It's with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to Denise Nickerson, the iconic actress best known for her role as Violet Beauregarde in Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory. Denise tragically passed away on July 10, 2019, just over a year after suffering a severe stroke in June 2018. Her son Josh Nickerson and his wife Jasmine broke the news in a heartfelt Facebook post, sharing that Denise was 62 years old at the time of her passing.
Denise's Final Days
Denise's health took a turn for the worse on July 8, 2019, when she experienced another major medical emergency. This sent her family rushing her to the ICU. Unfortunately, her condition deteriorated quickly, and the decision was made to take her off life support. The family’s decision wasn’t an easy one, but it came from a place of love and understanding that Denise was in a coma-like state, with no hope for recovery.
A Glimpse into Denise's Final Hours
Josh and Jasmine shared updates on Facebook, providing a window into Denise's final days. "She’s had seizures this morning and is in pulmonary and respiratory distress," they wrote on the day after Denise was admitted to the ICU. The couple continued to update their followers, noting that Denise was struggling to breathe on her own, specifically having difficulty exhaling. The doctors were doing their best to keep her comfortable, but the reality was that Denise’s time had come.
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The Heartbreaking Decision
Josh admitted that the decision to take Denise off life support was one of the hardest choices he and his family ever had to make. "They just took off all the equipment. None of it was helping, but making her only more uncomfortable. We’re telling her it’s okay to let go," he and Jasmine said in a poignant Facebook post. Despite their best efforts to remain strong, the emotional toll was immense, especially for Josh, who couldn’t bear letting his mother go.
Josh's Struggle with Loss
Josh, understandably, was devastated by the loss of his mother. Jasmine, his wife, shared on Facebook that this was the first major loss Josh had ever experienced, and it was hitting him hard. "Josh is not OK at all. He’s never really experienced a major loss like this," she wrote. "I’m just trying to support him as best I can. Please send him love or words of comfort. He is just coming to terms with the reality of the situation and doesn’t know how to process it. He says to me a few minutes ago that she won’t ever get to see or hold or know her granddaughter."
A Baby on the Way
In March, Jasmine announced that she and Josh were expecting their first child together. While Denise won’t be able to meet her granddaughter, she had expressed excitement about Jasmine’s pregnancy. Knowing that Denise was thrilled about becoming a grandmother brings some comfort to Josh and Jasmine during this difficult time.
Hollywood Mourns a Legend
With the passing of Denise Nickerson, Hollywood has lost a beloved star whose legacy will live on through her unforgettable performances. Denise's role as Violet Beauregarde in Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory remains etched in the memories of fans worldwide, a testament to her talent and charm.
