Noble Willingham was an esteemed American actor known for his memorable roles in film and television. He passed away on January 17, 2004, leaving behind a rich legacy in the entertainment industry. Willingham captivated audiences with his versatile performances, particularly as C.D. Parker in the Walker, Texas Ranger series.
Willingham’s career, spanning over three decades, showcased his talent across various genres and earned him recognition as a beloved character actor. His contributions to cinema and television continue to resonate, ensuring his place in the hearts of fans and colleagues alike.
Noble Willingham biography
Noble Henry Willingham, Jr. was born on August 31, 1931, in Mineola, a small town located in Wood County, east of Dallas, situated in the U.S. state of Texas. Growing up in a rural setting, Willingham was surrounded by the simplicity and challenges of small-town life. This environment significantly shaped his character, instilling values of hard work, resilience, and community.
Willingham’s parents, Noble Henry Willingham, Sr. and Ruby Ladelle Speights, were fundamental figures in his upbringing. His father worked as a railroad worker and farmer. Willingham’s mother played a crucial role in nurturing his interests and aspirations.
His educational journey began in the local schools of Mineola, where he demonstrated a keen interest in academics. After completing high school, he enrolled at North Texas State College (now the University of North Texas) in Denton, Texas. At North Texas State College, Willingham majored in education, a field that resonated with his desire to make a positive impact on young minds. He graduated in 1953, earning a Bachelor’s degree. Following his undergraduate studies, Willingham pursued further education at Baylor University in Waco, Texas, where he earned a Master’s degree in educational psychology.
In addition to his academic pursuits, Willingham served in the United States Army during the Korean War. After his service, he returned to Texas, where he began teaching government and economics at Sam Houston High School in Houston.
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Noble Willingham career
Willingham began his professional life as a teacher after earning a Bachelor’s degree from North Texas State College and a Master’s degree in educational psychology from Baylor University. He taught government and economics at Sam Houston High School in Houston, Texas, before pursuing his long-held dream of acting.
His transition to acting was catalysed by his audition for the film The Last Picture Show (1971), which was a significant success and earned him critical acclaim.
Willingham appeared in over 30 films, including “Chinatown” (1974), “Aloha, Bobby and Rose” (1975), “Sheila Levine Is Dead and Living in New York” (1975), “Greased Lightning” (1977), “The Boys in Company C” (1978), “Norma Rae” (1979), “Brubaker” (1980), “The Howling” (1981), “La Bamba” (1987), “Good Morning, Vietnam” (1987), “City Slickers” (1991), “The Last Boy Scout” (1991), “Of Mice and Men” (1992), “Fire in the Sky” (1993), “The Hudsucker Proxy” (1994), “Ace Ventura: Pet Detective” (1994) and “City Slickers II: The Legend of Curly’s Gold” (1994).
On television, Willingham had a recurring role as “John Binford” in the ABC series, “Home Improvement”. He also appeared as a guest star in the CBS family drama series, “Three for the Road”, in 1975. He also guest-starred on “Dallas”, “The A-Team”, “Murder, She Wrote”, “Star Trek: The Next Generation” (1989), “Northern Exposure”, “The Rockford Files”, “Tucker’s Witch” and “Quantum Leap”.
His additional television credits include “A Woman With a Past”, “The Children Nobody Wanted”, “The Alamo: Thirteen Days to Glory” and “Unconquered”. He portrayed the conductor in “Kenny Rogers as The Gambler” (1980), Dr. Graham in “Living Proof: The Hank Williams Jr. Story” (1983) and appeared in the 1986 miniseries “Dream West”, as well as “Badge of the Assassin” (1985) and “Men Don’t Tell” (1993). He guest-starred as IRS Agent Bumpers in “Remington Steele.”
He was most famous for his role as “C.D. Parker” in the series “Walker, Texas Ranger” from 1993 to 1999.
Noble Willingham movies
Willingham had a diverse and extensive career, appearing in numerous notable roles in both television and film.
Notable film roles
- – Chinatown (1974): Willingham played a supporting role in this critically acclaimed film directed by Roman Polanski.
- – The Last Picture Show (1971): He had his breakout role in this Oscar-winning film, where he portrayed Chester.
- – Paper Moon (1973): Willingham appeared as Mr Robertson in this comedy-drama, which received critical acclaim and won an Academy Award.
- – City Slickers (1991): He played a memorable role in this popular comedy, which showcased his comic talent.
- – Good Morning, Vietnam (1987): Willingham had a supporting role in this film.
- – Ace Ventura: Pet Detective (1994): He appeared as a police officer in this iconic comedy.
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Notable television roles
- – Walker, Texas Ranger (1993-1999): Willingham is perhaps best known for his role as “C.D. Parker”, a close friend and confidant of Chuck Norris’s character. He appeared in 155 episodes.
- – Home Improvement (1991-1999): He had a recurring role as “John Binford”.
- – Star Trek: The Next Generation (1989): Willingham guest-starred in the episode “The Last Outpost”.
- – Murder, She Wrote (1984): He appeared in this classic mystery series, which featured numerous guest stars throughout its run.
- – Northern Exposure (1990): Willingham made a guest appearance in this quirky series.
Noble Willingham’s net worth
There are no reports on Willingham’s net worth.
Noble Willingham family
Willingham was married twice in his life. His first marriage was to Doris Jewel Humphreys on August 22, 1954. They had one child together before they divorced on November 15, 1984. Humphreys passed away in 1988.
In 2000, Willingham married Patti Ross. They remained married until his death on January 17, 2004. He is survived by two daughters, Stori Willingham and Meghan McGlohen, and a son, John Ross McGlohen.
Noble Willingham age
Willingham was born on August 31, 1931. He died in 2004 at the age of 72.
Noble Willingham Death
Noble Willingham passed away on January 17, 2004, at the age of 72. He died at his home in Palm Springs, California. According to the Riverside County coroner’s office in Indio, his death was attributed to natural causes.
Willingham’s body was transported to Riverside National Cemetery in Riverside, California, where he was laid to rest.
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