Remembering Wilford Brimley: A Legacy Of Trust, Talent, And Advocacy

Actor Wilford Brimley died Saturday morning after a long illness. He was 85. His passing marks the end of an era for many who cherished his work on and off the screen. Brimley's career spanned decades, showcasing his talents not just as an actor, but also as a singer and advocate for diabetes awareness. He leaves behind a legacy that many will remember fondly.

"Wilford Brimley was a man you could trust. He said what he meant and he meant what he said. I'm sad that I will no longer get to hear my friend's wonderful stories. He was one of a kind," said Lynda Bensky, the actor's representative, in a poignant statement to Newsweek.

Bensky shared that Brimley had been on dialysis and faced various medical challenges in the latter part of his life before passing away at the ICU of a hospital in St. George, Utah. His contributions to the entertainment industry and his advocacy for diabetes education will not be forgotten.

Biography of Wilford Brimley

Detail	Information
Name	Wilford Brimley
Date of Birth	September 27, 1934
Date of Death	August 1, 2020
Occupation	Actor, Singer, Advocate
Notable Works	Cocoon, The Waltons, The China Syndrome
Spouse	Beverly Brimley
Children	Three

Wilford Brimley began his Hollywood journey in the 1960s, initially working as an extra and stuntman in popular westerns like Bonanza and Gunsmoke. His big break came with a role in The Waltons, where he played Horace Brimley in seven episodes, starting in 1974. This paved the way for his first credited film role as Ted Spindler in The China Syndrome, a film that focused on a nuclear meltdown.

His most iconic performance was as Ben Luckett in Ron Howard's Cocoon, a light-hearted science fiction film that explored rejuvenation through the healing energy of aliens. Despite being part of an older cast, Brimley was only 49 years old when he took on the role, showcasing his ability to connect with the elderly characters he portrayed.

Throughout his career, Brimley was not just a talented actor; he also championed diabetes awareness after being diagnosed with diabetes mellitus in 1979. He collaborated with the American Diabetes Foundation and appeared in various advertisements to promote diabetes education. His efforts were recognized in 2008 when the ADA awarded him for his lifetime of service.

In addition to his advocacy work, Brimley founded Hands Across the Saddle (HATS) with his wife, Beverly, in 2009. This organization aimed to assist people in the Bighorn Basin, Wyoming, who found themselves in tough situations due to circumstances beyond their control. They provided over $500,000 in aid to those in need, highlighting Brimley's commitment to giving back to the community.

Wilford Brimley is survived by his wife Beverly and their three children. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched both as an entertainer and as an advocate.