Best known for appearing in George Romero’s genre-starting film Night of the Living Dead, Marilyn Eastman was doing so much more than just appearing in it. Not only is she the zombie seen eating the bug off the tree, but she also handled some of the makeup, props, and so much more, like most others that worked on that low budget classic. While she only appeared in 2 other features, she will always be remembered as poor Helen Cooper, who meets the deadly end of a gardening trowel from her own daughter.

For as long as their are zombie fans, this little picture made outside of Pittsburgh by a bunch of friends will keep these hardworking people alive and well, no matter how long they have left us. Our thoughts go out to her friends and family during this difficult time.