Jack Lilley, a familiar face to fans of Little House on the Prairie, has died at the age of 91, his granddaughter confirmed on March 20 via Instagram. Known for his work both in front of the camera and behind the scenes, Lilley left a strong impression on viewers and co-stars alike.
“The man who started it all. Figuratively and literally,” wrote Savannah Dawn Lilley, remembering her grandfather as a “card shark, horse trader, wrangler, and storyteller.”
She added that Jack Lilley passed away to be reunited with his late wife, Irene, stating, “He just couldn’t bear another second without her.”
Key Highlights:
Legacy on ‘Little House on the Prairie’
Jack Lilley played multiple roles on the classic TV show Little House on the Prairie during the 1970s and 1980s. In addition to his on-screen performances, he also served as a wrangler and stunt double, notably as a photo double for actor Victor French.
Melissa Gilbert, who played Laura Ingalls on the show, shared a heartfelt tribute to Lilley, calling him “one of my favorite people on the planet.”
“He taught me how to ride a horse when I was just a wee little thing,” Gilbert wrote. “He was so patient with me.”
Gilbert also praised his acting talent, noting his appearances in Blazing Saddles and recalling a special reunion during the filming of a pilot in 2002 where Lilley unexpectedly appeared as the set’s wrangler.
A Horseman and Actor with a Lasting Impact
Lilley was widely respected for his skill as a horseman, his generosity, and his warm sense of humor. According to Gilbert, his presence always felt like “home.”
“Jack always felt like home to me,” she shared. “He lived quite a life. I am so lucky that he was my friend.”
Over the course of his career, Jack Lilley appeared in numerous Westerns, including guest roles on Little House, and supported productions as a wrangler, ensuring the safety of both actors and animals during filming.
Tributes and Farewell
Fans and former co-stars have continued to share their memories of Jack Lilley, honoring not just his work on screen, but the kindness and wisdom he brought to every set.
Though he may not have always been the face in front of the camera, Jack Lilley’s influence was deeply felt, both in the television shows he helped create and the lives he touched behind the scenes.
Jack Lilley’s death marks the passing of not just an actor but a storyteller, horseman, and cherished friend. His work on Little House on the Prairie and beyond has become part of television history, and his legacy will continue to live on through the memories of those who knew him and the viewers who watched him.
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