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Franklin Cover Obituary
Cover died of pneumonia Sunday at the Lillian Booth Actor's Fund of America home in Englewood, N.J., said publicist Dale Olson. He had been living at the home since December 2005 while recuperating from a heart condition.
In his nearly six decades in show business, Cover made numerous appearances on television shows, including "The Jackie Gleason Show," "All in the Family," "Who's the Boss?" "Will & Grace," "Living Single," "Mad About You" and "ER."
He began his career on the stage, appearing in Shakespeare's "Hamlet" and "Henry IV," and later in numerous Broadway productions, including "Any Wednesday," "Wild Honey and "Born Yesterday."
But Cover was best known for his role as Tom Willis, who was in an interracial marriage with a black woman, in "The Jeffersons."
He and his wife lived in the same "deluxe apartment" building that Sherman Hemsley moved his family to after making money in the dry-cleaning business. There, Cover often played a comic foil to Hemsley's blustering, opinionated black businessman. The show ran from 1975 to 1985.
Cover also appeared in several films, including "The Great Gatsby," "The Stepford Wives" and "Wall Street."
He is survived by his widow, Mary, a son and a daughter.
Copyright © 2006 The Associated Press
232 Entries
March 10, 2020
My deepest sympathy to his family. enjoyed watching him on tv. My Almighty God continue to give you peace. Jer. 29:11
February 23, 2020
I was a fan of franklin cover. Every time I watched the Jefferson, he was a classy actor
Coach Rumley
May 2, 2018
You. Were funny on the Jefferson & now the Willis & the Jeffersons are all together again in heaven. RIP
Olga Bagley
May 2, 2018
You. Were funny on the Jefferson & now the Willis & the Jeffersons are all together again in heaven. RIP
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Olga Bagley
May 2, 2018
You. Were funny on the Jefferson & now the Willis & the Jeffersons are all together again in heaven. RIP
James Hay
April 4, 2018
Mr Franklin Cover Will Always Be Remembered By The Characters That He Played On Stage And Screen But Most Of all He Will Be Remember Most For His Kindness To Others As Well As For His Infectious Smile That Could Warm The Most Coldest Heart. Franklin Cover Will Always Be Warmly Remembered By All Of His Friends And Fans Who Admired Him In Life. Rest In Peace My Friend.
Jeannie
February 15, 2018
Thank you for great entertainment
MR. Franklin Cover was and is a great actor. We love you on The Jeffersons
Thank you and you are greatly missed. You continue to live on through reruns of all your wonderful work.
Thank you.
Doris Thomson
January 26, 2018
Doris Thomson January 26
I was stunned to read of Frank's death in November.I was trying to find his address and the whereabouts of his wife Mary when I googled Frank's name. Our friendship began at Denison University from which we graduated as Theatre majors in the class of 1951. Frank and I also spent many seasons with the Denison Summer Theatre.I have many scrapbooks and written accounts of his reviews. I will send what I have to Mary when I find her.I can be reached at 15 Lakeview Terrace, Staten Island,New York.
Rosemarie Lindsey
December 17, 2017
Franklin, you are very much missed. you were such a funny guy on The Jeffersons, you show is still running today, this is the year December,2017 and they are still showing The Jeffersons, we love your show and all the cast that played in it. Thank you for giving us such entertainment even still today.
Thank you!
(Rosemarie Lindsey)
Liz
December 10, 2017
Tom,
Most of you from "The Jeffersons" cast have made the ultimate "move on up:" George, Weezie, Helen, Mr. Bentley, Ralph, Mother Jefferson and original Lionel. We thank you for showing us how to love and to laugh!
Nazarene Mckinney
April 24, 2017
Thanks for the many laughs and enjoyment you gave us as Tom Willis on The Jeffersons. My sincere condolences to your loved ones.
Mrs.Tijuana Jones
January 25, 2017
Rest in peace Mr Cover; May you have eternal salvation with our lord Jesus Christ
Tijuana Jones
January 25, 2017
To the family of Mr.Cover: I would like to offer my deepest sympathy on the passing
Of your beloved actor and confidant. He sure
was extraordinary actor who I watched numerous times with his costars Roxie Roker.Sherman Hensley. Isabel Sanford.
