Patty Duke Dead at 69: Cause of Death Revealed

Patty Duke, who won an Oscar for her role as Helen Keller in “The Miracle Worker," has passed away at the age of 69.

Duke died at 1:20 am on Tuesday morning in Coeur D'Alene, Idaho. Her rep said in a statement, "Her cause of death was sepsis from a ruptured intestine. She was a wife, a mother, a grandmother, a friend, a mental health advocate and a cultural icon. She will be greatly missed.”

Duke's family added in a separate statement, “This morning, our beloved wife, mother, matriarch and the exquisite artist, humanitarian, and champion for mental health, Anna Patty Duke Pearce, closed her eyes, quieted her pain and ascended to a beautiful place. We celebrate the infinite love and compassion she shared through her work and throughout her life.”

Duke, who performed in films, theater, and TV, won three Emmys, for her work in “My Sweet Charlie,” "Captains and Kings," and “The Miracle Worker.” She also took home two Golden Globes for “The Patty Duke Show” and “The Miracle Worker."