Lina Romay

Biography

Maria Elena "Lina" Romay (January 16, 1919 - December 17, 2010) was a talented Mexican-American actress and singer whose career spanned several decades. Born in Brooklyn, New York, she was the daughter of Porfirio Romay, who served as an attache at the Mexican Consulate in Los Angeles. Romay made a memorable appearance in the animated classic "Senor Droopy" (1949), showcasing her unique appeal in both animated and live-action formats.

In the early 1940s, Lina showcased her vocal talents as a member of Xavier Cugat's ensemble, performing on the NBC radio program "Cugat Rumba Revue." She also starred alongside Cugat in popular films such as "You Were Never Lovelier" (1942) and "Bathing Beauty" (1944), further solidifying her place in the entertainment industry. Earlier in her career, she had performed with Horace Heidt’s orchestra under the name Josette, presenting herself as a French singer.

In her personal life, Romay was married to John Lawrence Adams and later became the third wife of Jay Gould III, whom she wed on June 30, 1953. Lina Romay passed away at the age of 91 from natural causes in a Pasadena, California hospital on December 17, 2010, leaving behind a legacy of artistry and charm that continues to be remembered.