EARTHA KITT

Eartha Kitt a singer, dancer and actress who rose from South Carolina cotton fields to become an international symbol of elegance and sensuality, has died at the age of 81.

Andrew Freedman said Kitt, who was recently treated at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital, died Thursday of colon cancer.

Kitt, a self-proclaimed “sex kitten” famous for her catlike purr, was one of America’s most versatile performers, winning two Emmys and nabbing a third nomination. She also was nominated for several Tonys and two Grammys.