Overview

• She died of natural causes on June 19 at her Chicago home surrounded by her grandchildren, loved ones and caregivers.
• Hamilton launched her career in Chicago community theater before debuting on Broadway in Only in America and making her film debut in John Cassavetes’ Shadows in 1959.
• She portrayed Donna Harris on Sanford and Son from 1972 to 1977 and Verdie Grant Foster on The Waltons between 1973 and 1981.
• Her credits also included the daytime drama Generations, the sitcom 227 and guest spots on series like The Golden Girls, while her film work featured Lady Sings the Blues and Legal Eagles.
• She was married to playwright Frank Jenkins from 1964 until his death in 2014, collaborating with him on several acclaimed stage productions.