He sure was a great talented person who
Left a great laughter and optimism to the
television industry.
With Sincere Condolences And Respect
Mrs Tijuana Grace Jones
Brenda Broady
January 8, 2017
You helped make a difference I still laugh years later,you are definitely a legend that will not be forgotten, RIP.
A Lee
December 5, 2016
Mr Franklin Cover was so funny on the Jeffersons. An ensemble cast with many laughs. Thought and prayers to his loved ones.
November 3, 2016
S.I.P
Eural :Blackman
August 5, 2016
Perfect. Person. For. The. Part, still. Watching, still. laughing.
Anthony
April 10, 2016
Thanks tom for everything
Cindy Lynch
March 7, 2016
Thank you for making me smile!! May you continue to rest in peace.
Harry Simpson
February 5, 2016
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Harriet Brown
January 25, 2016
Yes, we enjoyed and still enjoy the Jefferson's . Thank you for for your part in the sitcom. God Bless you.
Rhonda Hartfield
December 28, 2015
I will never forget how tom on the jeffersons made me laugh u will forever be missed Rip
Steve Ashley
September 4, 2015
A great actor and personality. We still enjoy your Jeffersons reruns. RIP Mr. Cover.
Latrice Pringle
September 4, 2015
Rest in Paradise Frankie you were funny as hell as Tom
joanne smith
August 27, 2015
Love u and Helen all the time.I watch u 2 on Jefferson's each day, twice a day. Rip.
Renee Covington
August 2, 2015
Greatly Missed! Love him on the Jefferson! Watching him right away now on TV1! God Bless!
buck g
March 21, 2015
Smh
barbara chatman
September 16, 2014
You are still greatly missed.
Michael Evanos
March 29, 2014
How grows that Russian Black Olive that I planted on his terrace in NYC back in the late 80's? I hope it is hearty and bearing fruits of remembrance.
miss purple
March 1, 2014
I'm watching "The Jeffersons" on DVD right now. Loved the banter between Tom Willis and George Jefferson. Their chemistry was amazing! R.I.P. Franklin Cover.
elaine haus
February 10, 2014
A joy to watch his performances,made me laugh and feel happy.that is a special man.May his family find peace.
February 6, 2014
RIP...
Karen
February 6, 2014
Loved his appearances? Always brought a good chuckle on the Jeffersons
P Bolden
February 6, 2014
You were truly "funny" on that show - the Jeffersons! I enjoyed watching you each season and your character was excellent! RIP
David farr
January 18, 2014
One of my favorite actors. Liked him on the jeffersons.
Melanie Goodman
December 28, 2013
I was a fan of the Jefferson's may God bless you and your family.
R. Peeples
November 9, 2013
I have been a fan of The Jeffersons since childhood when the show began. You were a part of such a dynamic cast. I enjoy The Jeffersons today for I often watch the reruns once I arrive home from work as my remedy for a long day. You are missed Franklin Cover, but, I am sure you will never be forgotten. Thank you for allowing God to use you to bring laughter, harmony, and understanding to the world.
DJ Worthy
August 18, 2013
I loved your performance in the Jefferson. You bought respect and understanding to the fact that inter-racial marriages can work even if others are against the union. You will be missed.
debra thomas
June 29, 2013
Remembering your great love story today and always.
Belinda Cardenas
May 6, 2013
I was 20 when I was hospitalized for a lump in my throat. It was surgically removed and that same day as I layed resting on the hospital bed I turned on the TV and The Jeffersons were on. The scene .. In walks Tom ( Franklin Cover) as George open the door to let him in to his apartment,Tom is wearing a Pimp Hat and wearing a pimp outfit and talking Jive. The out fit was orange. I busted out laughing so hard my stetches on my neck almost came apart. I couldnt stop laughing and I was holding my neck. I'll never forget that episode . Laughter was the best medicine I had that day.Im 51 now and till this day, I laugh when I think about that scene!! Bless your heart Mr. Franklin Covers. I thank God for you and all the years you brought laughter to many households. Enjoy your new life with God.
