Every Major ‘Everybody Loves Raymond’ Actor That Died

The hit sitcom ‘Everybody Loves Raymond’ remains a staple of television history thanks to its relatable family dynamics and an ensemble cast that boasted incredible chemistry. The show ran for nine seasons and relied heavily on the comedic talents of both its main stars and a rotating roster of legendary character actors. Many of these talented performers have sadly passed away since the series concluded its original run on CBS. Fans continue to mourn the loss of the actors who brought the Barone family and their eccentric extended circle to life.

Peter Boyle

Peter Boyle famously portrayed the curmudgeonly patriarch Frank Barone throughout the entire run of the series. The actor brought a unique comedic timing to the role of the retired bookkeeper who constantly bickered with his wife. He passed away in December 2006 at the age of 71 after suffering from multiple myeloma and heart disease. His extensive career prior to the sitcom included memorable roles in films such as ‘Young Frankenstein’ and ‘Taxi Driver’.

Doris Roberts

Doris Roberts earned four Emmy Awards for her portrayal of the manipulative and overbearing matriarch Marie Barone. Her character became one of the most iconic mothers in television history due to her constant interference in the lives of her sons. Roberts died in April 2016 at the age of 90 following a massive stroke in her sleep. Her acting career spanned six decades and included acclaimed performances on stage and screen beyond her sitcom success.

Sawyer Sweeten

Sawyer Sweeten literally grew up on the set of the show while playing Geoffrey Barone alongside his real-life twin brother Sullivan. He appeared in 139 episodes from his infancy until the series finale wrapped production. The young actor tragically took his own life in April 2015 while visiting family in Texas at the age of 19. His sister Madylin Sweeten also starred in the series as his older fictional sister Ally Barone.

Fred Willard

Fred Willard joined the cast in later seasons to play the conservative and mildly judgmental Hank MacDougall. His character served as a perfect foil to the chaotic Barone family dynamics particularly during wedding planning storylines. The comedic legend passed away in May 2020 at the age of 86 from natural causes. Willard was widely respected for his improvisational skills in mockumentary films before bringing his talents to the hit sitcom.

Georgia Engel

Georgia Engel delighted audiences as the soft-spoken Pat MacDougall who often surprised others with her hidden intensity. She received three consecutive Emmy nominations for her recurring guest role as the wife of Hank MacDougall. Engel died in April 2019 at the age of 70 due to undetermined causes because she was a Christian Scientist who did not see doctors. She previously gained fame on ‘The Mary Tyler Moore Show’ before reuniting with audiences on this series.

Katherine Helmond

Katherine Helmond portrayed Lois Whelan who was the wealthy and often distant mother of Debra Barone. Her character provided a stark contrast to the intrusive nature of Marie Barone and highlighted the class differences between the families. The accomplished actress passed away in February 2019 at the age of 89 due to complications from Alzheimer’s disease. She left behind a legacy of strong television roles including leading parts in ‘Soap’ and ‘Who’s the Boss?’.

Robert Culp

Robert Culp appeared repeatedly as Warren Whelan to play the eccentric and somewhat aloof father of Debra. His appearances usually involved humorous tension with Frank Barone as they had nothing in common besides their children. Culp died in March 2010 at the age of 79 after collapsing from a heart attack outside his Los Angeles home. He was previously best known for his action roles in the classic series ‘I Spy’ during the 1960s.

Charles Durning

Charles Durning played the role of Father Hubley who frequently found himself caught in the middle of the Barone family disputes. The character often tried to offer spiritual guidance to Marie Barone despite her constant questioning of his methods. Durning passed away in December 2012 at the age of 89 from natural causes at his home in Manhattan. The decorated World War II veteran had a prolific acting career that garnered him two Academy Award nominations.

Len Lesser

Len Lesser recurred as Garvin who was one of Frank Barone’s loyal lodge buddies throughout the series. He became known for his enthusiastic greeting whenever he saw the main character enter a room. The actor died in February 2011 at the age of 88 due to pneumonia related to cancer. Although he appeared in many films like ‘The Outlaw Josey Wales’ he remains best known for his sitcom roles.

Phil Leeds

Phil Leeds made a memorable impact as Uncle Mel who was the sarcastic and brooding relative of the Barone family. He appeared in several early episodes to deliver dry one-liners that often insulted Ray or Frank. The veteran character actor died in August 1998 at the age of 82 shortly after his final appearance on the series. His distinctive face and delivery allowed him to steal scenes in numerous television shows and films over his career.

Please let us know which of these talented actors you miss the most by leaving a message in the comments.