One of the industry's most accomplished comedy actresses, Kathleen Freeman (1923-2001) played hundreds of character roles and had worked with most of Hollywood's greatest stars. Just a few of her credits include Dave's World, Melrose Place, Naked Gun 33 1/3, The Rounders with Henry Fonda, and Far Country with Jimmy Stewart. Kathleen was in Dragnet, Blues Brothers (as the Nun), Hocus Pocus with Bette Midler, Singing in the Rain with Gene Kelly, North to Alaska with John Wayne, Ladies Man, and Disorderly Orderly with Jerry Lewis. Her TV credits include Topper (as the maid), Hogan's Heroes, The Lucille Ball Show, The Dick Van Dyke Show, The Hogan Family, Lots-A-Luck with Dom Deluise, Coach, and LA Law. Kathleen also starred as the next door neighbor, Mrs. Wilgus, during the first season of The Donna Reed Show.

The Donna Reed Foundation for the Performing Arts honors festival participants with the Kathleen Freeman Spirit Award.