Lynn Hamilton dead: Golden Girls icon dies at home as fans pay tribute

Lynn Hamilton, star of Golden Girls and The Waltons, has sadly died at the age of 95. Her former manager Reverend Calvin Carson confirmed the news that Lynn died at her Chicago home on Thursday (June 19). In a statement, he said: "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.

"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 actress was best known for her roles as Donna Harris in Sanford and Son from 1972 until 1977, and for her stint as Trudy in The Golden Girls in 1988. She also appeared in everything from Curb Your Enthusiasm to Days of Our Lives, along with playing Verdie Grant in The Waltons.

Tributes have been flooding in from fans online, with one writing on social media: "Lynn Hamilton passed on at age 95. She led a great life and is now at peace."

Someone else echoed: "My condolences to Lynn's family, friends and caregiver." While a third fan wrote: "Sad to hear about the passing of veteran actress, Lynn Hamilton. Best known as a nurse and Fred Sanford's fiancé Donna Harris on Sanford and Son and Verdie Grant on The Waltons Hamilton had a long acting career, particularly in TV. She was 95. RIP Lynn Hamilton."

Lynn's co-star Judy Norton, who played Mary Ellen Walton in The Waltons, also paid tribute to the actress, penning on Instagram: "Received the sad news that we have lost a member of our Walton family. Lynn Hamilton passed away in her sleep at 95.

"We were blessed to know her and to have the gift of working with her. Her class and grace enhanced all our lives. Godspeed Lynn - till we meet again."