A light from Hollywood’s Golden Age has gone out.

June Lockhart, the beloved actress who captured the world’s heart through her timeless performances in “Lassie” and “Lost in Space,” passed away peacefully of natural causes at the age of 100, her family confirmed early Friday morning.

Born in New York City in 1925 to a family of actors, Lockhart seemed destined for the stage. Her first appearance came at just eight years old in a production of Peter Ibbetson alongside her parents, Gene and Kathleen Lockhart. That performance — small but full of promise — marked the beginning of a career that would span nearly a century.

From Child Prodigy to Television Icon

Lockhart made her film debut in 1938’s A Christmas Carol, appearing with her parents once again. By her teenage years, she was already being hailed as one of Hollywood’s most promising young stars.

But it was television that made her a household name.

In the 1950s, Lockhart became the heart of American living rooms as Ruth Martin, the compassionate and steady mother in the beloved family series “Lassie.” Her gentle strength, warm presence, and moral center made her an icon of grace — a figure many viewers saw as the embodiment of home itself.

She later went on to play Dr. Maureen Robinson in “Lost in Space” (1965–1968), where she brought intelligence, courage, and humanity to the role of a mother stranded among the stars.

“She wasn’t just an actress,” wrote one fan on social media. “She was everyone’s mom — no matter what galaxy you were in.”

A Career of Depth, Dignity, and Devotion

Beyond her best-known roles, Lockhart appeared in over 70 film and television productions, including “General Hospital,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Petticoat Junction,” and even “7th Heaven.”

Her stage and screen work earned her two Emmy nominations and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960 — the same year she was honored by the Motion Picture Mothers Association as “Television Mother of the Year.”

“I’ve always believed that acting is a form of service,” Lockhart once said in an interview.

“If you can bring comfort, laughter, or understanding into someone’s life — even for a moment — that’s worth everything.”

A Century of Grace

In person, those who met her describe Lockhart as “gentle but sharp,” a woman who carried herself with quiet strength and humor.

Friends recall her sending handwritten thank-you notes to crew members, bringing snacks to long shoots, and remembering birthdays decades later.

Even in her later years, Lockhart continued to make public appearances, delighting fans at conventions and reunions. Her smile — radiant and unmistakable — never faded.

“June had this aura,” said actor Bill Mumy, who played her son in Lost in Space.

“She could command a room without raising her voice. She taught me how to treat people — with kindness first.”

Tributes From Across Generations

As news of her passing spread, tributes flooded social media.

P!nk wrote, “She walked this earth like a prayer — gentle, steady, and full of light.”

Mark Hamill shared: “June Lockhart defined compassion. She made television feel human.”

Even NASA paid tribute, referencing her role as Maureen Robinson:

“She inspired generations to look to the stars — and reminded us to bring kindness with us.”

The Legacy Lives On

June Lockhart is survived by her daughters, actress Anne Lockhart and artist Lizabeth Lockhart, and by the millions of fans who grew up watching her bring love and decency to the screen.

Her final public message, shared on her 100th birthday earlier this year, was simple and profound:

“Be grateful for the light you have — and share it. The world needs more gentle hearts.”

As her century-long journey closes, one truth remains: June Lockhart didn’t just act — she illuminated.

And long after the cameras stopped rolling, her light still glows.