India, June 29 -- Penelope Keith, the actress who became a household name through The Good Life and To the Manor Born, has died at the age of 86. Her family confirmed that she passed away peacefully at her home in Surrey after battling with cancer, bringing the curtain down on a career that entertained audiences for more than six decades.

In a statement, her family said, "We are deeply saddened to announce that Dame Penelope Keith died peacefully whilst living with cancer at her home in Surrey where she had lived for more than 50 years. The family is grateful for the care and support she received throughout her treatments, and ask that their privacy be respected at this time."

From winning two BAFTA Awards to becoming one of Britain's m...