Maggie Peterson, a veteran actress who was best known for her starring turn as Charlene Darling on The Andy Griffith Show, has passed away at the age of 81.

According to her family, Peterson died on May 15 in Colorado. She went peacefully asleep in the arms of her loved ones. “Maggie’s health took a turn for the worse after the death of her husband Gus and we are relieved that we were able to move her home to be close to family for her last days,” the statement reads.

The family also extended their gratitude to Peterson’s supporters, “Maggie wanted this community to know how much you meant to her over the past three years. Despite being in Las Vegas and away from her family, your love and devotion helped her to not feel alone. She made many mentions to us about how she couldn’t believe how generous you all were. You truly made a positive impact on her life and helped her during some very difficult times.”

The Andy Griffith Museum stated: “It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Maggie Peterson Mancuso. Maggie will forever be remembered by Mayberry Fans as Charlene Darling on The Andy Griffith Show. She brought so much joy to her fans, and to our Mayberry Days Festival. We will miss you Maggie.”

Maggie Peterson was born on January 10, 1941, in Greeley, Colorado. She began her career as a singer when she was scouted by Dick Linke (manager of Andy Griffith), who invited her to New York. Peterson and her family quartet appeared many times on the Perry Como Show and the Pat Boone Show in the late 1950s. She would later join another group, The Ernie Mariani Trio, and travel for several years before retiring from touring.

Peterson was discovered by Bob Sweeny, the creator of The Andy Griffith Show, and Aaron Ruben, who worked on the show as a producer. She auditioned for the show and was cast as Charlene Darling, Briscoe Darling’s lone daughter. Her presence was brief in only five episodes of the classic series, but she made an impact.

Maggie Peterson also appeared in “Casino” (1965), as well as “Mars Attacks!” (1996) and other films.

The family announced that a personal ceremony will be held in the following weeks.