By Maria Estaphanos

Actress Betty White, fondly known for her role Rose Nylund on The Golden Girls, passed away at age 99 in her home on Dec. 31, 2021. 

White died of a cerebrovascular-related incident, suffering a stroke six days before she passed. As the Center for Disease Control and Prevention states, “A stroke can cause lasting brain damage, long-term disability, or even death.” 

Her death was confirmed by friend and agent Jeff Witjas. “Even though Betty was about to be 100, I thought she would live forever,” Witjas said in a statement to the Washington Post.

Rumors spread that White died due to her receiving the booster shot three days prior to her death, some theories say that she never died at all. Family members and her agent have shut down these claims and stated they were disrespectful.

“Her death should not be politicized — that is not the life she lived.” said Witjas.

White had big plans to celebrate her 100 year milestone, including the upcoming film100 Years Young, about her life. This film would feature cameos from friends including Ryan Reynolds, Tina Fey, Robert Redford, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Clint Eastwood, Jimmy Kimmel and others. 

White’s death has affected the lives of many. Sarah Ginty a Junior at Mt.Hebron states, “It sucks to see people that shaped you and your parents’ childhood die so I was upset about that.” Since Golden Girls was such a prominent show in many of today’s adults’ lives, her death symbolizes an end of an era.

Even President Biden paid tribute to her saying, “She’s a cultural icon who will be sorely missed.” Biden continued, “Jill and I are thinking of her family and all those who loved her this New Year’s Eve.” 

Whites death also symbolizes an end of an Era. “She was the last Golden Girl that was alive so to many, her death represents the end of their childhood,” said Katherine Millen, a fan of the show.

Her death will be commemorated by recognizing all the work she’s done in her 99 years of life. White worked in television for nearly seven decades and was the oldest person to receive an Emmy (age 92). She campaigned against animal cruelty and worked to raise awareness; her achievements explaining why she was loved among many.

Her works will be passed down and recognized through generations. “My parents talked about the Golden Girls a lot to me so I feel like their love for it got passed on to me so it’s really sad to think about,” said Jadyn Hughes.

With her memory in the public’s hearts, fans can remember her by her great personality. She inspired and helped many.

“Everybody needs passion. That’s what keeps life interesting. If you live without passion, you can go through life without leaving any footprints.” – Betty White