Acting
William Severn
William Severn, born William Churchill Roosevelt Severn on January 17, 1938, in Los Angeles, was a prominent American child actor whose career flourished during the late 1940s and early 1950s. He was the son of Dr. Clifford Brill Severn and Rachel Malherbe, who had emigrated from South Africa. Growing up in a family of creatives, William was one of eight siblings, all of whom pursued acting careers, including his siblings Venetia, Clifford, and Yvonne.
Severn's film debut occurred in the World War II drama *Eagle Squadron*, where he was credited as 'Little Billy Severn.' However, he gained recognition for his memorable performance as Peter Humphreys in the heartwarming film *Journey for Margaret*. Despite a promising start in Hollywood, William transitioned away from acting as he matured.
In adulthood, Severn emerged as a well-known evangelist based in Ventura, California. His ministry took him around the globe, including mission work in Indonesia during the tumultuous 1965 revolution, as well as in Israel and the United Kingdom. He also shared his message through broadcasts on the Trinity Broadcasting Network.
Tragically, William Severn's life was cut short when he passed away from a heart attack on March 26, 1983, at the young age of 45. He was interred at Pierce Brothers-Valley Oaks Memorial Park in Westlake Village, California, resting alongside his mother.
