were scattered in the Pacific Ocean.
Jessica Cadwalader was a remarkable woman who left behind a legacy of art, education, and activism. She was a loving wife, mother, and friend who touched many lives with her generosity and compassion. She was also a courageous fighter who faced her illness with dignity and grace. She will always be remembered as a shining star in the Hollywood sky.
