Harry Townes was born and passed away in Huntsville, Alabama, where he dedicated his life to serving as an ordained Episcopal priest. Beyond his hometown and his priestly duties, Townes enjoyed a remarkable, prolific, and lengthy career as a character actor in films and television. In the 1930s, he attended the University of Alabama, but later relocated to New York to pursue his passion for acting. He eventually found his niche at Columbia University, where he earned his undergraduate degree.
After completing his education, Townes made his stage debut in 1936, playing the role of Captain Tim in "Tobacco Road". Two years later, he took on the part of a leprechaun in "Finian's Rainbow", a role that also led him to perform in London. Following a series of film appearances, Townes found his greatest success on television, amassing a vast portfolio of roles for his diverse array of characters. He contributed to several notable television programs, including Studio One (1948),Playhouse 90 (1956),and Ponds Theater (1953).
The popular television shows Gunsmoke (1955),Perry Mason (1957),Star Trek (1966),Rawhide (1959),and Bonanza (1959) also benefited from Townes' acting talents. Although he continued to perform occasionally into old age, Townes eventually left his Beverly Hills home and lifestyle, entered the priesthood, and returned to his hometown of Huntsville in the 1970s.