Steve Ackerman
January 28, 2013
I loved you in the Jefferson
Theresa Mccluney
December 4, 2012
I enjoyed you and I still watch the Jefferson's
DEE TUCKER
July 26, 2012
I USE TO LOVE WATCHING TOM AND EORGE GO AT IT . I'M 46 TODAY , AND STILL WATCH THE RERUNS AND LAUGH . GOOD CLEAN COMEDY LAST..... FRANKLIN WAS AWESOME.
DEE TUCKER ( ATLANTA , GA)
Duane Strassman
July 24, 2011
Franklin- I enjoyed being your bus driver while on tour with Juliette P. & you when you performed in "Auntie Mame". I saw the show every night. I also felt honored when I was able to drop you off at your home in Hollywood when we finished the tour. We remained friends, exchangng Christmas card each year since. You will be truly missed. You're in God's hands now.
Duane Strassman
Byron Lee
February 25, 2011
Fine work sir. I loved you on the 'Jeffersons'. Take care.
Sean DeMarco
January 31, 2011
I was watching the Jeffersons 1st season DVD tonight and decided to look up "Tom". I just want to say to his family and friends that I am sorry he is gone but so glad that through the invention of dvd media I have all my favorite actors and actresses and shows they were in for a lifetime. Thank goodness for the invention of the dvd. Thanks Franklin Cover for contributing to the group of people that make me laugh once in awhile and allow me to forget my illness and troubled life. Your ability to make people laugh continues even after your death. What a legacy an actor/actress can leave.
Melissa
July 31, 2010
I was browsing wikipedia for the Jeffersons cast...Oh, how I loved this show and saw that one of the greatest cast member is gone. You are greatly missed "TOM". I remember watching this show as a child and I would laugh so hard at you dancing and at you and George fights...Best show to date. We Miss and Love you.
April 3, 2010
For Franklin...who became a familiar face as George and Louise Jefferson's white neighbor in the long-running TV sitcom "The Jeffersons.
WEEP NOT FOR ME
Do not weep for me when I no longer dwell among the wonders of the earth; for my larger self is free, and my soul rejoices on the other side of pain...on the other side of darkness.
Do not weep for me, for I am a ray of sunshine that touches your skin, a tropical breeze upon your face, the hush of joy within your heart and the innocence of babes in mothers arms.
I am the hope in a darkened night. And, in your hour of need, I will be there to comfort you. I will share your tears, your joys, your fears, your disappointments and your triumphs.
Do not weep for me, for I am cradled
in the arms of God. I walk with the angels, and hear the music beyond the stars.
Do not weep for me, for I am within you;
I am peace, love, I am a soft wind that caresses the flowers. I am the calm that follows a raging storm. I am an autumns leaf that floats among the garden of God, and I am pure white snow that softly falls upon your hand.
Do not weep for me, for I shall never die, as long as you remember me...
with a smile and a sigh.
© Joe Fazio
~
[email protected] /Joe Fazio,
Beverly Hills, California
January 26, 2010
The years may come and go,but the memories of our love ones will live on forever in our hearts.
Psalms 147:3-He is healing the broken-hearted ones,and is binding up their painful spots.
Bonita Decker
July 2, 2009
I will miss him. I was just sitting here watching an episode of The Jeffersons and started to wonder about Mr. Cover. I didn't know he had passed away. He was a great actor and will be missed by me.
Bonita Decker
[email protected]
Darryl Ridgley
April 2, 2009
Mr. Cover you were a great actor. I do not think that anyone else could have ever played your role in the Jeffersons. You are an absolute natural and the cast that you worked with were and still are some of the best in the industry. When I watch the re-runs of the show it is amazing how timely the episodes still are today. You are greatly missed and were a great actor.
January 7, 2009
Great Actor, you will be missed very much. Carolyn Kingsley
RUDY RUBIO
August 12, 2008
THE JEFFERSON SERIES WERE WONDERFUL TO WATCH & IT'S BEAUTIFUL CAST. IT'S A SHAME MR. COVER IS NO LONGER WITH US, MAY HE REST IN PEACE & HIS MEMORY LAST ON THE RE-RUNS SHOWN ON T.V. I MET MR. HEMSLEY
BRIEFLY IN MY HOME-TOWN OF EL PASO, TX. & HE HAD FOND MEMORIES OF THE ALL THE CAST, ESPECIALLY MR. COVER, BLESS HIS FAMILY IN THIER TIME OF NEED FOR THIER LOST OF A WONDERFUL PERSON. GOD BLESS
Miracle
May 27, 2008
I just want to share a scpriture to comfort you'll at a time like this John11:25(Jesus said I am the resurrection and the life, he that exercises faith in me, even though he dies will come to life.)
babe
April 19, 2008
i liked franklin he was soooooooooooo funny a realy nice guy i will miss him
A. Harbison
March 24, 2008
God Bless!! Rest in Peace Mr. Cover
Tim F.
