Paul Avery, known for roles in “All My Children” and the 1978 film “Superman,” died in a house fire in Blairstown, New Jersey, alongside his wife, Sheila Garry Avery. Firefighters found both in critical condition early Tuesday, June 16, and authorities say the
Paul Avery didn’t make it out in time.
The actor. credited with roles in “All My Children” and the 1978 film “Superman. ” died in a house fire in Blairstown. New Jersey. alongside his wife. Sheila Garry Avery. Firefighters responded to their home early in the morning of Tuesday. June 16. and the couple was found in critical condition. according to New Jersey State Police.
The couple reportedly died shortly after they were rescued, and an investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing.
Kyle Avery, identified by the Ridge View Echo as the couple’s daughter, posted a message on Facebook on June 16. She said she was “devastated to share that our parents, Paul and Sheila Garry Avery, passed away early this morning.”
“We loved them so much, and they loved us so much, and nobody ever had to wonder if that was so,” Kyle Avery wrote. She added that funeral service plans were forthcoming.
Beyond the headlines, Avery’s career included a range of television and film work. He played a cameraman in Christopher Reeve’s “Superman,” and he portrayed Hughie on “All My Children.” The character was introduced in 1981 and, according to IMDB, Avery reprised the role in 1988.
He also appeared in one-off episodes of “Three’s Company,” “Soap,” “Tales from the Darkside” and “Young People’s Specials,” the Ridge View Echo reported.
The account of Avery’s life extended past the screen. Per the Ridge View Echo, he was a Vietnam War veteran and pilot. He also served on the township committee until 2018. when he began providing full-time caregiving to his wife after she suffered a stroke. That detail has taken on new weight as family and community members process the loss.
From the moment firefighters arrived early Tuesday. the story turned on one grim point of timing: the couple was found in critical condition and died shortly after rescue. With the cause still under investigation. what comes next for the community and for those who knew Avery—friends. colleagues. and the family he cared for—will depend on answers the investigation can still deliver.
Paul Avery All My Children Superman 1978 house fire Blairstown New Jersey Sheila Garry Avery Kyle Avery New Jersey State Police investigation