History of Lynn Hamilton (actress) in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: June 21, 2025

Lynn Hamilton is an American actress renowned for her television work. She is most recognizable for her recurring role as Donna Harris, Fred Sanford's girlfriend and later fiancée, on the popular sitcom *Sanford and Son* (1972-1977). Hamilton also portrayed cousin Georgia Anderson in *Roots: The Next Generations* and Verdie Foster in *The Waltons*, further cementing her presence in television history.

Sections (1)

Full Timeline

April 25, 1930: Lynn Hamilton's Birth

On April 25, 1930, Lynn Hamilton was born. She is an American actress known for her roles in Sanford and Son, Roots: The Next Generation, and The Waltons.

1959: Broadway Debut

In 1959, Lynn Hamilton debuted on Broadway in "Only in America".

November 1964: Marriage to Frank Jenkins

In November 1964, Lynn Hamilton married poet and playwright Frank Jenkins.

1969: Guest Starring in Gunsmoke

In 1969, Lynn Hamilton guest-starred as Mother Tabitha in the episode "The Sisters" of Gunsmoke (S15E14).

Loading Video...

February 4, 1973: Appearance on Barnaby Jones

On February 4, 1973, Lynn Hamilton appeared on Barnaby Jones as Laura Padget in the episode titled "Sunday: Doomsday".

Loading Video...

1980: Sanford Returns Without Hamilton

In 1980, when the show returned under the reworked title Sanford (TV series), Lynn Hamilton was not asked to return, and her character was written out of the series.

Loading Video...

August 2014: Death of Frank Jenkins

In August 2014, Lynn Hamilton's husband, poet and playwright Frank Jenkins, passed away after 49 years of marriage.

2016: Rumor Confirmed False

In 2016, Demond Wilson confirmed that the rumor that Lynn Hamilton and LaWanda Page were sisters was false.

June 19, 2025: Lynn Hamilton's Death

On June 19, 2025, Lynn Hamilton passed away. She was known for her roles as Donna Harris in Sanford and Son, Cousin Georgia Anderson in Roots: The Next Generation, and Verdie Foster in The Waltons.