Shirley Jones Parents: Meet Marjorie Williams, Paul Jones

Shirley Mae Jones is an American actress and singer.

She was born on March 31, 1934 in Charleroi, Pennsylvania, to Methodist parents Marjorie Williams, a homemaker, and Paul Jones, owners of the Jones Brewing Company.

Shirley Jones was named after child star Shirley Temple by her parents.

Shirley has spent six decades in show business within which she starred as wholesome characters in a number of musical films, such as Oklahoma! (1955), Carousel (1956), and The Music Man (1962).

Her first audition was for an open bi-weekly casting call held by John Fearnley, casting director for Rodgers and Hammerstein and their various musicals.

At the time, Jones had never heard of Rodgers and Hammerstein.

Fearnley was so impressed with her performance and he ran across the street to fetch Richard Rodgers, who was rehearsing with an orchestra for an upcoming musical.

Rodgers then called Oscar Hammerstein at home and he was also impressed with Jones when he saw her perform.

She became the first and only singer to be put under personal contract with the songwriters.