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Louis Gossett Jr
1936 - 2024
Louis Gossett Jr
1936 - 2024
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1936
DIED
2024
Louis Gossett Obituary
Louis Gossett Jr., the Oscar- and Emmy-winning star of such films and TV series as Roots, An Officer and a Gentleman, and Enemy Mine, died Friday, March 29, 2024, in Santa Monica, California, at the age of 87.
Read the full obituary in Legacy's headline news section.
You can share condolences for Louis Gossett Jr. in the guest book below.
Photo by Gabriel Olsen/FilmMagic
107 Entries
Renelda Moorehead
January 27, 2025
Lou Gossett, Jr. whom.I met on the location of THE LANDLORD,
was a friendly man. His eyes penetrated mine on the sunny day this very
pregnant stand-in had the privilege of engaging in convo with this
dedicated thespian...A true artist. He said I looked very familiar.
But no. I told Mr. Gossett. that he looked so much like my dear
grandfather. Both men so handsome, tall and talented. Friendliness , and gift of gab were owned by each man.
Thank you, Louis Gossett, Jr. for sharing with me , and the world.
Requiescat en Pace.
Renelda Moorehead
Karen Fon
August 27, 2024
Lou became a dear family friend. To be in his presence was to be in a ray of sunshine and peace. He was such a sweet, loving, calming, strong, amazing human being!! He will forever live and my heart and I miss him dearly.
john
July 30, 2024
thank you god bless
Harry Simpson
July 2, 2024
Godspeed Louis, a long life well lived, and wonderful, wonderful film and TV memories. Unforgettable. Thank you Louis, and again, unforgettable.
Rest Louis, until you hear at dawn, the low, clear reveille of God. Thank you for your service to this nation. U.S. Air Force.
How you can show support
Alma Swain
July 1, 2024
Lou Gossett, Jr. the most phenomenal actor during my era. I saw every movie he played in and An Officer and a Gentleman he was in real life. I visited the Sidewalk of Stars and his star was well deserved. My condolences to family and friends. Rest in eternal peace at home in glory great man.
Maurice Campbell
June 4, 2024
An Officer and a Gentleman
Marine!!!!!!
Luonne Rouse
May 23, 2024
Louis C. Gossett, Jr. stood at the pulpit of First Church Baldwin United Methodist, his presence commanding attention as he prepared to deliver a sermon that would resonate deeply with all in attendance. Drawing from his own experiences and upbringing, he spoke passionately about the importance of raising children in wisdom and truth.
With a solemn tone, he shared stories of his grandmother, a woman of great strength and integrity. Recalling a particular moment from his childhood, he spoke of her firm yet loving discipline. "She only lied once," he said, "and that's when she told me, 'this will hurt me more than you'." With tears welling in his eyes, he described how she never hesitated to correct him, even when it meant using tough love.
As he spoke, the congregation listened intently, hanging on his every word. Louis emphasized the significance of generational guidance, highlighting the timeless values passed down from one generation to the next. He urged parents and caregivers to instill these principles in their children, emphasizing the power of honesty, discipline, and love.
By the end of his sermon, there was a palpable sense of reflection and inspiration in the air. Louis C. Gossett, Jr. had not only shared a piece of his own story but had also planted seeds of wisdom and truth in the hearts of all who listened. As the congregation left the church that day, they carried with them a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to raising the next generation with love and integrity.
Robbie Huff
May 23, 2024
Thank you so much for blessing the world with your godly beautiful talents!❤
Jody brachman
May 22, 2024
I'm good u rip my condolences I loved his movies etc. He was a nice funny guy. No rush take care
Linda Upton
May 22, 2024
I had the wonderful privilege of working with Lou and Bruce Dern on a small movie, Carolina Skeletons, in Georgia, in the early 90s. I was the nurse on the movie and every morning we were delighted to gather around to see who had the best joke to tell for that day. Lou and Bruce always came through with some good ones. It was always a blast with both of them on set. I am so sorry for your loss. Lou was a great person and actor. He will be greatly missed.
