Born in Hartford, Connecticut, Katharine Hepburn (1907–2003) dazzled with fierce independence and sparkling intelligence. She brought a frank, modern spirit to classic Hollywood and invited audiences to think — and laugh — on their feet.

A woman who lived life by her own rules, Hepburn embodied independence and fierce self-esteem.

“If you're given a choice between money and sex appeal, take the money,” she advised. “As you get older, the money will become your sex appeal.”

The winner of a record four Academy Awards in a career that spanned five decades, she once observed, “I can't say I believe in prizes. I was a whiz in the three-legged race — that's something you CAN win.”

In Hollywood she defied the studio honchos, refused interviews, and wore slacks and unapologetically kept her face makeup free. “Live it, do it, or shut up,” she dared, making her own policies. “There are no laurels in life... just new challenges.”

She nixed marriage after a failed attempt and carried on a 25-year affair with Spencer Tracy. “If you want to sacrifice the admiration of many men for the criticism of one, go ahead, get married,” she quipped.

Unconventional. Incomparable. A college graduate. A chocoholic. A writer with a wealth of insight. Her performances were like no other. “Loved people are loving people,” she theorized.

Talented. Courageous. “Life is hard. After all, it kills you.” She was born in Connecticut and retired there. With typical self-deprecating wit she said, “People have grown fond of me, like some old building.”

A classic building.

“You can't change the music of your soul,” she believed. Through the years she remained true to the truth and beauty of its bold melody.

A classic soul.

Through her candor and courage, Hepburn showed that rules could be bent, laughter could be sharp, and truth could still shine with elegance. She lived as proof that independence is its own kind of grace — and that in daring to be oneself, life opens into freedom and joy.