Actor Ken Berry was a household name a few decades ago. He was known for his comedic roles in the shows Mama’s Family and F Troop just to name a few.

Sadly, on December 1, Berry died at the age of 85 at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center in Burbank, California. Berry played Vinton and Carl Harper in Mama’s Family from 1983 to 1990 and played Captain Wilton Parmenter in F Troop.

He also appeared on Mayberry R.F.D. from 1968-1971 when it became a spin off of The Andy Griffith Show. He replaced Andy Griffith. His first major role, however, was on F Troop.

Berry recalls that role fondly and often talked about it as being the happiest time in his life. “I just walked on air for a long time. I knew how lucky I was at the time,” said Berry. Berry also made regular appearances on The Carol Burnett Show, The Sonny and Cher Comedy Hour, Love American Style, No Time for Sergeants, and Fantasy Island.

He also had his own series in 1972 called The Ken Berry Wow Show. His latest screen role was playing the midwestern sheriff on Maggie Winters alongside Faith Ford.

Berry was married to Jackie Joseph in 1960, but divorced in 1976. They had two children, but his son, John, preceded him in death in 2016 due to brain cancer. His daughter Jennifer Kate and his longtime partner, Susie Walsh are still alive.

Berry stepped away from his acting career after the late 1990’s saying he just wanted to go where his day takes him. Be sure to share this heartbreaking story with your family and friends and check out the video below to reminisce one of his performances.