Mary Katherine Linaker, known professionally as "Kay Linaker", "Kate Phillips", and "Kay Linaker-Phillips" (b. July 13, 1913 in Pine Bluff, Arkansas - d. April 18, 2008 in Keene, New Hampshire) was an American actress and screenwriter, who appeared in many B movies during the 1930s and 1940s, most notably Kitty Foyle (1940). Linaker used her married name (Kay Phillips) as a screenwriter, notably for the cult movie hit The Blob (1958). She is credited with coining the name "The Blob" for the movie, which was originally titled "The Molten Meteor."[1]
Linaker graduated from New York University and acted in supporting roles on Broadway before signing a film contract with Warner Bros..[1]
She later taught in the film studies department at Keene State College in New Hampshire from 1980 to 2006.[2]
From the 1960s to her death, unbeknown to most, Mrs. Phillips dedicated much of her time supporting the children at Hampshire Country School in Rindge, New Hampshire. Mrs. Phillips volunteered countless hours over the many years as English teacher and drama coach at the very small private school for twice exceptional children whose alumni include Dr. Temple Grandin.