The entertainment industry is heartbroken over the passing of Danielle Spencer, the cherished child star known for her role as Dee Thomas in the classic 1970s sitcom, What’s Happening!!. At 60 years old, she succumbed to a prolonged fight with cancer and cardiac arrest, leaving a remarkable legacy as an actress, veterinarian, and significant source of inspiration.

Below, we honor her life, career, and the heartfelt tributes from those who knew her best.

Danielle Spencer’s Cause of Death and Final Days

Spencer passed away on August 11, 2025, in a Richmond, Virginia hospital after enduring ongoing health challenges. Her family spokesperson confirmed that her death was attributed to gastric cancer and cardiac arrest.

Her health struggles began in 2014 when she was diagnosed with breast cancer, resulting in a double mastectomy. Additionally, she dealt with complications from a 1977 car accident that caused lasting spinal and neurological problems.

In 2018, she underwent emergency brain surgery for a bleeding hematoma, a delayed effect of the accident. Despite these challenges, she remained resilient.

“She suffered for a very long time but did it with a great deal of courage.” — Haywood Nelson, co-star.

Her brother, Jeremy Pelt, shared a moving tribute:

“Many of you knew her as ‘Dee,’ but she was more than a child actress. She was a friend, an auntie, a daughter, a veterinarian, and MY sister and protector.”

Danielle Spencer David has passed away at 60 from cancer.

Danielle Spencer appeared on “What’s Happening!!” at 11 years old as Dee Thomas, little sister of Roger Thomas.

After 12 years of acting, Danielle would go to college & become a Veterinarian.

Many prayers to her family! pic.twitter.com/6jH02cHpdy

— Southern FFA Family (@FFAFamily) August 12, 2025

From Child Star to Veterinarian: A Life of Reinvention

Spencer’s career began at age 9, landing her breakout role as Dee Thomas at 11. The character’s sassy catchphrase, “Ooh, I’m gonna tell Mama!” became iconic.

After the show ended, she left acting to pursue veterinary medicine, earning a doctorate from Tuskegee University in 1993. She later appeared in As Good as It Gets as a vet, blending her passions.

“I’ve always had a knack for caring for animals and been interested in chemistry and bacteriology.” — Danielle Spencer.

In 2016, she was honored at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture, a milestone she called unbelievable.

Tributes from Co-Stars and Loved Ones

Her What’s Happening!! family shared heartfelt messages:

“We have lost a daughter, sister, cast member, veterinarian, animal rights proponent, and cancer heroine. Our Shero.” — Haywood Nelson.

Holly Robinson Peete, a childhood friend, wrote:

“Oh, this is just gutting. I’m so sad to hear about the loss of this beautiful woman.”.