Later in life, Milford returned to New York State, settling in Saugerties. There, she undertook the restoration of a historic home, a project that mirrored her approach to acting: patient, detail-oriented, and grounded in respect for what already existed. Those close to her said she found peace in that work, enjoying the balance of solitude and purpose.
Milford’s personal life was private by design. She was briefly married to poet Michael Lally, a relationship rooted in shared artistic values, though the marriage did not last. She did not remarry and had no children, but maintained close relationships with her siblings and extended family.
In an industry that often rewards volume over substance, Penelope Milford built a career on the opposite principle. She did not chase constant relevance. She did not reinvent herself for trends. She worked when the work mattered to her and stepped back when it didn’t. As a result, her performances have aged well, retaining their emotional precision long after flashier roles have faded. Continue reading…