January 29, 2007
You were a great actor, I will always remember you! How could I forget,you gave me many laughs as Tom Willis,and I was only a little child back then!But so many memories you have given us all Frank. You be sadly missed,But will be ever remembered.God bless.
W Anson
January 29, 2007
Dear Frank's Family, It has been 48 or 49 years since my sister and I accompanied a USO theatre bus around Europe with a group of students from Dennison University. Frank was the "Professionial Actor" in the bunch, and I remember him as a delightful person, although I did not know him very well. It was wonderful to see him act the same role nearly every night, and he was very funny, even in his twenties. He was also great with the young people on the trip, as I recall. I was saddened tonight to hear of his passing on the SAG Awards; I recall him as so full of life. May you be comforted by his many achievements.
Kim Whitehead
January 29, 2007
I just learned of Mr. Cover's passing tonight while watching the SAG Awards. I am so sad to learn of his passing. May the family know that he has touched millions!
Maxine Henry
January 28, 2007
With deepest sympathy..Franklin Cover.. thank you for the wonderful childhood memories that brought a smile on my face and laughter to my heart. You will always be remembered.
Quan Williams
December 23, 2006
To the family of Mr.Cover my deepest sympathy goes out to you all. his character was loved by many especially myself so TOM wherever You are up in that Sky Iknow you are living deluxe May GOD Bless You.
Dorthea LeSure
December 6, 2006
Am so sorry for the loss of Mr. Cover he was so talented and funny he has really move on up to the great deluxe apartment in the sky so say hi to Roxie Roker Isabel Sanford and Zara Cully you will be greatly miss
Richie Stoddard
November 13, 2006
May you rest in peace. Mr. Cover was a legend for what his character did socially. No one could have done it better!! God bless you
LIL BARKERS
September 14, 2006
R.I.P FRANKLIN COVER [TOM WILLIS]
vernice brown
September 14, 2006
I love the jefferson a lot. I love part where george try to teach Tom how to act black.
Jack & Linda Waenick
August 26, 2006
We did not know of the passing of Mr. Cover. I am a true "The Jeffersons" fan and he made theat show what it was. God be with you and when I watch The Jeffersons tonight, it will be a lot different than last night. Jack and Linda
adriana pachas
March 27, 2006
i grew up watching Franklin Cover and up to this date me and my kids and mom continue to watch him on television. He definatley will be missed
Tammy Plant
February 25, 2006
Hi, I wanted to give my deepest sympathy to the family of Franklin. I grew up watching the Jefferson's Tom Willis was a great role in the series. He always made me laugh. Tom had a huge impact on the show and helped shape it into the comedy it was.
God Bless
Melissa Sharpley
February 25, 2006
Another lovely light has gone out! He will be remembered fondly for what he gave to me through his first-rate acting ability. My deepest sympathy is extended to his family.
Robert OCallaghan
February 25, 2006
My sincere condolences to his family. He will be missed.
B Thompson
February 25, 2006
This wonderful actor had the backbone and courage to tackle the bi-racial marriage issue. He opened the door for the present day actors and actresses. May God Bless you and the family you leave behind. May they be comforted in the knowledge you had the admiration of so many veiwers as you made The Jeffersons a household word. Go rest high on the mountain you have run the good race and earned your rest.
Kenny & Vickey Autry
February 25, 2006
To Mr. Cover's family, he was a great actor who gave many pleasure in his acting. He along with Weezie, George, and Helen taught many that you should love a person for who they are, not what they are. The world would be a much better place if we would all follow their example. May God Bless and Keep you all in His Loving Care in your time of grief. "Tom" has truly "moved on up to the Deluxe Apt in the Sky" Thanks for the memories, and thanks to his family for sharing him with us.
