I'm relatively new to Sanford and Son, so I don't know how much history they've given us about Fred's late wife, Elizabeth.

How long ago had she died when the series started? Was Lamont a child? How did she die?

Are viewers told what sort of woman she was and anything about her marriage to Fred?

All I know about her is............

She hooked up with Fred after her beau, Big Money Grip joined the Army. Season 3 titled, Mama's baby Papa's Maybe.

Fred loved her deeply, but everything she cooked she burned. 1st season, when he first went out with new girlfriend Donna Harris. I believe she died over twenty years ago from 1st season, and I believe that was the reason Lamont dropped out of school in the 10th grade to help Fred at home. All that was really said was that, she was sick and passed away.

I do believe that her maiden name was WINFIELD. I also thought that Lamont was of a very young age whrn she died; like maybe 8 or less. He said once that he was told that his mother had a "very fine character", if he was in the 10th grade (age 15 or so) he should have a very good memory of his mother.

Her last words were either "Take care of Lamont", "Don't ever play cards again", or "If you ever get sick, PLEASE don't use this doctor!"

(from episode "The Card Sharps", season 2)

One thing they never mentioned was how Elizabeth died. They should have explained that.

Yeah, that would have been interesting. Especially considering she died so young. She must have only been around 40. I always assumed cancer or something like that since she was in a hospital. Guess they wanted to leave that up to our imaginations though.

That she had an incredible amount of patience. After all, how many times did Fred look up to her in heaven and go "This is the big one, Elizabeth!!! I'm coming to join ya, honey!!"???:D

HAPPY NEW YEAR, EVERYONE!!