She lit up our screens (95), he lit up the pitch (61)—now we say goodbye
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Two influential figures from vastly different worlds have left behind powerful legacies that touched countless lives.
Their recent passing has sparked tributes from fans, colleagues, and communities who remember their impact across generations.
From the small screen to the sporting arena, these stories remind us just how far a legacy can reach.
Sanford and Son actress Lynn Hamilton—best remembered as Donna Harris, Fred Sanford’s no-nonsense love interest—has died at the age of 95.
The beloved actress passed away of natural causes on 19 June, surrounded by those closest to her. Her former manager and publicist, Rev. Calvin Carson, confirmed the news in a heartfelt statement posted to social media, praising her enduring legacy and contributions across stage and screen.
‘With profound gratitude and admiration, we celebrate the extraordinary life of iconic actress Alzenia “Lynn” Hamilton-Jenkins, whose remarkable legacy continues to uplift and inspire,’ he wrote alongside photos of Hamilton throughout her life.
But for those who only knew her as Donna, there was far more to Hamilton’s career than her time on Sanford and Son.
Born in April 1930 in Yazoo City, Mississippi, Lynn moved to Chicago as a young girl and attended Bloom High School before honing her acting chops at Chicago’s Goodman Theatre. She built her craft onstage, performing in both Broadway and off-Broadway shows and working with the New York Shakespeare Festival for around three years—an experience that would shape a career spanning more than five decades.
While the spotlight found her on television in the 1970s, Hamilton’s early roles in the late 1950s and 1960s were often uncredited appearances in films. Her television career began gaining traction with small roles in Gunsmoke (1969), Hawaii Five-O (1971), and Barnaby Jones (1973), leading up to her breakthrough.
In 1972, she landed the role that made her a household name: Donna Harris on Sanford and Son. Appearing in 22 episodes across five years, Hamilton portrayed the level-headed nurse who shared a tender, often humorous relationship with Redd Foxx’s Fred Sanford—a dynamic fans adored.
One social media user wrote: ‘Her character on Sanford and Son made an impact and she wasn’t in but a handful of episodes. Shows what a great actress she was! And Donna was about the closest one to semi keep Fred in check lol. Not that anyone really could! Rest In Peace, Lynn. #RIP.’
Others echoed the sentiment, with one fan sharing: ‘It was always good to know Lynn Hamilton aka Donna Harris was still around. A great character actress and very nice lady. May Ms Hamilton forever rest in peace.’
Following her success on Sanford and Son, Hamilton took on another memorable role as Verdie Foster in The Waltons from 1973 to 1981. Her versatility shone through again in guest roles on Knight Rider, The Golden Girls, Days of Our Lives, The New Leave It to Beaver, and even ABC Afterschool Specials.
But her contributions didn’t stop at guest spots.
She played Vivian Porter in the groundbreaking soap Generations from 1989 to 1991—the first daytime soap to focus on an African-American family. Hamilton then went on to portray Cissie Johnson in Dangerous Women from 1991 to 1992, and continued appearing on television well into the 2000s, with roles on NYPD Blue, Curb Your Enthusiasm, and her final credited appearance on Cold Case in 2009.
Rev. Carson noted that some of her most ‘captivating performances’ included not just Sanford and Son, but also Roots: The Next Generation and Dangerous Women.
He also paid tribute to her creative and personal partnership with her husband, Frank S. Jenkins, revealing that the couple often collaborated on theatre productions, including Nobody and The Bert Williams Story.
‘Their partnership was a shining example of creativity, love, and dedication,’ he wrote.
Hamilton’s long list of accolades included the prestigious NAACP Award — a reflection of her significant impact on the arts and her community.
Upon the news of her passing, tributes poured in across social media.
‘She was on a lot of tv shows back in the day, wonderful actress,’ one user reflected.
Another wrote: ‘Loved her in everything I saw her in. An actress of great statute. Thank you for giving us so much pleasure.’
As Rev. Carson eloquently put it: ‘Her passing marks the end of an era, but her legacy will continue to inspire and uplift future generations.’
In the same week, the sporting world also farewelled a trailblazing cricket icon whose legacy reached far beyond the pitch.
The cricket world has farewelled a pioneering figure, with former England fast bowler David ‘Syd’ Lawrence passing away at the age of 61 after battling motor neurone disease (MND).
His death was announced late on Sunday (AEST), prompting an outpouring of grief and respect from both fans and the sporting community.
During Day 3 of the first test match between England and India, players from both teams paused for a minute’s applause—an emotional tribute that reflected Lawrence’s impact on and off the field.
