The world of country comedy and music is feeling a deep loss with the passing of Lulu Roman, a longtime staple of the iconic variety show Hee Haw.
Known for her infectious humor and powerful gospel voice, Lulu touched hearts for decades — and now fans and colleagues alike are remembering the joy she brought to so many.
A Final Goodbye in Washington
Lulu Roman, born Bertha Louise Hable, died on Wednesday at the age of 78.
Her son, Damon Roman, confirmed the news, saying she passed away in Bellingham, Washington, where she had moved just seven months earlier to be closer to him.
While no cause of death has been shared, her former publicist Ben Laurro released a heartfelt statement to People, calling her “unsung” and someone who “endured much adversity in her life that helped her become a joy to others.”
A Life That Began with Challenges
Born in Dallas on May 6, 1946, in a home for unwed mothers, Lulu faced an uphill battle from the start.
She was placed in Buckner Orphans Home and lived with a thyroid condition that caused obesity — a medical challenge that also shaped how the world viewed her.
Despite these early hardships, she graduated from W.W. Samuell High School in 1964 and leaned into her natural comedic gifts to make a name for herself.
From Go-Go Dancer to Comedy Icon
Before she was known on television screens, Lulu Roman started out performing as “The World’s Biggest Go-Go Dancer” in Dallas nightclubs — some of which were owned by Jack Ruby, the man who infamously killed Lee Harvey Oswald.
Her humor quickly caught the attention of country music legend Buck Owens, who loved her quick wit and stage presence.
It was Owens who introduced her to the producers of Hee Haw, telling them, “I got your girl! She’s in Dallas!” That connection landed her a spot in the show’s very first episode in 1969.
A Comedic Mainstay on Hee Haw
Initially, Lulu played background characters, but her natural charm quickly earned her a place in regular skits, like The Culhanes.
She appeared in more than 150 episodes between 1969 and 1992, becoming a fan favorite for her vibrant presence and sharp comedic timing.
However, her time on the show wasn’t without challenges.
In 1971, she was arrested for drug possession — including marijuana, LSD, speed, and meth — and sentenced to four years in prison.
That led to a temporary exit from the show.
Redemption, Faith, and a New Chapter
Lulu’s life took a dramatic turn in 1973 when she became a born-again Christian.
Her faith transformed her, and with her newfound spiritual focus, she asked the Hee Haw producers not only for her job back but also for the opportunity to sing.
They agreed — and from there, Lulu launched a gospel music career that spanned decades.
She released her first of 12 gospel albums in 1974, despite never having formal vocal training.
Her impact in the gospel world was cemented when she was inducted into the Country Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 1999.
Her Legacy Beyond Hee Haw
Outside of Hee Haw, Lulu made appearances in shows like Hee Haw Honeys, The Love Boat, and even in the 1972 film Corky.
Her story — filled with highs and lows — was detailed in her 2019 autobiography This Is My Story; This Is My Song.
Tragically, she wrote the book two years after losing her youngest son, Justin, in 2017 — a loss that added another layer of depth to her already moving life journey.
Lulu Roman may have started life facing tremendous obstacles, but she turned pain into laughter, adversity into inspiration, and faith into purpose.
Whether making audiences laugh on Hee Haw or lifting spirits with her gospel music, she leaves behind a legacy of resilience, humor, and heart.
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