For nearly a decade, Everybody Loves Raymond made millions laugh with its hilarious look at family life, love, and all the chaos in between.
The sitcom — which ran from 1996 to 2005 — starred Ray Romano, Patricia Heaton, Brad Garrett, Doris Roberts, Peter Boyle, and the Sweeten twins, and remains one of the most beloved shows in television history.
But as fans look back on the comedy’s brilliance, they also remember the talented stars we’ve lost over the years.
In this article, we’ll honor the Everybody Loves Raymond cast members who have passed away, celebrating their lives, careers, and the joy they brought into our homes.
Doris Roberts (Marie Barone) — The Matriarch Who Stole Every Scene
It’s impossible to imagine Everybody Loves Raymond without Doris Roberts.
As Marie Barone, she played the overbearing yet lovable mother whose constant meddling was both maddening and endearing. Her sharp wit, unmatched timing, and perfect delivery made her one of TV’s greatest sitcom moms.
Sadly, Doris Roberts passed away on April 17, 2016, at the age of 90.
Her death marked the loss of a true television legend — a five-time Emmy Award winner whose career spanned over six decades, with roles in shows like Remington Steele, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, and Touched by an Angel.
Even today, her portrayal of Marie Barone remains one of the most iconic characters in sitcom history.
Peter Boyle (Frank Barone) — The Tough Dad with a Heart of Gold
Peter Boyle, who played the gruff yet lovable Frank Barone, was another unforgettable part of the show’s magic.
Known for his sarcastic one-liners, old-school wisdom, and surprising moments of warmth, Frank was the perfect foil to Marie’s motherly domination.
Before Everybody Loves Raymond, Boyle had already made his mark in Hollywood with his standout role in Young Frankenstein and as Robert De Niro’s philosophical friend in Taxi Driver.
Tragically, Peter Boyle passed away on December 12, 2006, at the age of 71, due to multiple myeloma and heart disease.
His co-stars remembered him as a brilliant actor with impeccable timing and a gentle spirit behind the grumpy dad persona. Ray Romano once said,
“Peter was as kind and smart as he was funny — and that’s saying a lot.”
Sawyer Sweeten (Geoffrey Barone) — A Life Gone Too Soon
Perhaps the most heartbreaking loss from the Everybody Loves Raymond family is that of Sawyer Sweeten, who played Geoffrey Barone, one of Ray and Debra’s twin sons.
Sawyer and his twin brother Sullivan Sweeten grew up on the show, starting their roles at just 16 months old. Fans watched them transform from toddlers into teenagers before the show ended.
Tragically, Sawyer Sweeten passed away in 2015, at only 19 years old, after taking his own life.
The news devastated his castmates and fans alike. In a statement, the family wrote:
“He was a kind and wonderful young man. We will miss him deeply.”
Patricia Heaton shared,
“Sawyer was a funny and exceptionally bright young man. This is beyond words.”
His passing remains a painful reminder of the importance of mental health awareness, especially for child actors navigating fame at a young age.
Remembering the Legacy of These Stars
Each of these actors — Doris Roberts, Peter Boyle, and Sawyer Sweeten — brought something unique to Everybody Loves Raymond.
Their performances made audiences laugh, cry, and see their own families reflected on screen.
And though they may no longer be with us, their legacy lives on every time someone re-watches an episode and smiles at Marie’s meddling, Frank’s sarcasm, or Geoffrey’s innocent one-liners.
How the Cast Reacted to Their Losses
The Everybody Loves Raymond cast was famously close — on and off screen.
When each loss occurred, their reactions reflected genuine heartbreak and gratitude.
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After Peter Boyle’s death, Ray Romano and Brad Garrett attended his funeral, describing him as “a father figure and mentor.”
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When Doris Roberts passed, the cast reunited to celebrate her life. Patricia Heaton called her “a force of nature.”
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Following Sawyer Sweeten’s death, the entire Barone family came together privately to grieve and support the Sweeten family.
Ray Romano summed it up best:
“We were a family. We laughed together every day. Losing them hurts, but I’ll always be grateful for the time we had.”
The Emotional Impact on Fans
Even decades later, fans still feel a deep connection to the Everybody Loves Raymond cast.
Social media tributes pour in every year on the anniversaries of the stars’ passings. Viewers often describe how much the show helped them through difficult times — reminding them of the humor and heart of family life.
The love for these actors has only grown with time, proving that Everybody Loves Raymond wasn’t just a sitcom — it was comfort television.
The Remaining Cast Today
Thankfully, many of the main cast members are still thriving in Hollywood and beyond:
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Ray Romano continues to act in both comedy and drama, earning acclaim for roles in The Irishman and Made for Love.
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Patricia Heaton starred in The Middle and Carol’s Second Act, remaining one of TV’s favorite moms.
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Brad Garrett has had success in stand-up comedy and television, lending his voice to countless animated characters.
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Monica Horan (Amy Barone) continues to appear on stage and screen.
They all continue to honor their late co-stars through interviews, reunions, and heartfelt tributes.
30 Years Later: A Legacy That Still Shines
As the show celebrates its 30th anniversary, CBS and the original creators are planning a special tribute episode to honor the late Doris Roberts and Peter Boyle.
Fans can expect behind-the-scenes footage, emotional interviews, and stories that celebrate the humor and love that made Everybody Loves Raymond timeless.
It’s not just a look back — it’s a reminder that great comedy never dies.
Why ‘Everybody Loves Raymond’ Still Matters
Part of what makes Everybody Loves Raymond so enduring is its authenticity.
It wasn’t about grand plots or wild antics — it was about real family moments. From Marie’s guilt trips to Frank’s sarcasm and Ray’s hilarious laziness, it felt real.
And that’s why, even after losing some of its beloved cast members, the show continues to resonate across generations.
Conclusion
Time may have passed, but the laughter and love of Everybody Loves Raymond live on.
Doris Roberts, Peter Boyle, and Sawyer Sweeten may no longer be with us, but their warmth, humor, and humanity remain forever captured in the show’s nine unforgettable seasons.
They made us laugh until we cried — and then cry because they made us feel like family.
As we celebrate 30 years of Everybody Loves Raymond, we honor not just a sitcom, but a legacy built on laughter, love, and the unforgettable people who made it all possible.
FAQs
Q1: How many cast members from Everybody Loves Raymond have passed away?
Three major cast members — Doris Roberts, Peter Boyle, and Sawyer Sweeten — have sadly passed away.
Q2: What year did Sawyer Sweeten die?
Sawyer passed away in 2015 at the young age of 19.
Q3: How did the cast react to the losses?
They reunited for private memorials and public tributes, often describing the show as a real family.
Q4: Will there be a reunion or special episode?
Yes, CBS has announced a 30th anniversary tribute special to honor Doris Roberts and Peter Boyle.
Q5: Why is Everybody Loves Raymond still popular today?
Its humor, honesty, and relatable family dynamics make it timeless — even decades later.