Dale Steinek
May 18, 2024
I will always remember how you joked around with me on set. I knew that it was going to be a great day whenever we worked on the same days.
Sharon Jacobs
May 9, 2024
You will forever be one of my favorite actors. Loved you in An Officer and a Gentleman. May you rest in the everlasting loving arms of God. No more sickness or pain.
Ove Sundbyberg
May 4, 2024
Minns honom som en fantastisk skådespelare
Anna Carter
April 23, 2024
My memory of Mr. Louis Gossett is watching his movies, he a great actor. He will be missed.
Ryan Randall
April 18, 2024
Rest in peace, Mr. Louis Cameron Gossett Jr. I pray (Heavenly Father) for the Gossett family. I pray (Heavenly Father) that the Gossett family would be comforted. I pray (Heavenly Father) that the Gossett family would rest in being insured that their loved one Mr. Louis Cameron Gossett Jr. is in a better place. I pray (Heavenly Father) that the Gossett family will all be together again one day.
Lee Haney
April 17, 2024
It was an honor being in his presence. Always concerned with outing into the new generations. A heart as big as his contagious smile and personality.
God rest his beautiful soul.
Lee Haney
Anthony Smith
April 17, 2024
The special moment was when Mr G. walked into our Club house.Mr.G.made me laugh at some of the behind the scenes stories on set
Severina Britto
April 14, 2024
God bless you family. We thank Mr. Lou for all he has done to keep us entertained throughout the years. Rest in Peace.
LaDora Wilcox
April 14, 2024
To The Gossett Family
My Condolences.
Thank you for sharing your love one
With the World . His Legacy is unique and Precious
Job Well Done
Charlene Hendrix
April 13, 2024
Rest Lou.Charlene J Dallas,Tx
Bonnie Pernell Wheeler
April 13, 2024
RIP ,,Louis Gossett,PRAYING FOR YOUR FAMILY &FRIEND,
Joseph. S. Wiiams
April 11, 2024
Think you louis for the years you have brought your acting and paving the way for other black actors and actress.may you resting peace in God's presents.
Jeffrey Cummings
April 11, 2024
Mr Gossett was Truly an Amazing Actor. I watch all of his movies. He will truly be missed. My condolences goes out to his Family. Rest well
Nakagawa
April 11, 2024
LG: JR will be missed as Will Reeves /Hooded Justice for HBO's Watchmen!
sheryl williams
April 10, 2024
Rest in peace, you were great actor, and will be miss
Marsi Carpenter
April 10, 2024
Lou I remember U and I chatting over on Sycamore. You had a funny side and we would laugh at life. Always a Gentle Spirit and Gentle Man
Derrick Cashaw
April 10, 2024
Thank God for your inspiring talent may your soul rest
Zarona
April 9, 2024
I was saddened to here of the passing of such a distinguished and great actor that open doors for many today. I've seen him in countless movies and shows growing up.My condolences to his family and beautiful spirit rest in peace .You were a gift to the world.
Dorothy Owens
April 9, 2024
Rest in peace
Linda Stith
April 9, 2024
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories of Mr. Lou Gossett we will cherish forever!
Thomas N. Gawronski
April 9, 2024
A fellow New Yorker a great Actor. RIP there is a wonderful place for all great men.
Sidney Jones
April 8, 2024
Love you man, you will truly be missed
William Dixson
April 8, 2024
My name is William Dixon known as EZ new him very well rest in peace Lou
Annmarie Thomas
April 8, 2024
Although I didn't know you personally, it was a great shock when seeing that you transitioned from your fleshly body to your eternal place.
You truly were one of my favorite actors, and you truly will be missed. You were one of the best, now you can rest in peace.
Anita Darby
April 8, 2024
I love Mr. Gossett in all his movie, did not know him personally but he was like a father, brother, unlce, and let not forget grand paw from the movie, t.v screen I thank YHWH in Yeshua name for him.
