Barbara Billingsley, the actress who played the ideal American mother June Cleaver in the 1950s television series Leave It To Beaver died at the age of 94, according to Judy Twersky, a family representative.

Ms Billingsley died in Santa Monica on Saturday after a long illness, said a statement from Ms Twersky.

The hugely popular show debuted in 1957 featuring Ms Billingsley in the role of a sweet-natured stay-at-home mom who wore high heels, dresses and pearls as she baked cookies and took care of her two sons and husband. The show aired until 1963.

“America’s favourite mother is now gone. I feel very fortunate to have been her ‘son’ for 11 years,” said Tony Dow, who played Wally Cleaver. “We were wonderful friends and I will miss her very much.”

Ms Billingsley, who began her career as a model before venturing into acting, was married three times and leaves behind two sons, Drew and Glenn.

“Our mom was truly the best mother. She was every bit as nurturing, classy, and lovely as ‘June Cleaver’ and we were so proud to share her with the world,” said Glenn Billingsley.