'Gunsmoke' Actor James Arness and His Touching Last Words To Fans: 13 Years After His Tragic Death

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He was born James King Aurness on May 26, 1923, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and died as actor James Arness on June 3, 2011, in Los Angeles, CA. Best known as the iconic Marshall Matt Dillion who ruled over Dodge City on TV's long-running and beloved Western, Gunsmoke (CBS, 1955-1975), Arness was 88 years old.

Before Gunsmoke

Years before he made his TV debut as Matt Dillon on Gunsmoke, James Arness wed Virginia Chapman in 1948. They began a family along with her adopted son, Craig. The union lasted until their divorce in 1963.

At first, Arness found it challenging to balance stardom and his personal life. The trials and tribulations that come with being in the Hollywood spotlight can sometimes prove overwhelming. For one, Chapman died of a drug overdose in 1977.

Fortunately, Arness found love again with his second wife, Janet Surtrees, with whom he remained married until the day he died.

However, before he passed away, the kind-heart actor asked his beloved spouse to post a note throughout social to his dedicated fans after his demise; proof in the pudding as to the actor's sincerity, integrity and humanity (similar to his most renowned role as Matt Dillion).

In addition to Gunsmoke, Arness made countless other appearances on television, and also in feature films. He mentioned another of those TV shows, as well as one of his movies, in his final, if posthomous, communication to his devoted followers.

Here, now are those famous last words:

“I decided to write a letter to you for Janet to post on our website in the event I was no longer here. I had a wonderful life and was blessed with some many loving people and great friends. The best part of my life was my family, especially my wife Janet. Many of you met her at Dodge City so you understand what a special person she is. I wanted to take this time to thank all of you for the many years of being a fan of Gunsmoke, The Thing, How the West Was Won and all the other fun projects I was lucky enough to have been allowed to be a part of. I had the privilege of working with so many great actors over the years. I was honored to have served in the army for my country. I was at Anzio during WWII and it makes you realize how very precious life is. Thank you again for all the many letters, cards, emails and gifts we received from you over the years. You are and always have been truly appreciated. - Sincerely, Jim Arness"