I just learned this morning that Betty White passed away yesterday. I am so sad to hear this.

I met her once & emailed her twice–and she responded.

I met her at an Actors and Others for Animals fundraiser when I lived and worked in Hollywood. We shared a passionate affection for animals, optimism and laughter. I have all of her books.  She exuded warmth and kindness.

I can’t find the photo that was taken of her and me at the benefit, so I must have failed to digitize it, or it was taken on someone else’s camera, but I intend to keep looking for it. I have photos with Ed Asner, Mike Farrell, Cindy Williams, Earl Holliman and Linda Lavin, but the Betty White one escapes me right now. GRRR!

After meeting her, and while I was still temping in the entertainment field, I sent her an email with my resume and a cover letter reminding her of our brief meeting and conversation at the fundraiser, and asked if she knew of any open positions on THE GOLDEN GIRLS. She said she wasn’t aware of any but that she would keep me in mind and let me know if one came open that I was capable of filling.  I thanked her profusely.

Nothing ever came of it — my inquiry was the longest of long shots, since the show had been going on for years already and was fully and competently staffed —  but the memory of her kindness lingers.

I have not lived a day of my life (until today) without Betty White in it. Her career spans more than 70 years. I am 70. I remember her on lots of game shows and in supporting roles that pre-date THE GOLDEN GIRLS and THE MARY TYLER MOORE SHOW by decades.

Lisa and I hold tickets to her upcoming 100th birthday celebration on January 17th at a theater. I hope it turns into a memorial celebration for her instead. If it does, we will be there, this time with hankies, I’m sure.

I feel bereft today — the first day of my life without Betty White in it.  But if there is any justice in the hereafter, she is now back in the arms of her beloved husband, Allen Ludden, who preceded her in death in 1981.  She never went a day without missing him. Now she doesn’t have to anymore.

But God, how I will miss her — even though she is eternal in all of the portrayals she left us.

The animal world lost a true champion today, too…

The show business quote, “Always leave them wanting more…” is cruelly appropriate today. 

Few people could ever get enough of Betty White.

She is utterly irreplaceable.