Scales Family Genealogy & History

Prunella Scales, a celebrated English actress, is renowned for her iconic role as Sybil Fawlty in the BBC comedy "Fawlty Towers." Her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II in Alan Bennett's "A Question of Attribution" earned her a British Academy Television Award nomination. Scales also captivated audiences in the Laurence Olivier Award-nominated performances in "Make and Break" and "Single Spies." Her versatile career includes roles in TV series like "Mapp & Lucia," and films such as "Howards End" and "The Wicked Lady," solidifying her status as a beloved figure in British entertainment.

Born in Sutton Abinger, Surrey, Prunella Scales is the daughter of John Richardson Illingworth, a WWI and WWII veteran, and Catherine "Bim" Scales, a former actress. Her family relocated to Devon during WWII, and her brother Timothy Illingworth later achieved the rank of lieutenant colonel in the Royal Irish Rangers. Scales' early education was marked by scholarships to Moira House School and the Old Vic Theatre School, fostering her path to a distinguished acting career.

John Robert Scales, born on 4 July 1966, is a celebrated English former professional footballer known for his role as a central defender. Throughout his career from 1984 to 2001, Scales made significant contributions to major clubs including Wimbledon, Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur, and Ipswich Town. Notably, he was part of the Wimbledon team that clinched the FA Cup in 1988 and helped Liverpool win the Football League Cup in 1995. Scales earned three caps for England in 1995 and also contributed to the national team as a coach for the Danone Nations Cup. Beyond football, he serves as a company chairman for "Be Sport" and provides insights as a co-commentator for BBC Radio 5 Live.

Alfred Moore Scales was a prominent figure in North Carolina's history, serving as the 45th Governor from 1885 to 1889. A Confederate general during the American Civil War, he fought valiantly with Robert E. Lee's Army of Northern Virginia, notably at the Battle of Gettysburg. Scales also had a distinguished political career as a North Carolina state legislator and U.S. Congressman. His legal career began after studying under Judge William H. Battle, leading to his appointment as county solicitor in 1852. His leadership and service during the Civil War, particularly in battles like Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville, marked him as a significant military leader.

Robert H. Scales, a distinguished U.S. Army Major General, served as Commandant of the U.S. Army War College and was recognized for his contributions as a military analyst, commentator, and author. His career highlights include commanding the U.S. Army Field Artillery School and directing the Desert Storm Special Study Group. Scales authored several influential military books, such as "Certain Victory," and held notable roles like the Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz Lecturer at UC Berkeley. His insights on military strategy earned him roles as a commentator on NPR and Fox News, enhancing his reputation in military circles.

Robert Scales was born in Gainesville, Florida, in 1944. His father, Robert Scales Sr., was a career U.S. Army officer who served during World War II, piloting amphibious landing craft in the Pacific. Scales is survived by two daughters, both of whom followed in his footsteps by joining the U.S. Army. His family background reflects a strong military tradition, deeply rooted in service to the nation.