Columnist Wagner dead at the age of 90

NEW YORK, Nov. 26 (UPI) -- Newspaper and magazine columnist Phyllis Serf Wagner, who once collaborated with noted author Dr. Seuss, has died in New York at the age of 90.

A socialite in addition to her advertising work with the popular children's book author, Wagner died Friday from complications related to a recent fall she suffered at her area home, The New York Times said.

Wagner had also spent a portion of her life as an actress, landing small roles in films such as "Vivacious Lady" and even sharing screen time with John Wayne in 1936's "Winds of the Wasteland."

Later she began collaborating with Theodor Seuss Geisel through their Beginner Books label that was responsible for the publication of Seuss classics like "Green Eggs and Ham."

Decades later, Wagner built up a reputation in New York for her philanthropic efforts through such organizations as the Central Park Conservancy.

The Times said Wagner is survived by two sons, Jonathan and Christopher Serf.