Hee Haw Favorite Lulu Roman Dies on April 23 at 78

Lulu Roman, the cherished comedian, singer, and actress best known for her long-running role on the country variety show Hee Haw, passed away on April 23, 2025, at the age of 78. Her passing marks the loss of a woman whose laughter, warmth, and faith touched countless lives over more than five decades in entertainment.

Born Bertha Louise Hable in Dallas, Texas, Roman’s life was marked from the beginning by both hardship and resilience. She spent her early years in an orphanage, facing struggles with health and self-image. Yet, from those challenges, she developed a remarkable ability to bring humor and joy to others. This resilience later became a defining trait in her career and ministry.

Roman rose to fame in 1969 as one of the original cast members of Hee Haw, the country-themed comedy and musical variety program that became a staple of American television. Known for her larger-than-life personality, quick wit, and comedic timing, she became a fan favorite almost immediately. Her skits—filled with self-deprecating humor and sharp punchlines—resonated with audiences, making her one of the show’s most recognizable faces for more than two decades.

Beyond her comedy, Roman’s talent extended into music. After leaving behind struggles with addiction in the 1970s, she found faith and redirected her life toward Christian ministry and gospel music. She went on to become an award-winning gospel singer, releasing several albums that showcased her powerful voice and heartfelt devotion. Her work earned her respect not only in country and gospel circles but also among fans who admired her openness about redemption and recovery.

Roman also found a home in children’s entertainment, voicing Lulu Ladybug in the animated series Gaither’s Pond. This role allowed her to reach younger generations, bringing joy and inspiration to children and families alike. It reflected her enduring versatility—moving effortlessly from comedy to gospel to voice acting—while always maintaining her signature warmth.

Her life was not without struggle. Roman often spoke openly about her personal challenges, including weight issues and health setbacks, as well as her journey through faith and recovery. By sharing her story candidly, she offered hope to many who faced similar obstacles, reinforcing her role as more than just an entertainer—she was also a source of inspiration.

Roman’s impact stretched well beyond television and music. She became a frequent guest at churches, gospel concerts, and women’s conferences, where she combined humor with testimony, leaving audiences laughing, encouraged, and uplifted. Her ministry was deeply personal, as she often emphasized God’s ability to transform broken lives into stories of grace and renewal.

The news of her passing has brought tributes from fellow entertainers, gospel musicians, and fans alike. Many remember her as the heart of Hee Haw, a show that blended humor with country culture, while others celebrate her as a gospel singer who brought comfort and encouragement through her music. Fans recall her infectious laugh and ability to make people feel valued and seen.

Roman’s life is a testament to resilience, faith, and the power of joy. From an orphanage in Dallas to the national stage, she defied odds and left behind a legacy that bridges comedy, music, and ministry. Her journey showed that brokenness can be transformed into beauty, and she never stopped using her platform to remind others of that truth.

At 78, Lulu Roman departs as a beloved entertainer and a beacon of laughter and hope. Her legacy will endure through the countless smiles she brought to audiences, the songs that carried messages of faith, and the lives she touched with her story of redemption.