Contributed byJim Welch

Donna Douglas as Elly May in The Beverly Hillbillies

Jim Welch had the pleasure of spending a Saturday afternoon recently with Donna Douglas, best known for her role as Elly May. The actress was in S.C. for a few days and was a special guest a the Saddle Pals barbecue in Gaffney. Douglas was Miss New Orleans in 1957 and starred in The Beverly Hillbillies from 1962-1971.

In 1965, she co-starred with Elvis Presley in the United Artists film, Frankie and Johnny . Welch said when he asked her about Elvis, she quickly responded, "I don't want to go there. Please, let's just forget about it." So the two talked about the Elly May years. Welch said she is as charming and beautiful in person as she is on television and very friendly.

Jim Welch, host of NatureScene and Donna Douglas, of The Beverly Hillbillies