Barbara Billingsley (June Cleaver) – Known as the quintessential TV mom, Barbara Billingsley played June Cleaver with grace, warmth, and just the right touch of elegance.

    Facts About Barbara Billingsley, June Cleaver on 'Leave It to Beaver'

    Off-screen, she was just as classy.

    She passed away in 2010 at age 94 after a battle with polymyalgia.

    Her death marked the end of an era for many who grew up watching her bake cookies in pearls and heels.

    Hugh Beaumont (Ward Cleaver) – The stern but loving father figure on Leave It to Beaver, Hugh Beaumont was a fan favorite.

    However, behind his composed demeanor, he struggled with personal issues and was deeply affected by the death of his own son.

    Hugh Beaumont - Wikipedia

    Beaumont passed away in 1982 at age 73 after suffering a heart attack while vacationing in Germany.

    Frank Bank (Lumpy Rutherford) – Lovable bully-turned-friend, Frank Bank portrayed Clarence “Lumpy” Rutherford, adding comic relief to many episodes.

    Frank Bank - Wikipedia

    After the show ended, he stepped away from acting and became a stockbroker.

    He passed away in 2013, just one day after his 71st birthday.

    Ken Osmond (Eddie Haskell) – Arguably the most iconic “bad boy” on 1950s television, Ken Osmond’s portrayal of Eddie Haskell was so convincing that it typecast him for life.

    Ken Osmond Dead: Leave It to Beaver Actor Dies at 76

    After leaving acting, he became a Los Angeles police officer and even survived being shot in the line of duty.

    Osmond died in 2020 at age 76 due to complications related to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

    Richard Deacon (Fred Rutherford) – As the pompous and self-important father of Lumpy, Richard Deacon played his role to perfection.

    Richard Deacon | Thaddaeus Ropac

    Off-screen, he was a skilled chef and authored several cookbooks.

    Sadly, he passed away in 1984 from cardiovascular disease at the age of 63.

    Burt Mustin (Gus the Fireman) – A late bloomer in Hollywood, Burt Mustin began acting in his late 60s and quickly became a recognizable face in family TV shows.

    Burt Mustin - Wikipedia

    His performance as Gus the friendly fireman was heartwarming and sincere.

    Mustin died in 1977 at the age of 92.

    Madge Blake (Mrs.Margaret Mondello) – Known as Larry’s sweet but quirky mom, Madge Blake added a unique spark to every episode she appeared in.

    Before Beaver, she appeared in Batman as Aunt Harriet.

    Madge Blake - IMDb

    She died in 1969 at age 69.

    Stanley Fafara (Whitey Whitney) – One of Beaver’s school friends, Stanley Fafara was a staple in the classroom scenes.

    Unfortunately, his post-Hollywood life was troubled, battling addiction and homelessness.

    Stanley Fafara, 54; 'Whitey' on 'Beaver' - Los Angeles Times

    He died in 2003 at age 54 due to complications from surgery.

    Stephen Talbot (Gilbert Bates) – While Talbot is still alive as of this writing, the confusion surrounding his status often causes rumors of his death.

    Stephen Talbot: What I Saw at the Demonstration - Senior Planet from AARP

    However, other actors who played similarly small but significant recurring roles haven’t been so lucky.

    Doris Packer (Mrs.Rayburn) – As the dignified principal of Beaver’s school, Doris Packer brought gravitas to the supporting cast.

    Doris Packer - Wikipedia

    She was also a frequent presence on The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis.

    She passed away in 1979 at age 74.

    Sue Randall (Miss Landers) – One of the most beloved teachers in TV history, Sue Randall was the embodiment of patience and kindness.

    TPLP/Getty Images

    Tragically, she died young—only 49 years old—in 1984, after a battle with lung cancer.

    Rusty Stevens (Larry Mondello) – While Stevens is alive, his departure from the show was sudden and mysterious, later attributed to problems behind the scenes.
    ABC Photo Archives/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images

    Rumors of his death have circulated for years, though they are unfounded.

    Richard Correll (Richard Rickover) – Another false rumor: Correll, who played one of Beaver’s later-season friends, is alive and well.

    But many fans mistakenly include him in lists of deceased Beaver stars due to his absence from the spotlight.

    Stanley Andrews (various roles) – Best remembered as “The Old Ranger” from Death Valley Days, Stanley had minor parts on Leave It to Beaver as townsfolk or background characters.

    He died in 1969 at age 77, largely forgotten by fans.

The passing of these Leave It to Beaver stars is more than just a collection of dates—it’s a reminder of how quickly time passes and how the magic of television can immortalize people even after they’re gone.

Though the actors have left this world, their characters continue to teach, comfort, and entertain new generations.

In a world increasingly dominated by cynical media, Leave It to Beaver offered simple lessons, heartfelt moments, and memorable characters that have stood the test of time.

And while many of its stars are no longer with us, their legacy remains woven into the fabric of American television forever.

Their contributions were more than performances—they were part of the cultural DNA of postwar America.

So the next time you hear that iconic theme song, take a moment to remember the faces behind the innocence.

Some may be gone, but thanks to reruns and memories, they will never truly leave us.