Ronnie Schell Dies: ‘Gomer Pyle: USMC’ Star Was 94

Actor Ronnie Schell, who was best known for his portrayal of the amiable Private Duke Slater from the ’60s CBS sitcom Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C, has died at age 94.

His family announced his passing due to natural causes on Friday, June 12. According to ABC News, the actor had been hospitalized after a recent fall. “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ronnie Schell, who passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 94,” read a post on Schell’s official page on Facebook. “In a moment that feels both poignant and fitting, Ronnie chose to leave us on the birthday of his dear friend, Jim Nabors, a coincidence that would surely bring a smile to those who knew and loved them both.”