Beloved Hallmark Star Known for ‘Mrs. Claus’ Roles Dead at 85

Key Points

Marcia Ann Bures, known for Hallmark’s Mrs. Claus roles, died at age 85.
She was remembered for “warmth, wit, and heart” in beloved holiday films.
She is survived by her two daughters and other family members.

Marcia Ann Bures (sometimes spelled Burrs), a beloved character actress known to Hallmark viewers for her memorable roles as Mrs. Claus in a variety of the network’s holiday films, has died at the age of 85. Bures built a career playing warm, comforting roles that made her a familiar presence during the holiday season, earning a special place with fans of the network’s festive films.

According to an obituary for Bures, the actress died “peacefully on Sunday, March 22, 2026, surrounded by family.” A cause of death was not listed.

“Audiences also knew Marcia as everyone’s favorite Mrs. Claus in the beloved Hallmark holiday films starring Steve Guttenberg and Crystal Bernard, including Single Santa Seeks Mrs. Claus and its sequel Meet the Santas. These films became seasonal favorites and cemented Marcia’s unforgettable reign as Mrs. Claus—roles she played with warmth, wit, and heart, and which delighted generations of viewers year after year,” her obituary read, in part.

“Though she loved performing her favorite role was Mom—the one she cherished most. She taught her kids that life was limitless, rules were optional, and you could do anything. She lived it, she meant it, and she passed it on like a family superpower,” it continued.

In addition to her roles in Hallmark Christmas movies, you may also recognize Bures from roles on popular shows like Young Sheldon, Mad Men, Grey’s Anatomy, Frasier, and more. According to her IMDb page, Bures’ last role was in 2018.

Bures She is survived by her daughters, Jennifer Martin and Diana Fuller. She was pre-deceased by her husband, Joseph Edward Bures.