June Lockhart, the actress best known for playing television’s mother in “Lassie” and “Lost in Space,” has died at the age of 100. Lyle Gregory, family spokesperson and a friend of 40 years, confirmed her death in Santa Monica.
“She was very happy up until the very end, reading the New York Times and LA Times everyday,” Gregory said. “It was very important to her to stay focused on the news of the day.”
Television made her a household name. In the 1950s, she became America’s favorite mom as Ruth Martin on “Lassie,” the show about a loyal collie and the family that loved her. Later, in the 1960s, she took on the role of Maureen Robinson in “Lost in Space.”
Lockhart’s radiated kindness in a way that made her stand out. She gave her characters depth, and she earned two Emmy nominations. Viewers continued to adore her as well.
Still, she insisted she’s nothing like the women she portrays. “I must quote Dan Rather,” she said in an interview. “I can control my reputation, but not my image, because my image is how you see me.
“I love rock ‘n’ roll and going to the concerts. I have driven Army tanks and flown in hot air balloons,” Lockhart continued. “And I go plane-gliding — the ones with no motors. I do a lot of things that don’t go with my image.”
Off-screen, she was known for her humor and her generosity. Angela Cartwright, the actress who played her daughter in “Lost in Space,” made a tribute to her on Facebook.
“So smart, quick, and funny — she filled her 100 years with curiosity, laughter, and rock ’n’ roll,” Cartwright said. “I can only imagine she’s feeling right at home as she steps off this planet and into the stars.”
Additionally, Bill Mumy, who played her son in “Lost in Space,” shared a tribute of his own on his Instagram page.
“Goodbye to the brilliant June Lockhart,” he said in the caption. “ A one-of-a-kind, talented, nurturing, adventurous, and noncompromising Lady. She did it her way. June will always be one of my very favorite moms.”
Lockhart is survived by her daughters, Anne and June.
For many, June Lockhart will always be that kind presence on the screen, a reminder of a simpler time in television and how much comfort one person’s warmth can bring.