Charles Stewart
April 7, 2024
He is the identical twin to our Grandfather Lacy Gossett. My Mom Sarah was the daughter to Lacy and Lessie Gosett. I will never forget those Sunday Evenings at our Grandparents Home on Jefferson Ave. in Bed.-Stuy, Brooklyn. There would be our Family watching the Ed Sullivan Show. It was my Cousin the Late Woodrow Gossett Jr. that who instilled the Disco Life within me and my Late Brother Walter in 1964. At the ages 13 to 14 we would go meet Woody at Bill Daley's in Ved Stuy. Brooklyn. Now our Cousin Lou is with Woodrow Jr alngside his sister Shirely Gossett and other Family Love Ones in the Heavenly Kingdom of Eternal Light Upon Light. Cousin Lou lived with Mom Sarah, Grandparents Lessie and Lacy Gossett, Aunt Helen, and Uncles Woodrow with Uncle Timothy are onw with God Amlighty. AMEN unto The Christ Child Lou Gossett Jr, for his Glorious Art for ALL HUMANITY.
Montgoussaint Jons
April 6, 2024
Damn! Lou, I wanted you to live forever because you exuded such immense pride and during your life. Thanks Lou, for giving us so much of yourself. Now spred your wings and fly to the kingdom where our royal ancestors are waiting.
Darryl Thompson
April 6, 2024
Rest in peace lou you will be missed
Linda J Davis
April 6, 2024
Thank you Mr. Gossett for sharing your God given gifts and talents with the world.
MB
April 6, 2024
A legendary actor! Enjoyed many of his performances throughout the years. Deepest condolences to loved ones.
Wendy Cook
April 6, 2024
Very good actor! Rest in peace.
Robin j Ansley Martin
April 5, 2024
By fate met him at his home off dune rd Malibu, ca
1984..thought some people were lied and needed an ride.. but I was said to come in and to my surprise we hit it off he was kind smart, funny..He to I became my mentor..THE REST someone
I will never forget! My son my sister as well and an few keep sakes..he loved keeping all hat's he had in each of his
Movies. Officer and gentlemen..stick as well..
I know he is with family Willie as well..I am sending prayers to his boys. I remember oldest son. Stay strong and God bless you..
D. Harvey
April 5, 2024
D. Harvey ( NYC )
My deepest condolences to the family of Mr. Louis Gossett Jr. He was a very talented actor I will miss him greatly.
87th celebration
Brandon Foster
April 5, 2024
March 29 is a day I will always remember, so I sincerely extend my deepest condolences and sympathies to the Gossett family and recollect on our mesmerizing encounter. I had the chance to meet Mister Louis Gossett at a live taping of "Family feud" back in May 2023. In between one of the four tapings, Steve Harvey was talking to me in front of the audience when he asked about my career path. Overhearing our insightful conversation, Mister Louis had his assisting relative give me his business card to his distinguished acting troupe and an informal invitation to his 87th birthday party. I had to work at the Atlanta Jazz Festival at Piedmont Park that same day, but I was determined to still attend his celebration beforehand even for a short while. His assistant gave me a small tour of his beautiful mansion in the countryside and introduced me to some of the other guests, family and friends alike. I called him a few times afterwards when he would answer and I was elated to see him interviewed at the Juneteenth celebration (PeachtreeTV) as well as his last film "Color Purple" in full vitality. I am immensely grateful for his talent in the entertainment industry while breaking down barriers for those who came/will come after him!
Denyse Cozart
April 5, 2024
Such a great actor, and a terrific person, rest in heaven
Tara Draper
April 5, 2024
You were a wonderful actor and inspiration to the black community. You were apart of my childhood. My favorite movie was roots and raisin in the sun. RIP Mr.Gossett.
Jacqueline Dobbins
April 5, 2024
I´m so saddened at the passing of Mr Louis Gossett Jr. He was a great actor. I think I´ve watched just about all of his films. You will be missed greatly. You legacy will always be remembered. Take your seat among the stars on high. May God bless your family as they go through the grief of losing a great man!! RIP Sir!
Ruby
April 5, 2024
RIP Thank you for sharing your wonderful talent on the movie screen
Lucinda Bell
April 5, 2024
Mr Gossett was an outstanding actor. He was truly gifted. He will be missed.
