Wilma Francis, born Wilma Francis Sareussen on November 26, 1917, in the culturally rich and historically significant city of New Orleans, Louisiana, embarked upon a remarkable and enduring journey within the realm of the entertainment industry. At the tender age of eighteen, she made the bold decision to sign with Paramount Pictures as a starlet in 1936, thus marking the inception of her illustrious and multifaceted career. Throughout the 1930s and 1940s, Francis appeared in a plethora of films, often assuming minor roles, with occasional second leads, thereby honing her craft and gradually building a reputation within the industry. Her professional trajectory took an intriguing and significant turn in the 1940s when she worked as an assistant to the renowned and acclaimed director Sam Wood, collaborating with him on several projects and further developing her skills and expertise. Notably, her last billed appearance in a motion picture was in Wood's 1945 film "Guest Wife".
Decades went by, and Francis continued to make appearances on television, with her final, uncredited role in the 1970s film "Airport". As the 1960s unfolded, she returned to her native city of New Orleans, where she remained a prominent figure in the local theater scene.
In the 1970s, she took the initiative to establish a casting office, aiming to provide local talent for film and television productions that were shot in the area. This endeavor showcased her dedication to the community and her passion for the performing arts.
Wilma Francis Sareussen's remarkable life came to a close on June 23, 1991, following a lung surgery, at the age of 73.
