Lulu Roman, Beloved ‘Hee Haw’ Comedian and Award-Winning Gospel Singer Who Inspired Millions Through Laughter and Faith, Dies at 78

BELLINGHAM, WASHINGTON — Lulu Roman, the warm-hearted comedian and soulful gospel singer best known for her role on the iconic country variety show Hee Haw, passed away on April 23, 2025, at the age of 78. Her death was confirmed by family members, who shared that she passed peacefully at her son’s home in Bellingham, Washington, where she had spent her final years surrounded by loved ones.

Born Bertha Louise Hable on May 6, 1946, in Dallas, Texas, Roman’s early life was marked by adversity. She was born with a thyroid condition that led to weight struggles and, tragically, was abandoned at birth and placed in the Buckner Orphans Home. Despite these early hardships, Lulu would grow into a larger-than-life personality who touched millions with her humor, her music, and her testimony of faith.

From Comedy to Country Fame

Roman’s journey to stardom began in the Dallas nightclub scene, where she performed comedy and dance routines under the name “Lulu Roman, the World’s Biggest Go-Go Dancer.” Her bold stage presence and natural charm caught the attention of country music legend Buck Owens, who recommended her for a new country-themed sketch comedy show.

That show, Hee Haw, premiered in 1969, and Roman quickly became one of its most beloved stars. Her comedic timing, infectious laugh, and down-to-earth personality made her a fan favorite. As one of the few regular cast members who didn’t come from a musical background, she brought something uniquely heartfelt and humorous to every episode. She stayed with the show until its original run ended in 1993.

A Journey of Faith and Redemption

Behind the scenes, Roman faced personal battles, including a struggle with drug addiction in the early 1970s. She briefly left Hee Haw during this period but returned after a dramatic life transformation. In 1973, she became a born-again Christian—a turning point that would lead to her second career in gospel music.

Over the next several decades, Roman recorded more than a dozen gospel albums, earning widespread acclaim in Christian music circles. In 1985, she received a Dove Award, one of gospel music’s highest honors, and in 1999 she was inducted into the Country Gospel Music Hall of Fame.

Her music resonated with fans not only for its vocal beauty but for the heartfelt authenticity of someone who had lived through pain and redemption. Roman was not afraid to share her struggles, using them as a testimony to encourage others.

More Than Just ‘Hee Haw’

In addition to her success on Hee Haw and in gospel music, Roman appeared in guest roles on TV shows such as Touched by an Angel and The Love Boat. She also appeared in the 1972 film Corky and remained a frequent guest at fan conventions and faith-based events across the country.

In 2019, she released her autobiography, “This Is My Story; This Is My Song”, which detailed her remarkable life—from her painful childhood to her rise to fame, her battles with addiction, and her spiritual rebirth.

A Life Remembered

Lulu Roman is survived by her son, Damon, and was predeceased by her younger son, Justin, who passed away in 2017. Though a cause of death was not immediately released, her passing has left a profound impact on the communities of country music, comedy, and Christian faith.

Tributes have poured in from fans, fellow entertainers, and religious leaders, many of whom have praised Roman for her honesty, her courage, and her ability to bring both laughter and inspiration to others. She is remembered not just as a television star, but as a beacon of hope for those facing life’s darkest moments.

As her family mourns her loss privately, they invite others to celebrate the joyful, faith-filled life Lulu Roman led—a life that proves how laughter, love, and redemption can change everything.

“She was real,” one longtime fan wrote. “You laughed with her, cried with her, and sang along with her. Lulu Roman was one of a kind.”