Frances Brice Stark; Daughter of Ziegfeld Follies’ Fanny Brice

Frances Brice Stark, the daughter of former Ziegfeld Follies and radio star Fanny Brice, died Sunday. Her 51-year marriage produced two children and the classic films “Funny Girl” and “Funny Lady,” based on her mother’s life.

A family spokesman said she was 72 and died at her Los Angeles home of heart failure after a series of strokes.

Born in New York when her comedian mother was the toast of that city, Mrs. Stark met her future husband, film producer Ray Stark, when Fanny Brice came to California in 1937 to further her radio career.

As Stark’s wife, she was considered one of Los Angeles’ premiere hostesses and headed several fashion lists.

Stark produced “Funny Girl” in 1969 and its sequel, “Funny Lady,” in 1975, both starring Barbra Streisand. “Funny Girl” originally was on Broadway.

Besides her husband, she is survived by a daughter, Wendy, a brother, William Brice, and a grandchild. Her son, Peter, died in 1970.

In lieu of flowers contributions are asked to The Colleagues, a support group for the Children’s Institute, 214 S. Westmoreland Ave., Los Angeles 90004.