Paul Avery, the actor best known for his role on the ABC soap opera All My Children, and his wife Sheila Avery have tragically died in a house fire at their home in Blairstown, New Jersey. Paul was 81 years old.
New Jersey State Police and the Blairstown Fire Department responded to the blaze on Mohican Road shortly after 12:38 a.m. on Tuesday, June 16, according to the Ridge View Echo.
Rescuers found the couple trapped inside the burning home. Firefighters entered the property and discovered Paul and Sheila unconscious. Despite administering CPR, both succumbed to their injuries shortly thereafter.
The fire was declared under control at 1:03 a.m., and the cause remains under investigation.
Daughter Confirms Tragic Loss
The couple's daughter, Kyle Avery, confirmed the devastating loss in a heartfelt Facebook post later that evening. She expressed her devastation and noted that her parents loved deeply and were loved in return. Kyle also thanked the Blairstown Fire Department and indicated that service plans would be announced at a later date.
Paul Avery's Career and Legacy
Paul Avery began his acting career in the 1970s, making his debut in the 1972 film Stanley. He later appeared in Superman (1979) and featured in television shows such as Three's Company, ABC Weekend Specials, Soap, and Tales From the Darkside.
His most notable role came in the 1980s when he played Hughie, the bartender at Foxy's, on All My Children. He held the recurring role for 12 years, becoming a beloved figure among fans.
Beyond acting, Paul worked as a journalist and served as executive editor of the Ridge View Echo, leaving a lasting impression on colleagues and friends.
Tributes from Fans and Friends
Many fans and close family friends shared emotional messages to comfort the grieving daughter:
- Nancy Fiala Walls: 'I am so sorry. We were such great friends! Parker and Avery we are praying for comfort and healing for your loss. I still am on chemo so depending when services are we can come, you are in our prayers.'
- Kim Schneider Spangenberg: 'Kyle, I am so terribly sorry. Your mom was a mentor and an amazing friend to me. Sending love to you and your family.'
- Lindsay Pfeiffer: 'Oh my gosh! This saddens me so much. Your mom was pivotal in nurturing my then-budding feminism. I think of her often and the positive impact she had on my life. She was such a kind, joyful, loving, and intelligent person. My heart is with you and your family.'
- Cristina Benedetto: 'Oh gosh I'm so sorry to hear this. No words can do this kind of a loss justice. I'm so sorry and thinking of you.'
- Jennifer Buri Da Cunha: 'Oh Kyle I am so so sorry. Sending you love and wishes for peace and comfort.'
The entertainment community continues to mourn the loss of Paul Avery and his wife Sheila, remembering their contributions and the joy they brought to those around them.
