Character actor John Beasley’s son, Mike Beasley, announced on Facebook that his father has died. He called his dad “my best friend” and referred to him as a hero in his life. He explained, “My hero was my father. Thank you for everything. I hope I made you proud. Love you more.”

John Beasley was 79 years old. His son Tyron Beasley told The Hollywood Reporter that his father died at a hospital in his hometown of Omaha, Nebraska. He was at the hospital to have tests done on his liver, but his health unexpectedly ended up declining rapidly.

John Beasley is best known for his roles in films including “Rudy,” “The Mighty Ducks,” “Little Big League,” “Walking Tall” and “Firestarter.” On TV, he played Irv Harper, the school bus driver on the WB series “Everwood,” and on the TV Land series “The Soul Man,” he played Barton Bellentine, the father of Cedric the Entertainer’s character.

Beasley didn’t start out his career as an actor. For many years, he worked on the railroad, employed by Union Pacific Railroad. He didn’t begin his acting career until he was 45 years old. Most recently, he was preparing for his Broadway debut in the musical adaptation of the movie “The Notebook.” He was cast in the role James Garner played in the movie. The musical was set to begin workshops in New York in August.

Besides acting, Beasley also gave back to his community by founding the John Beasley Theater and Workshop in Omaha with the goal of promoting live theater. He ran the theater for 13 years. 

Watch the video below to learn more about Beasley’s life and death.

Beasley is survived by his wife, Judy Beasley. They had been married for 58 years. He is also survived by his sons, his daughters-in-law, and six grandchildren including Malik Beasley who previously played for the Los Angeles Lakers.

Rest in peace.