Paired to Perfection

Ricou Browning, the underwater actor who brought the Gill-Man to life in the original Creature from the Black Lagoon films, passed away on February 27, 2023, at the age of 93. The last surviving performer to portray one of Universal's original classic monsters, Browning spent a lifetime making audiences believe monsters could swim. Born in Fort Pierce, Florida, and read more

raised around the state's crystal-clear springs, Ricou Browning never intended to become a movie monster. After studying physical education at Florida State University, he worked at Wakulla Springs performing underwater demonstrations for tourists, where his ability to hold his breath for four minutes and move effortlessly underwater caught the attention of a Hollywood film crew.

In 1953, Universal Pictures arrived to scout locations for a new monster movie. They needed someone who could wear an unforgiving foam rubber suit underwater, survive long filming days, and somehow make the creature appear graceful. After watching Browning swim, they hired him on the spot.

He became the Gill-Man.

Browning performed all of the underwater scenes for Creature from the Black Lagoon (1954), Revenge of the Creature, and The Creature Walks Among Us, while another actor handled scenes on land. His fluid, almost balletic movements transformed what could have been a lumbering monster into a strangely elegant and tragic figure. Critics later described his underwater performance as "tortured romantic poetry."

Filming was physically demanding. Browning spent up to nine hours a day submerged in 71-degree water wearing a restrictive suit while outside temperatures hovered around 49 degrees. Despite the challenges, he later remarked, "I forgot I had it on. I became the creature."

When Browning passed away, he was widely recognized as the final surviving actor to portray one of Universal's original Classic Monsters, marking the end of a legendary chapter in horror film history.

His career, however, extended far beyond monsters. Browning co-wrote and co-produced the 1963 film Flipper, inspired by his fascination with dolphins, which later became the beloved television series for which he directed 37 episodes. He also choreographed underwater sequences for the James Bond film Thunderball, served as second-unit director on Disney's 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, and even directed the unforgettable underwater candy-bar scene in Caddyshack, parodying the opening of Jaws.

Ricou Browning died of natural causes at his home in Southwest Ranches, Florida, on February 27, 2023. He is survived by four children, including his son Ricou Jr., who followed his father into underwater stunt work and marine coordination for film. His wife, Fran, preceded him in death.

Whether beneath the waves as a misunderstood monster or behind the camera creating unforgettable aquatic adventures, Browning forever changed how audiences experienced life beneath the surface.

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Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) DeWitt H. “DH” Ward passed away peacefully on April 29, 2026, at the age of 91. A decorated Green Beret, lifelong soldier, devoted husband, and outdoorsman, DH spent his life serving both his country and the people he loved with quiet strength and unwavering dedication. Born on August 9, 1934, in Midlothian, Texas, DeWitt H. Ward—known read more

simply as "DH" to family and friends, and affectionately as "Darling Husband" by his wife Jane—grew up helping on the family farm and playing football. After graduating high school at just sixteen years old, he attended Texas Tech through the ROTC program while serving in the National Guard.

Upon graduating in 1955, DH accepted a commission into the United States Army, beginning a distinguished military career that would span twenty-five years. His service carried him across the globe, with assignments in Okinawa, Thailand, Taiwan, South Korea, Germany, and two combat tours in Vietnam as both a Green Beret and Special Forces commander.

A qualified paratrooper, DH frequently participated in airborne demonstrations, giving his family opportunities to proudly watch him leap from aircraft in service to his country.

Though military life meant frequent moves and long deployments, DH remained deeply committed to his family. Even while serving in Vietnam, he regularly sent letters, recorded messages, cartoons, and jokes home, ensuring that distance never weakened the bonds he shared with those he loved. Whenever possible, he introduced his family to America's national parks, campgrounds, and scenic landscapes, passing along his lifelong appreciation for the outdoors.

Following his final assignment in Germany, DH retired from the Army in 1977. He and Jane returned to Washington State to operate their 300-acre apple orchard before eventually settling in Bozeman, Montana, in 1990.

Retirement hardly slowed him down. He embraced skiing, hunting, fishing, camping, ranch work, woodworking, and community service. Together, he and Jane volunteered as Big Sky ski hosts for more than twenty years, welcoming visitors from around the world with warmth and hospitality.

Friends knew DH as someone who was always willing to lend a hand, whether repairing equipment in his workshop, maintaining his ranch, or helping neighbors with projects. His life reflected service, resilience, generosity, and an enduring love for family, country, and the outdoors.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Jane; five children; ten grandchildren; and seventeen great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his grandsons, L.J. Clayton and Ted Clayton.

A celebration of his life with full military honors was held on June 12, 2026. His legacy of leadership, courage, adventure, and devotion will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

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