Betsy Palmer, born Patricia Betsy Hrunek on November 1, 1926, in East Chicago, Indiana, was an American actress known for her extensive work in film, television, and theater. She grew up in a family that valued education and creativity, with her mother, Marie Love, founding the Chicago Business College, and her father, Rudolph Vincent Hrunek, working as an industrial chemist. 

Her passion for acting began at a young age, and she performed in school plays throughout her childhood. After graduating from East Chicago's Roosevelt High School in 1944, she attended East Chicago Business College and later studied at the Goodman School of Drama at the Art Institute of Chicago.

Her acting career began in the early 1950s when she moved to New York City and landed her first television role in the soap opera "Miss Susan" in 1951. She quickly gained recognition for her talent and versatility, appearing in various television shows and films. 

She became a familiar face on television as a regular panelist on the game show "I've Got a Secret" from 1958 to 1967. She also made guest appearances on popular shows such as "The Love Boat," "Murder, She Wrote," and "Newhart."

In addition to her television work, she had a successful film career. She appeared in notable films such as "Mister Roberts" (1955), "The Long Gray Line" (1955), and "The Tin Star" (1957). However, she is perhaps best known for her role as Pamela Voorhees, the vengeful mother of Jason Voorhees, in the iconic horror film "Friday the 13th" (1980). 

This role cemented her status as a "scream queen" and introduced her to a new generation of fans.

Her personal life was relatively private. She married Dr. Vincent Joseph Merendino in 1954, and the couple had one daughter, Melissa Merendino, born in 1962. They divorced in 1971. 

She spent her later years between her homes in New York City and Sedona, Arizona. She continued to work in television and low-budget films, including "The Fear: Resurrection" (1999) and "Bell Witch: The Movie" (2007).

Throughout her career, she received several awards and nominations. She won a Special Career Award at the Fantasporto Film Festival in 2001 for her role in "Penny Dreadful" and was nominated for a Razzie Award for Worst Supporting Actress for her performance in "Friday the 13th" (1980).

Betsy Palmer passed away on May 29, 2015, at the age of 88 in Danbury, Connecticut.