In Memoriam: Doris Roberts' Sad Cause of Death

Doris May Roberts was born on November 4, 1925, in St. Louis, Missouri. If you had told her then that she would one day be the reigning queen of sitcom grandmothers, she might have asked if you were trying to sell her a time machine. After moving to Los Angeles, she studied drama and took on various roles, including a stint on Broadway and in films. She even appeared in 'It’s a Wonderful Life'—proof that even a future TV matriarch can get mixed up with a bunch of angels and a rather morose George Bailey.

Doris shot to fame in the 1990s with her portrayal of “Marie Barone,” a character whose nagging charm resonated with audiences everywhere. With her perfect blend of warmth and wit, Doris made “Marie” a household name, inspiring countless memes, "I love my mother" mugs, and those awkward family dinners where everyone pretends to get along.

"Marie" could turn a simple roast into a full-blown culinary war, all while offering unsolicited advice on everything from parenting to how to effectively hide your bad hair days. Her performance earned her four Emmy Awards, proving that indeed, everybody loved Doris—and probably her famous spaghetti and meatballs recipe too!

After 'Raymond' wrapped, Doris continued to grace the screen, appearing in a variety of projects that showcased her versatility. From voice acting in animated films to guest-starring on shows like 'Malcolm in the Middle' and 'The Middle' (because when you’re a sitcom legend, the middle seems to be just where you belong), she remained a beloved figure. Not to mention her numerous philanthropic efforts, including advocacy for elder care—because if you’re going to be a national treasure, you might as well contribute to the well-being of your fellow senior citizens.

Now, let’s discuss the rather humorous circumstances surrounding Doris Roberts’ passing. On April 17, 2016, it was reported that she had passed away in her sleep at the ripe age of 90. Naturally, this left fans with mixed feelings: “How could the world be so cruel as to take Marie Barone away from us?” They mourned her with the same passion “Marie” had for ensuring her family knew just how to eat a proper meal.

In her personal life, Doris was married twice. Her first marriage to an actor named Michael Cannata ended in divorce, but it was her second marriage to William G. Roberts that proved to be more stable and fulfilling. They tied the knot in 1963 and remained together until his passing in 2001. Despite her success, Doris faced her share of challenges, including the struggles of balancing her career with family life. She had one son, Michael, who she adored and often spoke about with pride. Doris loved to host gatherings and was known for her culinary skills, whipping up dishes that would make any “Marie Barone” proud.

oris was also deeply passionate about philanthropy, particularly concerning issues related to elder care and education. She frequently participated in charity events and was a strong advocate for improving the lives of seniors, reflecting her belief that aging should be celebrated rather than stigmatized. Beyond her public persona, Doris was a vibrant and nurturing friend, known for her quick wit and genuine kindness. Her ability to connect with others left a lasting impact, making her not just a cherished actress but a beloved figure in the hearts of many.

In truth, Doris Roberts may have left us, but her legacy lives on. She taught us that a little bit of sarcasm can go a long way, that family is everything (even if they annoy you), and that a well-timed “Just wait until you have kids” is the ultimate trump card. Her characters will forever reside in our hearts, reminding us to embrace our quirks, love fiercely, and, most importantly, always have a lasagna in the oven.

So here’s to Doris Roberts—the queen of comedic timing, the matriarch we all wish we had, and the woman who could probably outshine even the brightest lightbulb with her charisma.

If there’s a heavenly sitcom, you can bet she’s there, sharing a plate of spaghetti with George Bailey, arguing about who’s going to do the dishes. And we, down here, will continue to laugh and cherish her memory, hoping that somewhere, somehow, her shadow is finally getting the recognition it so desperately sought.