Lawrence made history when he debuted for England in 1988, becoming the first British-born Black cricketer to represent the national side. While he only played five tests, taking 18 wickets—including three on debut against Sri Lanka—his contribution to English cricket went far beyond numbers.
BBC’s Test Match Special shared the news, stating: ‘It is with great sadness we report the passing of David “Syd” Lawrence. Syd, the first British-born black cricketer to represent England, was diagnosed with motor neurone disease last year. He has died at the age of 61.’
‘The former fast bowler will forever be an England and Gloucestershire legend.’
‘Our thoughts are with his family and friends, as well as everyone impacted by this horrible disease. Rest peacefully, Syd.’
While his international career was brief, it was his time at Gloucestershire that cemented his legacy. Lawrence featured in 170 first-class matches for the county, claiming 477 wickets at an average of 31.27.
‘A proud Gloucestershire man, Syd took on every challenge with everything he could and his final contest with MND was no different,’ his family said in a statement.
‘His willingness to encourage and think of others right up to the end was typical of the man he was.’
Lawrence was known for more than just his on-field pace—he was a passionate advocate following his diagnosis in 2023, dedicating his time to raising awareness and funds for MND research.
His tireless advocacy work earned him a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the King’s Birthday Honours earlier this month.
His family, who were by his side when he died, remembered him as an ‘inspirational figure on and off the cricket field.’
‘Syd was an inspirational figure on and off the cricket field and no more so than to his family who were with him when he passed.’
Lawrence’s courage, commitment, and contribution to sport and society have left a lasting imprint, one that will continue to resonate with the generations that follow.
As we farewell two remarkable lives that touched both stage and sport, we’re reminded of the power of passion, perseverance, and purpose. Lynn Hamilton and David ‘Syd’ Lawrence each left behind more than memories—they left legacies that will continue to inspire.
May they both rest in peace.
In a previous story, we reflected on the lives of a homegrown fashion innovator and a ‘hilarious’ TV star—two figures who brought style and laughter to Aussie households for decades.
For seniors who grew up watching these icons or wearing their creations, the memories still feel close to home.
If you missed that tribute, it’s well worth revisiting.
Read more: Reflecting on the lives of homegrown fashion innovator and 'hilarious' TV star
Their recent passing has sparked tributes from fans, colleagues, and communities who remember their impact across generations.
From the small screen to the sporting arena, these stories remind us just how far a legacy can reach.
Sanford and Son actress Lynn Hamilton—best remembered as Donna Harris, Fred Sanford’s no-nonsense love interest—has died at the age of 95.
The beloved actress passed away of natural causes on 19 June, surrounded by those closest to her. Her former manager and publicist, Rev. Calvin Carson, confirmed the news in a heartfelt statement posted to social media, praising her enduring legacy and contributions across stage and screen.
‘With profound gratitude and admiration, we celebrate the extraordinary life of iconic actress Alzenia “Lynn” Hamilton-Jenkins, whose remarkable legacy continues to uplift and inspire,’ he wrote alongside photos of Hamilton throughout her life.
Lynn Hamilton dies peacefully at age 95. Image source: Youtube/Real News
But for those who only knew her as Donna, there was far more to Hamilton’s career than her time on Sanford and Son.
Born in April 1930 in Yazoo City, Mississippi, Lynn moved to Chicago as a young girl and attended Bloom High School before honing her acting chops at Chicago’s Goodman Theatre. She built her craft onstage, performing in both Broadway and off-Broadway shows and working with the New York Shakespeare Festival for around three years—an experience that would shape a career spanning more than five decades.
While the spotlight found her on television in the 1970s, Hamilton’s early roles in the late 1950s and 1960s were often uncredited appearances in films. Her television career began gaining traction with small roles in Gunsmoke (1969), Hawaii Five-O (1971), and Barnaby Jones (1973), leading up to her breakthrough.
In 1972, she landed the role that made her a household name: Donna Harris on Sanford and Son. Appearing in 22 episodes across five years, Hamilton portrayed the level-headed nurse who shared a tender, often humorous relationship with Redd Foxx’s Fred Sanford—a dynamic fans adored.
One social media user wrote: ‘Her character on Sanford and Son made an impact and she wasn’t in but a handful of episodes. Shows what a great actress she was! And Donna was about the closest one to semi keep Fred in check lol. Not that anyone really could! Rest In Peace, Lynn. #RIP.’
