Sadly, Sherman Hemsley has Passed at 74

Sherman Hemsley

Our dear friend, Jefferson the movin’ on up  Dry Cleaner, and Deacon Frye on “Amen”, Sherman Hemsley has passed away in his El Paso home at the age of 74.  The beloved actor brought to our lives  Jefferson, neighbor of Archie and Edith Bunker on the controversial and popular situation comedy, “All in the Family”, in those days of change when many Americans were forming opinions on  matters racial that they would keep for life.

“All in the Family” was among the first sit-coms to produce a spin-off, and “The Jeffersons” came into being. That was the immensely successful story of brisk and lovable George Jefferson, a successful New York City Dry-Cleaner,  his tolerant wife Louise, and their patient and wise-cracking housekeeper, Florence. Her asides were a joy and a pleasure.

Hemsley went on to bring life to Deacon Frye of the First Community church of Philadelphia (Mr. Hemsley’s actual home town). His daughter was a most memorable character, 36 year old Thelma Frye, portrayed by Anna Maria Horsford. Thelma was the light of life of The Reverend Reuben Gregory, played by Clifton Davis.

Sherman Hemsley was socially active, a part time musician and friend to musical greats such as Dizzy Gillespie, and stars including Bill Cosby. Mr. Hemsley had neither wife nor children.