Desperate Housewives, The West Wing: Kathryn Joosten Dies at 72

Actress Kathryn Joosten died yesterday at the age of 72, following a long battle with lung cancer. She was reportedly surrounded by her family at the time of her passing.

Her Desperate Housewives character, cantankerous Karen McKlusky, died in the show’s series finale which aired a few weeks ago. She won two Emmys for her work on the dramedy and was nominated three times.

Before moving to Wisteria Lane, Joosten was best known for her role as Mrs. Dolores Landingham, the no-nonsense executive secretary to President Bartlet (Martin Sheen) on The West Wing. After two seasons, that character died suddenly after being hit by a drunk driver. She was seen in flashbacks in seasons three and four.

Joosten also had recurring roles on shows like Scrubs, Joan of Arcadia, My Name Is Earl, General Hospital, and Dharma & Greg.

Of Joosten’s passing, co-star Dana Delany tweeted, “She was a salt-of-the-earth nurse who became a brilliant actor. Her comic timing was nonpareil.” The actress followed that up with, “Kathryn spoke openly and passionately about her fight with lung cancer. It is our loss that she is gone.”

Brenda Strong wrote, “To the memory of an extraordinary woman, actress and friend. Rest in Peace Kathryn Joosten. Wisteria Lane won’t be the same without you.”

What do you think? What do you remember best about Joosten’s work? Her roles on Desperate Housewives, The West Wing, or something else?