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– Phyllis McGuire, the last surviving member of the three McGuire Sisters who topped the charts in the 1950s, died. She was 89 years old. Dorothy and Christine McGuire’s lead singer and younger sister died on Tuesday in Las Vegas, AP reported. The cause of death was not provided. Known for their sweet harmonies and identical outfits and hairstyles, the McGuire Sisters won six gold records for successes, including “Sincerely” from 1954 and “Sugartime” from 1957. The group performed for five presidents and Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain. Brittany, and was inducted into the National Broadcasting Hall of Fame in 1994 and the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2001. Las Vegas Sun reported that Phyllis McGuire died in her mansion that she called “the Beverly Hills of Las Vegas” near downtown Las Vegas. The 26,000 square foot home includes a 45 foot version of the Eiffel Tower and a swan moat.
Her image changed when she was associated in 1965 with a Chicago mobster, Sam Giancana, for New York Times. In addition to organized crime, Giancana was reportedly linked to a CIA plot to assassinate Fidel Castro. After being under federal surveillance for years, McGuire and Giancana were called to testify before a grand jury in Chicago. She confirmed the relationship, but said she knew nothing about criminal activity. “It makes me look terrible,” she told reporters, adding, “My sisters and my parents – they are heartbroken over this.” The group retired in 1968, although Phyllis McGuire continued to appear in Las Vegas. She defended her relationship with Giancana, saying, “He was so wise about many things.” The sisters returned in 1985. “They brought the country together by singing wonderful songs,” said a friend. “Phyllis McGuire was beautiful, talented and part of the fascination of Las Vegas.”
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