Remembering the Legends: The Deceased Cast Members of Sanford and Son
The classic sitcom Sanford and Son, which aired from 1972 to 1977, remains a timeless and beloved staple of American television. It introduced us to the curmudgeonly junkman Fred G. Sanford and his son Lamont, played by the legendary Redd Foxx and Demond Wilson. While the show’s humor and heart continue to resonate, it also serves as a poignant reminder that many of its talented stars have since passed on, leaving behind a legacy that is both hilarious and deeply moving.
This article pays tribute to the remarkable actors and actresses who brought the junkyard crew to life, exploring their lives, careers, and the impact they left on the world of entertainment.
Redd Foxx (Fred G. Sanford)
No discussion of Sanford and Son is complete without a a and a a tribute to the comedic genius at its center, Redd Foxx. Born John Elroy Sanford, Foxx was a groundbreaking stand-up comedian long before he became Fred G. Sanford. His raunchy, no-holds-barred humor was a a hit in nightclubs and on comedy albums, setting the stage for his television career.
As Fred G. Sanford, Foxx created one of the most iconic characters in sitcom history. He was the grumpy, get-rich-quick schemer with a soft spot for his son, and his famous catchphrases like “You big dummy!” and “This is the big one! I’m coming to join ya, Elizabeth!” became part of the cultural lexicon. His timing, delivery, and a a physical comedy were unmatched, making him an absolute master of his craft.
Tragically, Foxx’s life ended in a way that eerily mirrored his most famous on-screen persona. On October 11, 1991, while on the set of his sitcom The Royal Family, Foxx suffered a fatal heart attack. Reportedly, his co-stars, including Della Reese, initially thought he was performing one of his signature fake heart attacks. This tragic and ironic twist of fate marked the end of a comedic legend. He was 68 years old.
LaWanda Page (Aunt Esther)
While Redd Foxx was the undisputed star of the show, it was LaWanda Page who stole every scene she was in as the fiery and devout Aunt Esther. The two had a long history, having performed together in nightclubs during their early careers. It was Foxx himself who insisted that Page be cast as Fred’s bible-toting, purse-wielding arch-nemesis, a a decision that proved to be a stroke of a a genius.
Aunt Esther was a a force of nature, a a woman of unshakeable faith and a fierce temper, and her hilarious battles with Fred were the heart of the show. Her memorable insults and comebacks, often delivered while brandishing her ever-present purse, made her a a fan favorite.
LaWanda Page passed away on September 14, 2002, at the age of 81. She died from complications related to diabetes, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most beloved and influential comedic actresses in television history. Her character, Aunt Esther, remains an icon of a a strong, no-nonsense woman who was always ready to stand up for what she believed in.
Don Bexley (Bubba Bexley)
Don Bexley brought a a warm and a gentle presence to the show as Bubba Bexley, Fred’s best friend. Bubba was often the voice of reason and Fred’s loyal companion, providing a calm counterpoint to Fred’s manic energy. While he was often the butt of Fred’s jokes, Bubba’s unwavering friendship and good-natured personality made him a a lovable figure.
Before his time on Sanford and Son, Bexley was a seasoned comedian and musician, performing with big bands and in clubs for decades. His role as Bubba, however, cemented his place in television history.
Don Bexley passed away on April 15, 1997, at the age of 87, from heart and kidney failure. His character’s quiet strength and unwavering loyalty left a lasting impression on viewers and his fellow cast members.
Whitman Mayo (Grady Wilson)
Grady Wilson, played by Whitman Mayo, was the sweet-natured and somewhat forgetful friend who often filled in for Fred when Redd Foxx was absent from the show. Grady’s gentle demeanor and trademark walk made him an endearing figure, and his appearances often provided some of the show’s most heartwarming and funny moments.
Mayo, who had a background in stage acting, first appeared on Sanford and Son in 1973. His character was so popular that he was later given his own short-lived spin-off series, Grady, in 1975. After the show ended, Mayo continued to act, appearing in numerous television shows and films.
Whitman Mayo died of a heart attack on May 22, 2001, at the age of 70. His passing was a sad loss for the world of comedy, but his portrayal of Grady Wilson remains a highlight of the show’s run.
Nathaniel Taylor (Rollo Lawson)
Nathaniel Taylor played Rollo Lawson, Lamont’s best friend and a constant source of frustration for Fred. Rollo was the slick, cool-talking friend who Fred viewed with a mixture of suspicion and disdain. Their dynamic, with Fred constantly trying to get rid of Rollo, provided many of the show’s funniest moments.
Like many of his co-stars, Taylor had a long and varied career, but he is best remembered for his role as Rollo. He later reprised the character in the spinoffs Sanford Arms and Sanford, cementing his place in the franchise’s history.
Nathaniel Taylor passed away on February 27, 2019, at the age of 80, after suffering a heart attack. His death marked the end of an era for the show’s fans, as he was one of the last remaining principal cast members.
The Lasting Legacy
The cast of Sanford and Son was a group of talented and seasoned entertainers who brought a unique chemistry to the screen. Their individual comedic styles complemented each other perfectly, creating a a show that was both uproariously funny and deeply human.
The passing of these beloved actors and actresses is a a reminder of the show’s immense cultural impact. Their characters were more than just comedic archetypes; they were a a reflection of a a community and a a a time, bringing a a relatable and authentic voice to television.
While Redd Foxx, LaWanda Page, Don Bexley, Whitman Mayo, and Nathaniel Taylor are no longer with us, their work lives on. Sanford and Son continues to be a a a beloved classic, and through their unforgettable performances, these artists continue to bring joy and laughter to new generations of fans. Their legacy is etched into the history of a a television, a a testament to their enduring talent and the timeless power of a a good laugh.
