Poughkeepsie Day School is deeply saddened to share news of the death of Cecilia (Ceci) Hart, mother of Flynn Earl Jones ’01 and wife of actor James Earl Jones, after a long illness on October 16 at age 68.

A former actor on Broadway and television, Ceci was an engaged and supportive member of the PDS community who was known for her enthusiastic participation in friend- and fund-raising events at the school. In 2000, she, along with her husband, made a generous lead gift towards the construction of a state-of-the-art theater – the James Earl Jones Theater  – and annex at PDS. Ceci was particularly helpful and instrumental in bringing together ensembles of actors for benefit productions, including David Strathairn, Jane Alexander, the late Natasha Richardson and of course, James Earl. Ceci and James Earl continued to support the school over the years, never missing an opportunity to donate coveted items or exclusive tickets and backstage passes to high-profile Broadway shows starring James Earl for the PDS annual auction. Above all, we will remember her spirited, generous and lively presence around the school.

Our deep sympathies go out to her husband and son, and all members of their family.

Ceci’s family has requested that donations in her name be made to two organizations close to her heart: The Actors Fund or Hudson Valley Hospice.

Liz Vinogradov
Director of Advancement