Rest In Peace Mr Gossett
Ina norris
April 5, 2024
Thank you for serving your community . You will be missed.
Sharon Rose Washington
April 5, 2024
Thank you Lou for your kindness and allowing me the pleasure of interviewing such an Icon and prolific Actor! Your dedication to your family and your career stand tall. Peace , Love and Eternal Light. Sharon Rose Washington
Fran Turner
April 5, 2024
Louis Gossett Jr., was an outstanding actor with a commanding presence. Whatever role he played, he totally embodied it and made it his own. No one else could have played Emil Foley. Rest in Peace, Mr. Gossett.
Rev.Robert Fuller
April 4, 2024
Deepest condolences to the family of Sir Louis Gossett, Jr. He truly was an Officer and a Gentleman.
Denita Whitfield
April 4, 2024
One of the greatest talents of our time. You will be sorely missed!!
RIP
Sena Moore
April 4, 2024
A gifted and legendary artist, surprisingly funny, great story teller, humble and loving man. You will truly be missed!
Sena Moore
April 4, 2024
There are no words to describe how much you will be missed. Meeting and getting to know you not just as a legendary performer but also as a humble, funny, great story teller and loving friend was truly a pleasure...
Andreas Caravousanos
April 4, 2024
A gifted talent that touched many fans by his honesty of performance and interpretation of performance. I am humbled that as a simple fan of your craft I enjoyed your numerous performances. May your memory be eternal.
Grady Morris Youngblood
April 4, 2024
Louis Gossett Jr. was the Oscar- and Emmy-winning star of such movies and TV series as "An Officer and a Gentleman" and "Roots."
Sharon P Alexander
April 4, 2024
Sharon P Alexander
April 4, 2024
Sharon P Alexander
April 4, 2024
Sending my condolences love and prayers of peace & comfort for the entire Gossett family & friends during this difficult time.
Although I did not personally know him, his death has really touch me deeply .
I am a fan of his who really is soooo crazy about Mr. Lou Gossett Jr until I thought that he would live forever!
But, now he will forever live on through his movies & television
He paved the way for a lot of new actors! My Aunt Jabie Abercrombie acted in a movie with him years ago. The movie was named "FIRE WALKER"! This loss is very hard ! ! May God bless his soul! I give him a grand salute cause he is "An Officer and A Gentleman May he rest in heavenly peace! Amen
Lucky St John
April 3, 2024
Mr . Gossett Jr. Thank you for your incredible body of work . The amazing Art of Storytelling . You are loved . God truly blessed you .
Gail Leak
April 3, 2024
RIP to one of the greatest actors of all time.
Diane Blanco
April 3, 2024
Very good actor and respectful gentleman will be miss
EDO
April 3, 2024
To the family and friends of Mr. Louis Gossett Jr.
My family and I would like to extend our heartfelt condolences for your loss. Mr. Gossett was not only an excellent actor, but his determination to be the best in whatever role he played during his career proves that he was not only a trailblazer but an example for those who follow in his footsteps. "Roots", "An Officer and a Gentlemen" and "The Color Purple" are. movie classics that will be part of cinema history for all eternity. There is no doubt that Mr. Gossett was loved by many and will be truly missed by all who knew him.
May you always keep treasured memories of him in your heart, may you fine comfort in knowing that God knows your pain, and may he give you the strength needed to continue on this journey of life.
Respectfully,
Ameka Bethea
April 3, 2024
sending condolences to the family RIP to an awesome Actor- you will be missed! I loved every movie you played in truly amazing.
Angela White
April 3, 2024
All I can say (THAT SMILE). I have love him on screen and he was great to watch. From one of your biggest fans. RIP MR. LOUIS GOSSETT JR. AN OFFICER AND GENTLEMEN. ANGELA WHITE
Linda Townsend-Booth
April 3, 2024
Thank you for sharing your God given talent and wisdom! You were an Awesome model! I love you! Love is present not past! Love is everlasting!
