Actor Hal Williams, known for his role as Lester Jenkins on the sitcom 227, died Wednesday at age 91. His former co-star Regina King shared a public tribute to him on Instagram.
Williams played the father of King's character Brenda Jenkins during the show's five-season run on NBC, which began in 1985. King described him as a source of safety and support on set, noting that their bond extended beyond the series because her own father was often unavailable.
In her statement, King wrote that she was saddened by his passing but grateful for their shared years and recent time together at Christmas. She added, "Thank you for being such a beautiful part of my life. This is not goodbye. It's see you later. I love you. Live in peace, Dad."
Williams also appeared in Sanford and Son and the film Private Benjamin. Fellow 227 star Marla Gibbs called him a generous man who gave his time and talent to the community.
