Ralph Waite

Ralph Waite (June 22, 1928 – February 13, 2014) was an American actor, voice artist, and comedian, best known for portraying John Walton, Sr. on The Waltons, which he also occasionally directed. He also portrayed the slave ship third mate Slater in the mini-series Roots. In addition, Waite appeared in many guest roles on numerous television series, most recently in a recurring role in NCIS as Jethro Gibbes' father.