Family Matters Actors You May Not Know Passed Away

familymatters 0

Family Matters was more than just a ‘90s sitcom — it was a beloved family tradition. With nine seasons, over 200 episodes, and an unforgettable ensemble cast, it created memories that still live on through reruns and streaming. While we often celebrate the stars who went on to have long careers, some cast members have sadly passed away — often without wide public knowledge.

In this article, we’ll honor the Family Matters actors you may not know passed away and reflect on the impact they had — both on the show and in real life.

1. Michelle Thomas (Myra Monkhouse)

Role: Steve Urkel’s Girlfriend

Date of Death: December 23, 1998

Age at Death: 30

Michelle Thomas played the sweet, intelligent, and charming Myra Monkhouse, who became a fan-favorite as Steve Urkel’s girlfriend and rival to Laura Winslow.

Sadly, Michelle passed away just one year after Family Matters ended. She died from a rare form of stomach cancer known as intra-abdominal desmoplastic small-round-cell tumor.

Despite her illness, Michelle continued to work and keep her condition private. She was also known for her role on The Young and the Restless and had a promising career ahead of her. Her death at such a young age shocked fans and castmates alike.

2. Rosetta LeNoire (Estelle “Mother” Winslow)

Role: Carl Winslow’s Mother

Date of Death: March 17, 2002

Age at Death: 90

Rosetta LeNoire portrayed Mother Winslow, the quick-witted and lovable grandmother who always had sage advice (and a little sass).

LeNoire wasn’t just a talented actress — she was a trailblazer in theater and television. She founded the Amas Repertory Theatre in New York, which focused on multiracial casting and diversity in the arts.

She passed away peacefully in 2002, but her contributions to both the arts and society continue to be remembered. In fact, she was awarded the National Medal of Arts by President Clinton in 1999.

3. Ron Glass (Guest Role: Captain Dave)

Role: Guest Appearance as Captain Dave

Date of Death: November 25, 2016

Age at Death: 71

Although not a mainstay on Family Matters, Ron Glass had a memorable guest appearance as a police captain.

Best known for his roles in Barney Miller and Firefly, Ron brought gravitas to every role he played. His passing in 2016 from respiratory failure saddened fans across generations.

4. Reginald VelJohnson (Still Alive – Common Mistake)

You might have heard false rumors that Reginald VelJohnson, who played Carl Winslow, passed away. But let’s clear the air: he’s very much alive.

These hoaxes have circulated for years, but VelJohnson has continued acting in film, TV, and holiday movies. He even made a playful reference to the rumors during interviews, showing his good sense of humor.

5. Sherman Hemsley (Guest Star: Captain Marion Savage)

Role: Guest Role as Police Officer

Date of Death: July 24, 2012

Age at Death: 74

Sherman Hemsley, famous for The Jeffersons, guest-starred in Family Matters as a tough but hilarious police captain.

His brief appearance delighted fans, but sadly, he passed away in 2012 due to lung complications. His legacy in sitcom history remains legendary.

6. James Avery (Guest Role: Harriette’s Boss)

Role: Harriette Winslow’s Boss (Guest Appearance)

Date of Death: December 31, 2013

Age at Death: 68

Best known as Uncle Phil from The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, James Avery also made a guest appearance in Family Matters as Harriette’s boss at the Chicago Chronicle.

His commanding presence and unmistakable voice left a lasting impression. Avery passed away in 2013 following complications from open-heart surgery, and he’s still deeply missed in the TV world.

Family Matters Cast Still With Us

Thankfully, many of the beloved main cast members are still alive and active in entertainment or advocacy:

  • Jaleel White (Steve Urkel)

  • Jo Marie Payton (Harriette Winslow)

  • Reginald VelJohnson (Carl Winslow)

  • Darius McCrary (Eddie Winslow)

  • Kellie Shanygne Williams (Laura Winslow)

  • Bryton James (formerly McClure, played Richie Crawford)

  • Shawn Harrison (Waldo Faldo)

  • Telma Hopkins (Rachel Crawford)

Each has gone on to pursue new careers or personal passions while staying connected to the show’s legacy through fan events and reunions.

Conclusion: A Legacy That Lives On

Family Matters wasn’t just another sitcom — it was a show with heart, values, and unforgettable characters. While a few of its beloved actors have passed away, their contributions continue to resonate with fans who grew up with them.

These actors brought laughter, life lessons, and soul to our screens, and they deserve to be remembered not just for their roles — but for the lives they touched through them.

Gone, but never forgotten.

FAQs

1. Did Michelle Thomas pass away during the show’s run?
No, she passed away in 1998, shortly after Family Matters ended its final season.

2. Is Reginald VelJohnson (Carl Winslow) still alive?
Yes! Despite years of internet death hoaxes, Reginald is alive and still working in TV and film.

3. Who played Mother Winslow, and when did she pass away?
Rosetta LeNoire played Estelle Winslow and passed away in 2002 at the age of 90.

4. What happened to Jaimee Foxworth (Judy Winslow)?
She’s alive and well. After personal struggles, she’s now an advocate for mental health and a proud mother.

5. Is there a Family Matters reboot or reunion planned?
While there’s no official reboot, many cast members have expressed interest in one. Fans continue to push for a reunion special.

Rate this post
Post Views: 860