Rest well!
Donna D
April 2, 2024
Thank You for showing us dignity and respect during the good times & bad times in Black America
Sheldon L. McCormick
April 2, 2024
In the short-lived 1970-71 series, "The Young Rebels", Mr. Gossett portrayed Isak, an ex-slave in 1777 Pennsylvania. He was the only Black among a small group of young American colonists who used grit, determination, imagination and uniqueness and their battle against the evil British Redcoats during the Revolutionary War. Isak exhibited smarts, cleverness and guts considering his role. He never acted like an inferior and never ran away from the fight. Louis gave a fine performance in this series, which was the first time that this writer ever heard nor seen the actor before. Gossett also appeared on The Partridge Family and shined brightly as an actor. He was one of a kind.
Deepest condolences to his family, friends and fans, myself included. Rest in peace, sir. You now shine now and forever not only in movies, TV shows, whereever you appeared, but on God's Loving Stage.
Antionette Gates
April 2, 2024
My deepest condolences to the Gossett family. May God comfort you during this time.
Mr. Louis Gossett Jr., Thank you sir for your extraordinary talent, words of wisdom and great body of work left behind as your legacy. You were indeed a giant and King among men.
Take your rest . Well done.
Mr. Jr.
April 2, 2024
My condolences.
Nanette Hutchins
April 2, 2024
My condolences go out to Mr. Gossett family may your hearts peacefully heal in GOD's timing.
Louis Gossett, Jr. was one of my favorite actors growing up. I will forever cherish his memory.
Nanette
Carmen Towns-Rojas
April 2, 2024
RIPOWER
Peace & Blessing’s For The Late Great
Louis Cameron Gossett Jr
Thomas Arroyo
April 1, 2024
He was a true giant among men I met Lou Gossett Jr while I worked at Universal studios for close to 30 years, we ran across each other numerous times while at work and he also found time to come over and greet me and ask how I was doing, even at the peoples choice awards where I was doing security work he arrived at the event in a limousine and as he got out the limo he saw me, smiled and came over to me and greeted me with a big hand shake and some kind words, ( great to see ya) and then he slapped my shoulder with another friendly gesture, he always found time for people, I was truly blessed to have known such a wonderful man and such a great and kind person for all the years that I knew him, I will truly miss you my friend and my God now watch over you, I will always cherish the memories of our friendship and acquaintance while at universal studios, R I P my friend R I P
Will Miller
April 1, 2024
I'm speechless...as a child of the 80's and someone who loves the movies, he was always there as one of my favorite actors...Enemy Mine...Officer and a Gentleman...Roots! I mean...wow...I still can't process that he's gone. Louis, rest in peace, and know that you're work will live on. God bless!
RA
April 1, 2024
Truly a legend, an icon and a great humanitarian. Prayers for the Gossett family, God be with you all.
RR
April 1, 2024
One of a kind, an incredible actor who honed his craft to a stellar degree. He left big shoes to fill. He will be missed. Heartfelt condolences to the Gossett family and friends, truly sorry for your loss. May God give comfort and strength to you at this very difficult time.
Dave Rand
April 1, 2024
I'm Lou's photographer and friend, his wisdom guided me through some real rough patches and he saved my life. Here's my best shot of Lou with his grandson.
Jemell Moore
April 1, 2024
I had the pleasure of meeting you once and I was thrilled to make your acquaintance. Thank you for sharing your passions with us all. You will forever be remembered. What a kind man you were. You gave me your hat that you were wearing and told me all about your foundation ERACISM. Thank you for sharing this moment with me. I am truly saddened by your departure. I know that the heavens are rejoicing to see you arrive. Rest in paradise until we meet again. My condolences to your loved ones. Much love to you from Jemell Moore.
Barbara Eve Harris
April 1, 2024
What a special human being Lou was. His talent, grace, dignity, and tremendous passion for doing good in the world will be his legacy. We were blessed to have him among us; and I will be forever grateful for his friendship. May he rest in peace, well earned.