Others echoed the sentiment, with one fan sharing: ‘It was always good to know Lynn Hamilton aka Donna Harris was still around. A great character actress and very nice lady. May Ms Hamilton forever rest in peace.’
Following her success on Sanford and Son, Hamilton took on another memorable role as Verdie Foster in The Waltons from 1973 to 1981. Her versatility shone through again in guest roles on Knight Rider, The Golden Girls, Days of Our Lives, The New Leave It to Beaver, and even ABC Afterschool Specials.
But her contributions didn’t stop at guest spots.
She played Vivian Porter in the groundbreaking soap Generations from 1989 to 1991—the first daytime soap to focus on an African-American family. Hamilton then went on to portray Cissie Johnson in Dangerous Women from 1991 to 1992, and continued appearing on television well into the 2000s, with roles on NYPD Blue, Curb Your Enthusiasm, and her final credited appearance on Cold Case in 2009.
Rev. Carson noted that some of her most ‘captivating performances’ included not just Sanford and Son, but also Roots: The Next Generation and Dangerous Women.
He also paid tribute to her creative and personal partnership with her husband, Frank S. Jenkins, revealing that the couple often collaborated on theatre productions, including Nobody and The Bert Williams Story.
‘Their partnership was a shining example of creativity, love, and dedication,’ he wrote.
Hamilton’s long list of accolades included the prestigious NAACP Award — a reflection of her significant impact on the arts and her community.
Upon the news of her passing, tributes poured in across social media.
‘She was on a lot of tv shows back in the day, wonderful actress,’ one user reflected.
Another wrote: ‘Loved her in everything I saw her in. An actress of great statute. Thank you for giving us so much pleasure.’
As Rev. Carson eloquently put it: ‘Her passing marks the end of an era, but her legacy will continue to inspire and uplift future generations.’
The cricket world has farewelled a pioneering figure, with former England fast bowler David ‘Syd’ Lawrence passing away at the age of 61 after battling motor neurone disease (MND).
His death was announced late on Sunday (AEST), prompting an outpouring of grief and respect from both fans and the sporting community.
Cricket mourns trailblazer David ‘Syd’ Lawrence. Image source: Youtube/talkSPORT
During Day 3 of the first test match between England and India, players from both teams paused for a minute’s applause—an emotional tribute that reflected Lawrence’s impact on and off the field.
Lawrence made history when he debuted for England in 1988, becoming the first British-born Black cricketer to represent the national side. While he only played five tests, taking 18 wickets—including three on debut against Sri Lanka—his contribution to English cricket went far beyond numbers.
BBC’s Test Match Special shared the news, stating: ‘It is with great sadness we report the passing of David “Syd” Lawrence. Syd, the first British-born black cricketer to represent England, was diagnosed with motor neurone disease last year. He has died at the age of 61.’
‘The former fast bowler will forever be an England and Gloucestershire legend.’
‘Our thoughts are with his family and friends, as well as everyone impacted by this horrible disease. Rest peacefully, Syd.’
While his international career was brief, it was his time at Gloucestershire that cemented his legacy. Lawrence featured in 170 first-class matches for the county, claiming 477 wickets at an average of 31.27.
‘A proud Gloucestershire man, Syd took on every challenge with everything he could and his final contest with MND was no different,’ his family said in a statement.
‘His willingness to encourage and think of others right up to the end was typical of the man he was.’
Lawrence was known for more than just his on-field pace—he was a passionate advocate following his diagnosis in 2023, dedicating his time to raising awareness and funds for MND research.
His tireless advocacy work earned him a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the King’s Birthday Honours earlier this month.
His family, who were by his side when he died, remembered him as an ‘inspirational figure on and off the cricket field.’
‘Syd was an inspirational figure on and off the cricket field and no more so than to his family who were with him when he passed.’
Lawrence’s courage, commitment, and contribution to sport and society have left a lasting imprint, one that will continue to resonate with the generations that follow.
As we farewell two remarkable lives that touched both stage and sport, we’re reminded of the power of passion, perseverance, and purpose. Lynn Hamilton and David ‘Syd’ Lawrence each left behind more than memories—they left legacies that will continue to inspire.
May they both rest in peace.
In a previous story, we reflected on the lives of a homegrown fashion innovator and a ‘hilarious’ TV star—two figures who brought style and laughter to Aussie households for decades.
For seniors who grew up watching these icons or wearing their creations, the memories still feel close to home.
If you missed that tribute, it’s well worth revisiting.
Read more: Reflecting on the lives of homegrown fashion innovator and 'hilarious' TV star
