As a small child, Yvonne Lime was so timid she would cling to her mother whenever visitors arrived. Few could have imagined that the shy girl would one day command the silver screen, sharing scenes with Hollywood icons—including Elvis Presley.
Yvonne Lime Fedderson has now passed away, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in film and humanitarian work. She died peacefully of natural causes at her home in Paradise Valley, Arizona, on Friday, January 23, 2026. She was 90.
A Brief but Brilliant Hollywood Career
Born and raised in Glendale, California, Lime was enrolled in drama classes to help overcome her shyness. The training worked quickly—by age 10, she was already performing professionally on stage and in films.
She made her movie debut in The Rainmaker (1956), playing Snookie Maguire. After 51 young actresses auditioned unsuccessfully, Lime impressed filmmakers instantly, earning a contract with Paramount without even needing a screen test. Acting opposite stars like Burt Lancaster and Katharine Hepburn, she stood out as a natural talent.
Her breakout role came in I Was a Teenage Werewolf (1957), where she played Michael Landon’s girlfriend. The low-budget film became a surprise hit, earning more than $2 million worldwide. That same year, she also appeared—uncredited—as Sally in Elvis Presley’s Loving You.
In 1958, Lime starred in Dragstrip Riot, further cementing her place in Hollywood. Though her film career was relatively short, it left a lasting impression.
A Life of Purpose Beyond Acting
In 1959, Lime shifted her focus toward philanthropy, co-founding the nonprofit Childhelp with actress Sara O’Meara. The organization supports abused, neglected, and vulnerable children, a mission Lime dedicated herself to for decades. Her humanitarian efforts earned her five consecutive Nobel Peace Prize nominations between 2000 and 2005.
Childhelp announced her passing with a heartfelt tribute, praising her compassion, faith, and lifelong commitment to helping children and families.
Family and Later Years
Lime married television producer Don Fedderson in 1969, and they welcomed a daughter, Dionne. She continued working in television through the 1960s, appearing in shows such as Happy Days, The George Burns and Gracie Allen Show, Dobie Gillis, Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C., and Bat Masterson. Her final acting role was on My Three Sons in 1968, produced by her husband.
In her later years, Yvonne lived quietly with her daughter in Arizona, far from Hollywood but deeply connected to the charitable legacy she built.
From a reserved child to a beloved actress and devoted humanitarian, Yvonne Lime Fedderson will be remembered for her talent, generosity, and enduring impact. Rest in peace.
