Veteran actress Suzanne Shepherd, renowned for her roles in the critically acclaimed film “Goodfellas” and the Emmy-winning series “The Sopranos,” passed away at the age of 89.

Shepherd, a distinguished figure in Hollywood, died peacefully in her sleep at her home in New York City on Friday, November 17. The exact cause of her passing remains undisclosed, but her daughter, Kate Shepherd, revealed that Shepherd had been grappling with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and had weakened considerably in her final days.

Born in Elizabeth, New Jersey, Shepherd embarked on her acting journey in 1988 with a role in the Julia Roberts-led film “Mystic Pizza.” Her portrayal of complex, often overbearing maternal figures became a hallmark of her career. In Martin Scorsese’s “Goodfellas,” she memorably played the mother of Lorraine Bracco’s character. Shepherd’s role in “The Sopranos” as Mary DeAngelis, the mother of Carmela Soprano, played by Edie Falco, further cemented her status as a skilled character actress.

Throughout her career, Shepherd’s versatility shone through in various roles across both film and television. Her filmography includes appearances in “Uncle Buck,” “Lolita,” and “Requiem for a Dream.” She also featured in popular TV series like “Law & Order” and “Blue Bloods.” Her recent work included a role in the Netflix comedy “The Week Of.”

Beyond her on-screen achievements, Shepherd was deeply committed to the craft of acting, dedicating over four decades to teaching. She imparted her knowledge and skills at several prestigious institutions, including the Trinity Square Conservatory, Hartman Conservatory, the Berghof Studio, and her own studio in New York City. Her contributions to the world of acting extended to directing stage productions, further showcasing her multifaceted talents in the arts.

Shepherd leaves behind a daughter, Kate, son-in-law Miles McManus, and her granddaughter, Isabelle Shepherd, as well as fans and students who were inspired by her.