Sunday, February 16, 2014

'Good-night, John' ... a tribute to The Waltons' Ralph Waite 1928-2014



To the world he was known as John Walton, patriarch of a Nelson County, Virginia, family during the Great Depression and World War II. Ralph Waite passed away this week at the age of 85, leaving behind those who had acted with him throughout the years.

In this tribute, he is joined by the kids from "The Waltons," now grown and together for a 40th anniversary gathering. Earl Hamner, the original John Boy who grew up in Schyler and created the show, was also there along with directors, writers, producers, and guest actors throughout the years who helped make the show.

SWAC Husband enjoyed John Waite in his role as Mark Harmon's dad, Jackson Gibbs, on "NCIS," something I've heard from others.  For me, he will always be John Walton of Walton's Mountain, Virginia. The show, in reruns, made my time living in North Carolina a little easier because it made me feel just a little closer to home.

"The Waltons" can still be seen in reruns. As the Walton kids would say at the close of the show, "Good night, Ralph."


No comments: