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Lynn Hamilton was an American actress best known for her role as Donna Harris on the American sitcom, which ran from 1972 to 1977. Lynn was born in Yazoo City, Mississippi, and moved to Chicago Heights when she was twelve. She completed high school in the city and pursued an acting career after studying acting at Goodman Theatre.
Before her big break in Hollywood, Lynn appeared in four Broadway plays and several off-Broadway plays. Following her role as Donna, Hamilton also starred in The Waltons, where she played the recurring role of Verdie Grant Foster. Lynn Hamilton was also featured in films such as The New Girl, Brother John, The Seven Minutes, Hang Up, The Practice, Moesha, Generations, and Dangerous Women.
Lynn Hamilton married Frank Jenkins in 1964. They were married for 49 years until he died in 2014. Lynn passed away on June 19, 2025, and is survived by one child.
More details on Lynn Hamilton’s passing
On Friday, June 20, 2025, Rev. Calvin Carson announced the passing of Lynn Hamilton via an Instagram post. The reverend, the late actress’s former publicist and manager, shared a carousel of images showcasing Hamilton’s acting career.
In the caption of the post, which he titled “Statement on the Passing of Legendary Actress Lynn Hamilton at 95 Years Old,” Carson celebrated Lynn’s illustrious career, listing some of her popular works as an actress.
“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. Her captivating performances in notable works such as "Sanford and Son," where she played Nurse Donna Harris, "Dangerous Women," "Roots: The Next Generation," "A Dream for Christmas," "Generations" (the first Black soap opera), "The Waltons," "The Jesse Owens Story," "The Practice," and "Lady Sings the Blues" continue to inspire new generations.”
He also mentions her achievements and the works she collaborated on with her late husband.
“Lynn was also the recipient of the prestigious NAACP Award, a testament to her outstanding contributions to the entertainment industry. Throughout her remarkable career, Lynn frequently collaborated with her husband, Frank S. Jenkins, on various theater productions, including the acclaimed play "Nobody," "The Bert Williams Story." Their partnership was a shining example of creativity, love, and dedication.”
Hamilton passed away due to natural causes, surrounded by her grandchildren, loved ones, and caretakers.
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The actress passed away at age 95, eleven years after the death of her husband.
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