The ‘Story Princess’ Alene Chapin, 71, Dies

SALT LAKE CITY —  Alene Chapin, the “Story Princess” who started spinning tales in her own nursery school and ended up with a nationwide television audience, has died in Salt Lake City.

Mrs. Chapin was 71 and died at a hospital Tuesday. A hospital spokesman said she died of “natural causes” but didn’t elaborate.

With her wand, crown and dress layered with flounces, she appeared on “The Kate Smith Show,” “The Perry Como Show” and “The Howdy Doody Show.” She also played the characters “Princess Summerfall Winterspring” and “Heididoody” on that puppet show of the 1950s.

She also was a successful author of books, among them “My Picture Book of Songs.” She also wrote the song, “Mom Says Not to Worry,” recorded by the King Sisters.

Before turning to television, she taught in public schools and then founded a nursery school.

The “Story Princess” character she created was widely watched in Salt Lake City before it became known nationally.