Ralph Waite, son of Ralph H. Waite and a veteran actor best known for his role on "The Waltons," died on Thursday, Feb. 13. He passed away at his home in South Palm Desert, Calif. at the age of 85.

Ralph Waite's first big role was on the 1970s family drama, "The Waltons," in which he played patriarch John Walton. His wife on the show, Olivia, was played by Michael Learned and Richard Thomas and Robert Wightman, both played their son, John Boy.

Although nominated for an Emmy in 1978 for the role, Ralph Waite had only one TV credit prior to his nine-year run. During this time, the actor received another Emmy nomination for his role in "Roots."

One of his first film roles was a small part as the character Alibi in the 1967 Paul Newman film "Cool Hand Luke." In recent years Waite had recurring roles in CBS crime drama "NCIS" and NBC daytime soap opera "Days of Our Lives."

But Ralph Waite's most enduring role was the Virginia lumber mill owner of Walton's Mountain during the show's run from 1972 to 1981.

"Ralph was a good honest actor and a good honest man," Learned said in a statement. "He was my spiritual husband. We loved each other for over 40 years. He died a working actor at the top of his game. He was a loving mentor to many and a role model to an entire generation. I'm devastated."

Waite, who ran unsuccessfully for U.S. Congress three times as a Democrat, also appeared in the 1992 drama film "The Bodyguard" and 1993 action thriller "Cliffhanger."

With a multi-decade career that included television, film, theater and even politics, Waite never strayed far from the public eye. He most recently appeared on such shows as "NCIS" and "Bones" -- playing Booth's grandfather, Hank, Waite was last seen in that show's big wedding episode.

"Bones" creator Hart Hanson posted his reaction to the death on Twitter.

Born in New York State on June 22, 1928, Waite initially worked as a social worker and as a minister. He left his church position at the age of 32 and started his acting career on Broadway and in films.

Waite is survived by two daughters.