You were like a friend--no, more like a big brother--thanks to your portrayal of Lamont on Sanford and Son. Even in later years (well beyond the 1970s), your influence prevailed, enough that I even emulated Lamont's style of attire and made his work ethic my daily guide.
I also stayed on top of your career after Sanford and Son, following you into The New Odd Couple, Baby ... I'm Back!, Full Moon High, The Love Boat, Today's FBI, Girlfriends, Praise the Lord and Me and the Kid. (I also appreciated your earlier appearances on All in the Family, for the classic, "Edith Writes a Song," Mission: Impossible and the Sidney Poitier headliner, The Organization.)
I respected and admired your service in Vietnam and paid strict attention to your insightful words and recollections about the world in general, which isn't so surprising since you did become an ordained minister. You knew the word and had the right elocution for it.
I'm sorry you're gone, Mr. Wilson, and because of your passing, I feel that a part of me has vanished, but then again, I can always revisit you and will do so often. Sanford and Son is a consistent part of my life ... and therefore, you'll only ever be a mere step away.
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