Actress Anne Pitoniak dies at 85

Anne Pitoniak, the Tony-nominated actress best known for her work in Marsha Norman's Pulitzer Prize-winning drama, "`night, Mother," has died of complications from cancer. She was 85.

Pitoniak died Sunday at her Manhattan home, her son, Christian Milord, told The New York Times.

The actress, born in Westfield, Mass., appeared on television and in regional theater, most prominently at Actors Theatre of Louisville, before making her Broadway debut in 1983 in "`night, Mother." Norman's play tells the story of a despondent young woman, originally played by Kathy Bates, who is contemplating suicide. Pitoniak, received a Tony Award nomination for her portrayal of the woman's disbelieving mother.

Pitoniak was also nominated for a Tony for her role in the 1994 revival of "Picnic." Among her other Broadway credits were "The Octette Bridge Club" (1985), "Amy's View" (1999) with Judi Dench, "Uncle Vanya" (2000), "Dance of Death" (2001) with Ian McKellen and Helen Mirren, and "Imaginary Friends" (2002).

Survivors include her son and a daughter, Susan.