Some sitcoms are instantly recognizable names even though they haven’t been on the air for decades.
That’s certainly true of Sanford and Son and The Waltons. They’re two of the most beloved sitcoms in television history and actress Lynn Hamilton starred in them both.
Now she’s sadly passed away at the age of 95.
Hamilton died on June 19, Variety reported. A cause of death was not given.
Hamilton played Donna Harris on Sanford and Son from 1972 to 1977 and Verdie Grant Foster on The Waltons from 1973 to 1981, noted Variety.
On June 19, her former manager and publicist, Dr. Calvin Carson announced her death on his Facebook page, writing, “With profound gratitude and admiration, we celebrate the extraordinary life of iconic actress Alzenia ‘Lynn’ Hamilton-Jenkins, whose remarkable legacy continues to uplift and inspire.”
He added: “Her illustrious career, spanning over five decades, has left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment, motivating audiences across the globe through her work as a model, stage, film, and television actress.
Her captivating performances in notable works such as Sanford and Son, where she played Nurse Donna Harris, Dangerous Women, Roots: The Next Generation, A Dream for Christmas, Generations (the first Black soap opera), The Waltons, The Jesse Owens Story, The Practice, and Lady Sings the Blues continue to inspire new generations.”
“Lynn was also the recipient of the prestigious NAACP Award, a testament to her outstanding contributions to the entertainment industry,” he added.
“Throughout her remarkable career, Lynn frequently collaborated with her husband, Frank S. Jenkins, on various theater productions,” he wrote, noting that she died, “surrounded by her grandchildren, loved ones and caregivers. Her passing marks the end of an era, but her legacy will continue to inspire and uplift future generations.”
