Melinda Ruth Dillon (October 13, 1939 – January 9, 2023) was an American actress celebrated for her work in film, television, and theatre. She received Academy Award nominations for her performances in Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977), where she portrayed Jillian Guiler, and Absence of Malice (1981). Her other notable film credits include Bound for Glory (1976), Harry and the Hendersons (1987), The Prince of Tides (1991), and A Christmas Story (1983), in which she played Mrs. Parker. Dillon was widely respected for her naturalistic performances and became one of Hollywood's most accomplished character actresses.