Sherry Martin
February 24, 2006
I really enjoyed watching the Jeffersons. I believe that Franklin Cover made that show. It surprized me that there was no spin off to his character. My heart goes out to his family.
jannie benitez
February 24, 2006
he will truly be missed i watch the jeffersons when i was a little until i turned 15 he was the on the show my deepest symthony goes out to his family he was the best actor ever and he will be truly be missed from the benitez family
stacy willingham
February 24, 2006
FRANKLIN COVER PLAYED AN IMPORTANT PART AS THE 1ST INTERRACIAL COUPLE ON A COMEDY SHOW. HE AND HELEN (SHE WAS ALWAYS DRESSING SHARP!) HAD CLASS AND THEY ALWALYS TREATED EACH OTHER WITH RESPECT--CLOWNING GEORGE JEFFERSON ALL THE WHILE!
THEY SHOWED US HOW IT CAN BE DONE LIVING IN 2 WORLDS AND THEY PORTRAYED IT WITH CLASS!! TOM AND HELEN WILLIS THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES!!
GOD BLESS!!
kevin hall
February 24, 2006
Mr. Cover really put the "S" in star...
His comedic timing was mastered with perfection. Watching him on The Jeffersons was like going to an acting class for free. He will be missed...
Say hello to "WEEZY" for me and have fun in that deluxe apt. in the sky!!!
N Johnson
February 24, 2006
Sorry for your loss...
He will be greatly missed.
Louella Allen
February 24, 2006
I really enjoyed "Tom Willis" on the Jefferson. He helped to make the show so funny. He always made "George" really think about things he was saying though directly at "Tom". There was always a lesson learned about black and white. It doesn't really matter.
George Lyons
February 24, 2006
Mr.Cover, my sympathy to your wife and children on your passing; you made your mark and made many people smile. R.I.P.
Marshall Lawrence
February 20, 2006
you will be missed,really enjoyed your acting career
Ruby Grant
February 20, 2006
To this day I still watch the Jeffersons. I really enjoyed "Tom Willis". May GOD watch and keep the family as another great one goes home.
lillian raymond
February 19, 2006
well i am deeply saddened by this and i hope that u have faith to continue . i loved all the charecters . they meant a lot to me and deeply touched me. i send my condolences . they dont make charecters the way they did back then but he will live on in millions of hearts around the world.
BETSY GUERRA
February 19, 2006
MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO THE CLOVER FAMILY. HE WILL BE DEEPLY MISSED
Marina DeRoy
February 19, 2006
You will be missed god bless...
ethel adkins
February 19, 2006
you've touched alot of people's hearts.
you made me laugh when i would watch the jeffersons.
you will be sadly missed.
may you rest in piece.
we love you.
Heather Harder
February 19, 2006
You have touched us in many ways--you were everyone's next door neighbor. May you friends and family find comfort in knowing there will be many of us you will mourn your passing.
Latoya Hogg
February 19, 2006
I grew up on the Jeffersons! and i cant believe that you are gone...my prayers are with the family may he rest in peace...
STEPHANIE KRUMM
February 19, 2006
OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH THE FAMILY. I REMEMBER HIM BEST ON THE JEFFERSONS AND HOW HE WAS VERY FUNNY. HE WILL BE SORELY MISSED.
THE KRUMM FAMILY,WALLS,MS.
Flora Graham
February 19, 2006
May God continue to be with the Family as you go through this difficult and sad time. And may Mr Cover rest eternally in peace. We pray that he is with our Father, in Heaven.
Peggy Dooling
February 18, 2006
Thanks for the laughs I had watching you on "The Jeffersons". You were a great comedian Mr. Franklin Cover known to me as Tom a neighbor to George & Weezie Jefferson of the Jeffersons.
God Bless You. Rest in Peace! My deepest sympathy go out to your family and friends. (one of your many fans)
The Chisom Family
February 18, 2006
My prays is with family during the passing of your love one. I did not know he personlly,only from watching him on TV.
KAREN GLOVER
February 18, 2006
MAY GOD BLESS THE COVER FAMILY AND COMFORT THEM IN THEIR PAIN. MR. COVER JUST WENT HOME. THAT IS WHERE WE ARE WAITING TO GO. GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME.
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