The Winslow Family Lives On — But Some Members Are Deeply Missed
For millions who grew up in the 90s, Family Matters wasn’t just a sitcom — it was a weekly visit with the Winslow family.
Running from 1989 to 1998, the show gave us laughter, heartwarming lessons, and the unforgettable Steve Urkel.
While much of the cast continues to thrive in Hollywood, several beloved members of the Family Matters family have sadly passed away. Let’s take a heartfelt look back at those we’ve lost — and the legacies they left behind.
1. Rosetta LeNoire (Estelle “Mother Winslow” Winslow)
Rosetta LeNoire played Estelle Winslow, Carl’s wise and loving mother. Known affectionately as “Mother Winslow,” she was the glue that kept the family grounded.
LeNoire passed away in 2002 at the age of 90.
A veteran of stage and screen, she was also a pioneering advocate for diversity in theater. Her work with the Amas Repertory Theatre in New York helped promote racial equality in the performing arts — earning her the National Medal of Arts in 1999.
“She had a warmth that filled the room,” Reginald VelJohnson once said. “We all called her ‘Grandma’ even off-camera.”
2. Michelle Thomas (Myra Monkhouse)
Few Family Matters storylines were as beloved as Steve Urkel’s romantic saga — especially his relationship with Myra Monkhouse, played by Michelle Thomas.
Tragically, Thomas passed away in 1998 at just 30 years old, following a battle with a rare form of stomach cancer.
Her death deeply affected the cast and fans alike. Jaleel White, who played Steve Urkel, later shared an emotional tribute, calling her “one of the most beautiful souls I’ve ever known.”
Before Family Matters, Thomas was also known for roles on The Cosby Show and The Young and the Restless.
“She had a light in her that never dimmed,” White said. “Even when she was sick, she smiled for everyone around her.”
3. Julius Carry (Lieutenant Murtaugh)
Actor Julius Carry appeared in a recurring role as Lieutenant Murtaugh, Carl Winslow’s overbearing but well-meaning boss.
Carry, who also starred as the cult-favorite villain Sho’nuff in The Last Dragon (1985), passed away in 2008 at age 56 due to pancreatic cancer.
Though his Family Matters role was small, his impact was memorable — especially his comedic chemistry with Reginald VelJohnson.
4. Cherie Johnson’s On-Screen Grandmother — Actress Leola Henderson (Rachel’s Mother-In-Law, Guest Role)
Though not a mainstay, Leola Henderson, who made a brief guest appearance as Rachel’s in-law in early seasons, also passed away in the early 2000s.
She represented the extended Winslow family dynamic that helped make Family Matters feel so authentic and real.
5. Comedic Guest Appearances and Cameos
Over nine seasons, Family Matters featured numerous guest stars and supporting characters. Some of those actors — such as character performers Johnny Brown (Good Times, Family Matters cameo) and Ron Glass (guest episode) — have also passed in recent years.
Each brought humor, heart, and depth to the show’s community atmosphere.
6. How the Cast Honored Their Late Co-Stars
The Family Matters cast remains close-knit decades after the show ended.
In interviews and reunions, they often pay tribute to their late co-stars — especially Michelle Thomas and Rosetta LeNoire.
During a 2017 cast reunion on Entertainment Weekly, Jaleel White grew emotional when remembering Michelle Thomas:
“She was my friend, my TV girlfriend, and someone I deeply respected. Losing her was like losing family.”
7. What Made the ‘Family Matters’ Cast So Special
Part of what made Family Matters stand out was its genuine family dynamic — on and off screen. The actors weren’t just co-workers; they bonded deeply.
Reginald VelJohnson once said:
“We laughed, we argued, we ate together. It was a real family. And when we lost people, it hurt just as much as losing real relatives.”
That authenticity made the Winslows feel real to viewers — and why the losses hit so hard.
8. The Legacy of Those We Lost
Despite the passing of several cast members, their impact continues.
-
Mother Winslow remains a symbol of wisdom and warmth.
-
Myra Monkhouse still melts fans’ hearts in reruns.
-
And the show’s spirit of family, love, and laughter lives on.
Their work helped shape one of the most beloved sitcoms of all time.
9. Fans Continue to Pay Tribute
Even today, fans post memorial messages and tributes online.
On anniversaries of Michelle Thomas’s death, Jaleel White’s social media often fills with condolences and fond memories.
“Every time I rewatch Family Matters, I still feel their presence,” one fan wrote on Reddit. “They’re gone, but never forgotten.”
10. Conclusion: Their Family Still Matters
It’s been decades since Family Matters first aired, but its message — that love and family endure — still resonates.
As we remember Rosetta LeNoire, Michelle Thomas, Julius Carry, and others who have passed, we’re reminded that the Winslow legacy is eternal.
Their laughter, lessons, and love continue to live on — every time a fan presses play.
FAQs
1. How many Family Matters cast members have died?
At least three main recurring actors — Rosetta LeNoire, Michelle Thomas, and Julius Carry — have passed away.
2. What happened to Michelle Thomas?
She died in 1998 from a rare form of stomach cancer at age 30.
3. Who played Mother Winslow?
Rosetta LeNoire, who died in 2002 at age 90.
4. How does the cast honor their late co-stars?
They often mention them in interviews, reunions, and social media tributes.
5. Why does Family Matters still resonate today?
Its humor, family values, and timeless characters continue to connect across generations.
