Florence Henderson passed away on Thursday at the age 82 from heart failure. News of her death quickly spread through the post-Thanksgiving airwaves. Henderson, of course, was best known as America’s TV mom, Carol Brady, on the The Brady Bunch. The show ran for five seasons in the late 1960s and early ’70s, but the pop culture juggernaut lived in infamy through TV Land reruns, plus assorted spinoffs and a 1995 big-screen spoof where Henderson played Grandma Brady.
As the matriarch of this beloved television institution, Henderson realized that the show was much more than entertainment to the at-home audience. In 1999, she told the Associated Press how The Brady Bunch “represents what people always wanted: a loving family. It’s such a gentle, innocent, sweet show, and I guess it proved there’s always an audience for that.” Henderson was certainly much more than a co-star to her fellow cast members, who helped bring the blended family’s antics to life.
Maureen McCormick, who played Marcia Brady, stayed in close touch with Henderson over the decades and tweeted her love and condolences, along with a tribute photo.
Florence Henderson was a dear friend for so very many years & in my <3 forever. Love & hugs to her family. I'll miss u dearly #RIPFlorence
— Maureen McCormick (@MoMcCormick7) November 25, 2016
You are in my heart forever Florence💕 pic.twitter.com/PABCuPubA2
— Maureen McCormick (@MoMcCormick7) November 25, 2016
Barry Williams, who played Greg Brady, also paid his respects while calling Florence not only his TV mom but also a lifelong friend. He was joined by several other friends, former co-stars, and admirers of the beloved icon.
Deeply saddened. Florence was one of the most gracious people I have ever known, Proud to call her Mom and life long friend. #RIPFlorence
— Barry Williams (@MrBarryWilliams) November 25, 2016
https://twitter.com/PamGrier/status/802159304400834565
Over the years, I spent so much time w/ Florence Henderson, you would think she was a member of my family. #RIPFlorenceHenderson Real talent
— Danny Bonaduce (@TheDoochMan) November 25, 2016
RIP Florence Henderson pic.twitter.com/DvLSAzXeyu
— Jake Tapper (@jaketapper) November 25, 2016
The lovely Florence Henderson has died. When I came to #DWTS, she said, "Welcome to the club." Such warmth. A treasure. #RIPFlorence :(
— Danica McKellar (@danicamckellar) November 25, 2016
1st Willie Wonka, now #CarolBrady. It's like my childhood is disappearing b4 my eyes! Rest in power, Florence Henderson. #2016Sucks
— C H A K A | K H A N (@ChakaKhan) November 25, 2016
Rest In Peace Florence Henderson, a dear lady with a great sense of humor & a terrific laugh. 'America's mom' has died.
— Larry King (@kingsthings) November 25, 2016
RIP the dear #Florence Henderson. You were a light.
— jason alexander (@IJasonAlexander) November 25, 2016
Just received the word that my friend Florence Henderson had passed. My heart and prayers are with the family. #RIPFlorence #LoveandKisses. pic.twitter.com/uFuWK6EzKe
— Donald Driver (@Donald_Driver80) November 25, 2016
1st Willie Wonka, now #CarolBrady. It's like my childhood is disappearing b4 my eyes! Rest in power, Florence Henderson. #2016Sucks
— C H A K A | K H A N (@ChakaKhan) November 25, 2016
UGH..florence henderson passed away today. From all of us who grew up watching the Brady Bunch.. thank you for the life lessons..xoxo
— Hoda Kotb (@hodakotb) November 25, 2016
https://twitter.com/JamesGunn/status/802077738576138240
I'm deeply saddened by the loss of Florence Henderson. So many of us grew up watching the Brady Bunch!
RIP Carol Brady you will be missed🙏🏼— La Toya Jackson (@latoyajackson) November 25, 2016
Sad to read about the passing of Florence Henderson, one of the lovliest, most loveable and beloved people in our business
— carl reiner (@carlreiner) November 25, 2016
(Via Variety & Chicago Tribune)