Melissa Gilbert pens a heartfelt message to remember her 'Little House on the Prairie' co-star and cherished friend, Jack Lilley, who recently died at the age of 91.
- Mar 22, 2025
AceShowbiz - Jack Lilley, an actor and stunt coordinator best known for his role and work on the beloved series "Little House on the Prairie", has died at the age of 91. The show's star Melissa Gilbert took to Instagram to honor her co-star and express her deep sadness at his passing.
"The little house family has lost one of our own," wrote Gilbert. "He taught me how to ride a horse when I was just a wee little thing. He was so patient with me. He never said no when I would bound up to him squealing, 'Can we go ride? Please, please, please?' "
Lilley, who portrayed a variety of roles including a stagecoach and wagon driver in numerous episodes of "Little House on the Prairie" between 1974 and 1983, was more than just a colleague to Gilbert. He served as a mentor and friend, helping her feel at home on set.
A mind filled with stories and a heart known for kindness, Lilley was remembered fondly by Gilbert for his patience and warm demeanor.
Gilbert recounted a "deja-vu" reunion in 2002 while working on a Western pilot called "Then Came Jones," where Lilley was once again by her side as a wrangler.
Gilbert's memories illuminated the deep bond they shared, "I walked to the set itself and before I could even focus I heard a familiar voice holler, 'Hey Halfpint, you old rat-a**!!!' In that instant, I knew I was home."
Lilley's impressive career wasn't limited to "Little House on the Prairie." He contributed his talents to several other iconic series and films, including "Gunsmoke," "City Slickers," "Blazing Saddles," "Bonanza," and the 1957 TV series "Zorro."
His family paid a touching tribute to him, saying, "We lost a giant among men. Jack Lilley, known for being a stuntman, boss wrangler, livestock coordinator, actor, and our papa, passed peacefully on 3/19/25."
They also highlighted his deep affection for animals he worked with and the pride he took in their safety and well-being.
Melissa Gilbert closed her tribute with a heartfelt Shakespeare quote, "Oh Jack…sweet prince….may flights of angels sing thee to thy rest. Love always, Your Halfpint."
Jack Lilley is survived by his three sons, five grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. Though his passing leaves an irreplaceable void, the memories and stories of his kindness, his talent, and his unmistakable charm live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