Brandon havens
March 31, 2024
I can´t even start on how great of an actor he was!! He will be greatly missed & may his memory live on
Corrine Massey
March 31, 2024
First of all I want to send my Condolences to Mr.Louis Gossett Jr´s Family, May the Lord give you peace and comfort during your Bereavement, my Prayers are with you
The most memories I have is truly watching Mr.Gossett Jr. In his movies (Iron Eagles and of course An Officer and a GRNTLEMEN
I TRULY LOVED ME SOME LOUIS GOSSETT JR.
#RESTINPEACE (LG Jr.)
Ardelia Mays
March 31, 2024
Rest in Peace, Mr. Gosset
Ardelia Mays, RN
March 31, 2024
I was one of Mr. Gosset Home Health Nurse's in GA. It was an honor caring for him and meeting him. Rest In Peace King . Ardelia Mays RN
Lisa Weiner
March 31, 2024
To Louis Gossett jr.
You were a very talented actor. I enjoyed watching you in the movie an officer and a gentleman. My prayers go to your family and friends. Lisa Weiner.
Michael Arnone
March 31, 2024
What a phenomenal actor. Of course An Officer and a Gentleman is a favorite. May he rest in peace. Gone but never forgotten.
Clarence Jones
March 31, 2024
Stay positive
Lisa Tarver
March 31, 2024
Louis Gossett has been the kindest ,most significant and great role model for my family and so many and for so many generations.
Dorothy Bugbee
March 31, 2024
You are greatly appreciated and greatly missed ❤
Valenda Newell
March 31, 2024
MR. GOSSETT his name brings respect dignity and pride in the entertainment community A legendary actor with range that had no boundaries Let us not forget he´s an OSCAR AWARD winner 1983 Thanks for making unforgettable movies & appearances on tv shows etc (RIP)
REGINALD H. BOWMAN
March 31, 2024
Sincere Condolences to the Gossett Family...Rest in Peace...Louis Gossett Jr.
Daron Myers
March 31, 2024
I had a picture of Louis gossett at magic Johnson uncf game in the summer of 1991 I love this picture of us rest in power my friend
Tijuana Jones
March 31, 2024
To the Gossett family; I wanto to offer
my sincere condolences to a fine actor. He will be greatly missed. I especially liked his performance in roots as fiddler and Sgt. Foley in and
Officer and a gentleman. May God rest his soul with the angels for eternity. He was great disciplinarian mentor for me.
Elizabeth Bell
March 30, 2024
R.I.P. Louis
Kenneth Rene Gonzales
March 30, 2024
I always admired him for his professionalism and ability in his work as an actor, he was one of my family´s favorite and he will always be remembered by us, may he rest in peace...
Davis'
March 30, 2024
We are truly saddened to hear about the death of Mr. Louis Gossett, Jr., and send our heartfelt condolences to you during this sad time. We have certainly lost a versatile and multi-talented person who was an Oscar and Emmy-winning star. We are thankful he shared his remarkable gifts and talents with so many, and he will certainly be missed by all who loved him.
Please continue to treasure your good memories and may they soothe your saddened hearts. May prayers strengthen you and cherished memories comfort you, and may God soothe your hearts and comfort you always. (23rd Psalm)
AJ NA
March 30, 2024
A VERY SAD DAY FOR THE WORLD TO HEAR THAT LOU HAS LEFT US--HE WAS AN AMAZING HUMAN BEING WHO WILL BE FOREVER REMEMBERED--HE WAS AN ACTING LEGEND AND A TRUE GENTLEMAN--RIP AJ
H. Haden Yelin
March 30, 2024
Lou starred in three Sunday night movies I wrote and produced for CBS: A Father for Charlie, To Dance with Olivia, and For Love of Olivia. All of those depict an outsider fighting for what's right; little did I realize how much he was playing himself! He was an amazing actor, a tremendous advocate, and a warrior for human rights. It was my immense privilege to have the honor of working with him, and to watch him take a character off the page and bring it to warm, vibrant life. He was such a powerhouse. We have all lost a shining light. Rest in Power and Peace, Mr. Gossett.
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