Sally Kirkland, the acclaimed actress known for her role in Anna, is now 84 and facing the challenges of dementia under hospice care in Palm Springs, California. Her representative, Michael Greene, confirmed she has been struggling with the condition for over a year.
After nearly a decade of living independently, Sally Kirkland found love with Mark Hebert, whom she married in 1985. Unfortunately, their marriage ended in divorce. While details surrounding their separation remain private, friends close to her have mentioned that Sally consistently sought emotional connection and stability in her relationships—a pursuit often complicated by her public career.
Despite her two marriages, Sally Kirkland never had biological children. Her friends noted she often felt the absence of a life partner or children to lean on during difficult times. However, she shared a strong maternal bond with her late daughter, Jan Kirkland, and her granddaughter, Hannah Bonta.
“She never had the luxury of a life partner or children to lean on in difficult times,” shared one of her close friends.
In 2019, tragedy struck when Jan and Hannah were murdered in Florida. According to Local 10 News, Jason Dale Roseman was sentenced to life in prison in connection with the case. Their deaths occurred just weeks after Jan’s father, Robert Kirkland, passed away from kidney failure.
As she continues her fight with dementia, Sally is being supported by her long-time friend and former student, Cody Galloway, who remains by her side through this difficult stage of life.
Author’s Summary: At 84, Sally Kirkland faces dementia and profound loss, finding comfort in loyal friends as her extraordinary yet turbulent life nears its final chapter.