227 cast members Marla Gibbs, Regina King, and Jackée Harry paid tribute to their former castmate Hal Williams, who died at age 91 on July 15 at his home in Rancho Mirage, California, a representative told Deadline.
Williams’ TV wife, Gibbs, reflected on his life and legacy on Instagram while sharing a carousel of photos from the 1980s sitcom. She remembered Williams as a dear friend who supported her family, young artists, and the community.
Gibbs recalled that their friendship began before 227 aired, when Williams participated in the original stage production at Crossroads Theater. She also shared that she fought for her character, Mary Jenkins, to have a husband on the television series, leading to the beloved on-screen family of Mary, Lester (Williams), and Sandra (Regina King) for five seasons.
Williams’ TV daughter, King, who played Brenda on the show, also reflected on his memory while sharing a video highlight of a scene featuring the two of them on the sitcom. She remembered him as a source of safety, stability, and love throughout her childhood.
The award winning actress and director shared that Williams protected her from the noise and politics of the entertainment industry, allowing her to feel cared for and simply be young while working on set. She also reflected on the special bond they shared, especially during a time when her own father was not always available.
She ended her tribute by telling Williams that this is not goodbye, but “see you later,” adding, “I love you. Live in peace, Dad.”
Harry, who played the stylish and gossipy neighbor Sandra Clark, shared a photo of herself with Williams and wrote:
“What a gentleman. Hal always carried himself with grace, and he always had me laughing. I’ll never forget him telling me to trade in my little Mercedes because, ‘You’re a star now!’
“He was also a stand-up guy who believed Black fathers on TV should be loving, present, and compassionate. He helped show America what that looked like.
“I’m so lucky to have worked closely with him. Rest in peace, my dear friend.”
Williams, who was a regular presence on television, appearing on shows such as Good Times, Sanford and Son, and The Waltons, starred in the 1985–1990 sitcom 227, which centered on a Black middle-class family living in Washington, D.C.
The Ohio native also made appearances in shows including Moesha, Knots Landing, The Dick Van Dyke Show, Night Court, The Dukes of Hazzard, Magnum, P.I., Gunsmoke, Quincy, M.E., The Waltons, Webster, and Hill Street Blues.
Before beginning his career in Hollywood, Williams worked as a social worker, corrections officer, and postal worker. He is survived by three children, three grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.
