Charlotte Samco, known as Charlotte Samco McKenna Crawford, is an American woman who gained public attention due to her marriage to the late actor, singer, and musician Johnny Crawford. While her husband’s career in the entertainment industry was well-documented, Charlotte has maintained a low profile, leading to curiosity about her life and background.
Quick Bio Table
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Charlotte Samco McKenna Crawford |
Date of Birth | June 23, 1946 |
Place of Birth | Pierre, South Dakota, USA |
Age | 78 years old (as of 2025) |
Nationality | American |
Ethnicity | White |
Education | Attended Riggs High School, South Dakota |
Profession | Information not publicly disclosed |
Marital Status | Widowed (Married Johnny Crawford in 1995; he passed away in 2021) |
Children | One daughter from a previous relationship; no children with Johnny Crawford |
Current Residence | Burbank, California, USA |
Early Life and Background
Charlotte McKenna was born on June 23, 1946, in Pierre, South Dakota. Raised in a family that experienced early loss, Charlotte’s early life details are scarce. She attended Riggs High School in South Dakota, where she was affectionately nicknamed “Tinker” by her friends.
Her mother, Ruth Elaine Strader, placed her for adoption at birth. Charlotte later reconnected with her mother at the age of 34, establishing a relationship before Ruth’s passing in 2013.

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Meeting Johnny Crawford
Charlotte and Johnny Crawford first met during their high school years. After graduation, they went their separate ways, with Johnny pursuing his acting career. In 1990, they reunited and began dating. Their relationship culminated in marriage on February 14, 1995.
Life with Johnny Crawford
Throughout their marriage, Charlotte and Johnny led a relatively private life. They resided in a 1927 house in Hollywood Hills, California, surrounded by rescued animals and musical instruments, reflecting their shared love for music and animals.
Johnny Crawford, known for his role as Mark McCain in the television series The Rifleman, had a career that spanned acting, singing, and leading the Johnny Crawford Orchestra. Despite his fame, Charlotte remained out of the public eye, supporting her husband behind the scenes.
Challenges and Loss
In 2019, Johnny was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, a condition that significantly impacted his health. In the months leading up to his death, he contracted COVID-19 and pneumonia, leading to his passing on April 29, 2021, at the age of 75. Charlotte was by his side during his final moments.
After Johnny’s death, Charlotte relocated to Burbank, California, to be closer to her daughter from a previous relationship. She has since maintained a low profile, with little public information available about her activities.

Conclusion
Charlotte Samco’s life, though largely private, reflects a story of love, resilience, and dedication. Her enduring partnership with Johnny Crawford, marked by shared passions and mutual support, stands as a testament to their commitment. While she may prefer to remain out of the public eye, Charlotte’s role in Johnny’s life and legacy is undeniable.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is Charlotte Samco?
- Charlotte Samco is the widow of the late actor Johnny Crawford. She gained public attention due to her marriage to Johnny.
- When was Charlotte Samco born?
- She was born on June 23, 1946, in Pierre, South Dakota.
- Did Charlotte Samco have children with Johnny Crawford?
- No, Charlotte and Johnny did not have children together. However, Charlotte has a daughter from a previous relationship.
- Where did Charlotte and Johnny meet?
- They met during their high school years in South Dakota.
- When did Charlotte and Johnny get married?
- They married on February 14, 1995.
- Where did Charlotte and Johnny live?
- They resided in a 1927 house in Hollywood Hills, California.
- What was Johnny Crawford known for?
- Johnny was known for his role as Mark McCain in The Rifleman, as well as his singing career and leadership of the Johnny Crawford Orchestra.
- What happened to Johnny Crawford?
- Johnny passed away on April 29, 2021, due to complications from Alzheimer’s disease, COVID-19, and pneumonia.
- Where does Charlotte Samco live now?
- After Johnny’s death, Charlotte relocated to Burbank, California.
- What is Charlotte Samco’s current profession?
- Information about Charlotte’s current profession is not publicly available.
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