Golden Girls and The Waltons star Lynn Hamilton dies as devastated family pay tribute

Actor Lynn Hamilton has died, aged 95, it's been announced. The news has prompted tributes to Lynn, whose decades-long career included appearances in TV shows such as Sanford and Son, the Golden Girls and the Waltons.

The news of her death has been shared by Reverend Dr Calvin Carson, who's said to be her former manager and publicist. He's announced that Lynn died "peacefully" on Thursday surrounded by 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," a statement said.

Lynn had a recurring role as Donna Harris on the sitcom Sanford and Son from 1972 to 1977, with her character becoming the partner of Fred Sanford (played by Redd Foxx). The NBC show is said to have been inspired by the BBC's Steptoe and Son, which aired in the UK from 1962 to 1974.

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She later starred as Verdie Foster in the Waltons, with her having appeared on the CBS show from 1973 to 1981. The character becomes friends with the titular family and is said to have featured in more than a dozen episodes.

Lynn's also credited with playing Trudy in an episode of the Golden Girls in 1988. Trudy was introduced as the aunt of Lorraine Wagner (Rosalind Cash), who married Michael Zbornak (Scott Jacoby), the son of Dorothy Zbornak (Bea Arthur).

The actor appeared in numerous other shows over the course of her career too. Her credits include playing cousin Georgia Anderson in Roots: The Next Generation in 1979 and Judge P. Fulton in the Practice from 1997 to 2002.

Lynn is said to have also worked alongside her late husband Frank S. Jenkins, who died aged 89 in 2014, over the years. She had married the poet and playwright in 1964.

The statement shared by Rev. Calvin on Facebook paid tribute to Lynn amid announcing her death. It began: "Without profound gratitude and admiration, we celebrate the extraordinary life of iconic actress Alzenia 'Lynn' Hamilton-Jenkins, whose remarkable legacy continues to uplift and inspire."

It continued: "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." The post said that her "captivating performances" continue to "inspire new generations".

The statement added that Lynn was the recipient of the NAACP Award. It described the achievement as a "testament to her outstanding contributions" to the industry.

It also said that Lynn collaborated with her husband Frank on various theatre productions. Their partnership was referred to as a "shining example of creativity, love and dedication" in the statement released this weekened.

The news has prompted further tributes to Lynn on social media. One person wrote on X: "Oh no, what a loss. She was wonderful in everything she did. Rest in peace, Lynn Hamilton." Another said: "Lynn Hamilton brought dignity and grace to her memorable performances. Rest in Peace."

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