Hal Williams facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Hal Williams
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Williams in 1986
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| Born |
Halroy Candis Williams
1934, 1938, or 1939 Columbus, Ohio, U.S.
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| Died | July 15, 2026 |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Years active | 1969–2025 |
| Known for |
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| Spouse(s) |
Gay Anderson
(m. 1975–1976)Renee W. Himes
(m. 1978–1984) |
| Children | 3 |
Halroy Candis Williams, known to many as Hal Williams, was an American actor. He was born in Columbus, Ohio, and became famous for his roles in popular TV shows. He is especially remembered for playing Officer "Smitty" Smith on Sanford and Son, Harley Foster on The Waltons, and Lester Jenkins on the sitcom 227. Hal Williams also appeared in several movies, including Private Benjamin and Guess Who.
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About Hal Williams
Halroy Candis Williams, known professionally as Hal Williams, was a talented American actor. He brought many memorable characters to life on television and in movies. He was especially known for his friendly and strong roles.
His Early Life
Halroy Candis Williams was born in Columbus, Ohio. His exact birth year is recorded as either 1934, 1938, or 1939. Before becoming an actor, he worked in different jobs. He was a postal worker and also a corrections officer. In 1968, he decided to move to Hollywood to follow his dream of acting.
Acting Career Highlights
Williams started acting in community theater in Ohio in the early 1960s. He began his full-time acting career in 1970. He quickly became a familiar face on television.
Famous TV Roles
One of his most recognized roles was Officer "Smitty" Smith on the popular show Sanford and Son. He played this role from 1972 to 1976. He also appeared in the follow-up series Sanford.
From 1973 to 1980, Williams played Harley Foster on the beloved series The Waltons. Later, he became a main character as Lester Jenkins on the NBC sitcom 227. This show aired from 1985 to 1990.
He also made guest appearances on many other classic TV shows. These included Good Times, The Jeffersons, Hill Street Blues, Magnum, P.I., Night Court, and Moesha.
Memorable Movie Appearances
Hal Williams also had a successful career in films. He appeared in the 1974 Disney movie Herbie Rides Again as a police officer.
In 1980, he co-starred as Drill Sergeant L.C. "Ted" Ross in the movie Private Benjamin. He later played this same role in the television series. He often played characters in law enforcement.
Williams portrayed Howard Jones, the father of Bernie Mac's character, in the 2005 film Guess Who. He also lent his voice to the character of Whip's Dad in the 2012 film Flight.
His Later Work
In recent years, Hal Williams continued his acting work. He appeared in the TV series Matlock in 2024. He also reprised his role in the series in 2025.
Remembering Hal Williams
Hal Williams passed away peacefully at his home in Rancho Mirage, California, on July 15, 2026. He was 91 or 92 years old. He is remembered by his three children, three grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. His long career left a lasting mark on television and film.
