Rosetta LeNoire

Rosetta LeNoire (1911-2002) was an American stage, film, and television actress known for her work in television. She had regular roles on series such as Gimme a Break! and Amen, and is particularly recognized for her role as Estelle 'Mother' Winslow on Family Matters. LeNoire was awarded the National Medal of Arts in 1999. Born in Harlem, New York City, she was the eldest of five children. As a young girl, LeNoire overcame rickets with the help of her godfather, Bill 'Bojangles' Robinson, who taught her to dance. She performed in stage theater, including the Federal Theater Project's Bassa Moona and Orson Welles' production of Macbeth.