Annette Funicello, here at 14 as one of the original Mouseketeers in 1956, became one of the most popular kids on the Disney TV show. (The Walt Disney Co.)
After “The Mickey Mouse Club,” Annette Funicello paired with Frankie Avalon in a series of popular beach movies, such as 1963’s “Beach Party.” (American Movie Classics)
Annette Funicello, shown in 1955, was one of the original members of the Mouseketeers. (Walt Disney Co.)
“The Mickey Mouse Club” showcased Funicello’s musical abilities. (File Photo)
Annette Funicello, shown in 1978, became a regular on TV shows such as “The Love Boat.” (Associated Press)
Songs recorded by Annette Funicello included “Strummin’ Song,” “Tall Paul” and “Pineapple Princess.” She credited the songwriting Sherman brothers, Richard and Robert, for coming up with the successful idea of double-tracking her voice and adding echo. (Walt Disney Co.)
From left, Annette Funicello, Frankie Avalon and Jody McCrea in 1963’s “Beach Party.” ()
At 22, Funicello and her agent, Jack Gilardi, were married in Encino in January 1965. (UCLA Library)
Funicello starred in the 1966 film “Fireball 500,” about stock car racers and whiskey runners. (American International Pictures)
Funicello costarred in 1968’s “Head” with the Monkees, a take-off on psychedelic Beatles films of the era. The story about the nature of free will also starred Victor Mature. (Columbia Pictures)
Annette Funicello, shown in 1988, made her last feature film, “Back to the Beach,” in 1987. (Don Kelsen / Los Angeles Times)
Funicello and her longtime costar, Frankie Avalon, reunited in 1990 at the Lakeside Country Club in Toluca Lake. (Los Angeles Times)
Funicello and her frequent costar Frankie Avalon in 1987 at the beach in Santa Monica. (Gary Friedman / Los Angeles Times)
Funicello photographed in 1996. (Los Angeles Times)
Funicello is kissed by actor Fabian while Frankie Avalon looks on during a tribute honoring Funicello in Beverly Hills in 1997. (Michael Caulfield / Associated Press)
