Colleen Townsend

Colleen Townsend Evans (born December 21, 1928 ) is an American actress, author and humanitarian.

Early years Townsend was born in Glendale, California. Her parents separated "when she was a tot," after which she lived with her mother. She attended Brigham Young University, leaving during her sophomore year to pursue a film career.

Life and career When Townsend was 15 years old, she began performing on television as a member of the dramatic company at station W6XAO in Los Angeles. A talent scout saw her work there, which led to her signing a contract with Warner Bros. Hedda Hopper was quoted as saying that Townsend was "going places." which began in the Evans home. Bel Air Presbyterian Church exists today as the largest Presbyterian congregation in the Los Angeles area.

Later, the couple met and became friends with Billy and Ruth Graham. Townsend, now billed as Colleen Evans, returned to films briefly, starring in two films produced by the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association: Oiltown, U.S.A. (1950) and Souls in Conflict (1955).

Post-acting Colleen and Louis Evans moved to Washington, D.C. where he served at National Presbyterian Church. Thereafter she dedicated herself to humanitarian work, specifically in relation to racial or religious discrimination, human rights, and the role of women in society. She partnered with her husband in ministry and served on the board of World Vision. She served as the first female chair of the Billy Graham Crusade in 1986.

Filmography