Tim Matheson, known for his role in the popular series 'Virgin River,' is mourning the loss of his first wife, Jennifer Leak, who recently passed away at the age of 76. Leak, who starred alongside Matheson in the 1968 film 'Yours, Mine and Ours,' met him on set while portraying step-siblings.

In a heartfelt message shared on Facebook, Matheson expressed his deep sorrow over the news of Leak's passing. He described her as not only his on-screen sister but also his beloved first wife, highlighting her remarkable strength, beauty, and incredible talent. Matheson extended his deepest condolences to Leak's husband of 47 years, James D'Auria, and their numerous friends.

According to an obituary published by the East Hampton Star, Leak passed away on March 18 at her residence in Jupiter, Florida. The actor had been battling progressive supranuclear palsy, a rare neurological disease, for the past few years.

In the film 'Yours, Mine and Ours,' Matheson played the role of Mike, the son of Henry Fonda's character Frank Beardsley, while Leak portrayed Colleen, the daughter of Lucille Ball's character Helen North. The movie revolved around the marriage of Frank and Helen, which brought together their 18 children under one roof. A remake of the film was released in 2005, featuring Dennis Quaid, Rene Russo, Drake Bell, and Miranda Cosgrove.

Born in Cardiff, Wales in 1947, Leak's acting career took off with the pilot episode of 'Wojeck,' directed by Mike Nichols, in the mid-1960s. She was also cast in Nichols' acclaimed film, 'The Graduate,' but had to withdraw from the project due to immigration complications.

Apart from her role in 'Yours, Mine and Ours,' Leak was widely recognized for her work in soap operas. She portrayed Gwen Sherman in 'The Young and the Restless,' Olive Springer Gordon Randolph in 'Another World,' and Blanche Bouvier in 'Guiding Light.' Leak briefly appeared on the series 'Loving' in 1992 before retiring from the screen in the mid-1980s. In her later years, she worked as a sales agent for a real estate company.

Leak was married to Tim Matheson from 1968 to 1971 before tying the knot with James D'Auria in 1977. She is survived by her loving husband and brother.

The entertainment industry mourns the loss of Jennifer Leak, whose talent and warmth left an indelible impression on the hearts of many. Her contributions to the film and television industry will always be cherished, and she will be remembered as an exceptional actor and a beloved human being.