Raymond Allen, ‘Sanford And Son’ And ‘Good Times’ Star, Dies At 91

Actor Raymond Allen, known for his roles in shows Sanford and Son as Uncle Woody and Good Times as Ned the Wino, died on Monday from respiratory issues at the age of 91.

His daughter, Ta Ronce Allen, confirmed the news in a Facebook post. “Just wanted to let The Allen Family and friends know that Dad received his wing two hours ago. His warmth, kind heart and clever sayings will be missed. His laughter will ring in heaven. Rest In Heavenly Peace Raymond Allen. The last of 12 siblings.”

She later said, “What a day this is been. I am so surrounded by love from friends and family. This has been one of the hardest days of my life I lost my father Raymond Allen and my cousin Deborah Doll (his niece). They are now both being held by the wings of angels.”

Allen was diagnosed with a bacterial infection in May and tested negative for coronavirus. He was found unresponsive on Monday morning at the health care facility in California he sought treatment at since a 2016 bout with pneumonia.

After playing Uncle Woody on Sanford and Son from 1972 to 1977, Allen reprised the role for the show’s spinoff series called, The Sanford Arms. During his acting career, he also worked on The Love Boat, The Jeffersons, Wattstax, What’s Happening and played Merle the Earl on Starsky and Hutch.  Allen retired from acting in 1985 due to medical issues.

The actor is survived by his daughters, Ta Ronce and Brenda Allen.