Heartbreaking news to share ILOSM family. Denise Dowse — the actress best known for her role as “Marlene” in the Ray Charles biopic, “Ray”; “Insecure”; and “Beverly Hills 90210” — has passed away at age 64.

Denise was battling a viral meningitis infection for several days. As a result, she’d been in a coma for a week, after the infection caused inflammation in the membranes that encased her brain and spinal cord. Sadly, she lost her battle with the illness on Saturday, August 13, 2022.

Sister Of Denise Dowse Speaks Out

 

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A post shared by Denise Dowse (@denisedowse)

Denise’s sister, Tracey, released a statement shortly after Denise’s passing:

“I want to take this moment to thank our friends and family for all of the love and prayers.
It is with a very heavy heart that I inform everyone that my sister, Denise Dowse has gone forward to meet our family in eternal life.

Denise Yvonne Dowse was the most amazing sister, a consummate, illustrious actress, mentor and director. She was my very best friend and final family member. Denise loved all of you. I know that she is watching over us with all the love she has.

I ask for privacy and your continued prayers.

I will provide, at a later time, her Celebration of Life information. I will update you here.
Again I am so grateful for all the calls, text messages, direct messages, and silent prayers for my sister. We could not have made it so gracefully and painlessly without all of the prayer warriors around the world
Thank you for giving so selflessly.

I love you, Tracey.”

On August 7th — a week prior to Denise’s passing, while she was still hospitalized — her sister, Tracey, wrote the following message:

“[Denise’s] doctors do not know when she will come out of the coma as it was not medically induced. … As many of you know I am a private person. So this is hard for me. I am requesting support and prayers be offered me and my sister, and my only immediate family @denisedowse. … She is a vibrant actor and director that should have many years ahead of her. Thoughts, prayers and support are greatly appreciated.”

What Is Meningitis : Symptoms And Warnings

The Mayo Clinic defines meningitis as an inflammation of the fluid and membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Most U.S. cases result from a viral infection, but can be caused by bacterial, parasitic and fungal infections, according to the clinic’s website. Some cases can improve without treatment in a few weeks while others are life-threatening, requiring emergency antibiotic treatment.

According to medical website, The Mayo Clinic:

Meningitis is an inflammation of the fluid and membranes (meninges) surrounding your brain and spinal cord. The swelling from meningitis typically triggers signs and symptoms such as headache, fever and a stiff neck.

Most cases of meningitis in the United States are caused by a viral infection, but bacterial, parasitic and fungal infections are other causes. Some cases of meningitis improve without treatment in a few weeks. Others can be life-threatening and require emergency antibiotic treatment.

The Mayo Clinic also urges that individual “seek immediate medical care if you suspect that someone has meningitis. Early treatment of bacterial meningitis can prevent serious complications.”

Rest In Peace And Power Queen

Denise made her mark in the acting world years ago, with some of her other memorable roles being in “Grey’s Anatomy, “Good Trouble,” “The Guardian,” “Coach Carter,” “Rocket Power,” and many more. She was a beautiful soul who will be greatly missed. Denise Dowse, rest peacefully and powerfully queen.