Ellen Corby was an American actress best known for her role as Grandma Esther Walton on the television series The Waltons. Born on June 3, 1911, in Racine, Wisconsin, she began her career in the 1930s and appeared in various films and television shows throughout her life. Corby's performance on The Waltons earned her critical acclaim, including an Emmy Award in 1975. She continued to act until her retirement in the early 1990s, leaving behind a legacy of memorable characters and contributions to the entertainment industry. Ellen Corby passed away on April 14, 1999.