Weber, Lois (1881–1939)

American film director. Name variations: Mrs. Phillips Smalley. Born Florence Lois Weber, June 13, 1881, in Allegheny City, Pennsylvania; died Nov 13, 1939, in Los Angeles, California; dau. of George Weber (decorator) and Mary Matilda (Snaman) Weber; m. Phillips Smalley, May 1905 (div. 1922); m. Captain Harry Gantz; no children.

One of the most important and prolific film directors in the era of silent films, brought to the screen her concerns for humanity and social justice in over 400 films; toured as a concert pianist at age 17; joined a theatrical touring company, where she met Phillips Smalley; began work as writer, actor, and director for Gaumont film (c. …