‘Happy Days’ Star Anson Williams Marries at 73 after Beating Cancer — His Series Co-star Was His Best Man

Anson Williams, known as Warren “Potsie” Weber from “Happy Days,” revealed he just got married at 73.

His friend he often calls “brother,” who was also his series co-star, served as his best man during the ceremony.

After beating cancer, he devoted his life to his family and lives in a small farm town.

Anson Williams is most popularly known for starring as Warren “Potsie” Weber in the American sitcom, “Happy Days”—a somewhat gullible yet good-hearted singer who entertained the audience throughout the show’s 11 seasons.

The iconic role became integral to Williams’ career and earned him three Golden Globe Award nominations for Best Series, Miniseries, or TV Film, and Best Supporting Actor. But recently, the actor has been in the news for a completely different reason.

Anson Williams as Warren "Potsie" Weber in "Happy Days" | Source: Getty Images

Williams, 73, is a happily married man after tying the knot with Sharon MaHarry on Saturday, May 6, 2023. The lovely and dreamy wedding ceremony occurred in his own yard, marking an important milestone in the actor’s life.

In addition to a rocky love life, Williams endured a harrowing health battle.
The TV icon looked dapper in a black suit, which he paired with a light blue dress shirt and a gray patterned tie. He also wore a boutonniere on the jacket’s lapel and finished his look with black spectacles.

On the other hand, Williams’ bride looked stunning in a full-sleeve floor-length lace gown comprising a boat neck and full skirt. She let her short blonde tresses down, with some of her hair pinned away from her face, and held a lovely flower bouquet.

The newlyweds beamed joyfully as they eternalized their love surrounded by their loved ones. Williams, who once ran for mayor of Ojai but was unsuccessful, wed MaHarry at a private residence in the seaside town of Los Angeles.

The couple’s wedding ceremony took place in the groom’s lush green and spacious yard, adorned with colossal flower and plant pots. Bright lights were hung from trees to create a mesmerizing effect and make the occasion even more special.

Friends and family watched in awe as MaHarry’s daughter walked her down the aisle to marry the love of her life. A romantic tune played in the background as the bride and groom vowed to stay together for the rest of their lives.

According to his Facebook profile, Williams got engaged to MaHarry on April 3. Throughout the ceremony, he wore a bright, warm smile that perfectly encapsulated his happiness. Williams’ best man was none other than his series co-star, Don Most, who played Ralph Malph on “Happy Days.”

The two men share a phenomenal bond that dates back to their time on the show. Williams considers Most a great friend and refers to him as his “brother.” The duo’s heartwarming connection has stayed strong over the years.

When Williams shared photos from his big day on social media, many fans noticed Most’s presence and left messages of appreciation and support for him and the newlyweds.

“Congratulations!!! What a beautiful bride and I love your best man! He’s still got it!” wrote one user. “Anson you both look amazing. I haven’t [seen] you smile like that in a long while. God Bless you both,” commented another netizen.

Meanwhile, the happy groom, who couldn’t contain his excitement while looking at his gorgeous bride, captioned his Facebook post, “A magical moment in time.”

Williams was said to have met his better half in the winter of his life and knew she was the one meant for him. After surviving a terrifying health ordeal and seeing his marriage of 30 years come to an end, he still believes, “It’s never too late to get it right!”

MaHarry has been running a successful career as a seasoned real estate agent and has also dabbled in advertising and writing. She holds a degree in English from Roanoke College in Salem, Virginia.

Earlier, she served as the senior vice president and creative director at Young and Rubicam Advertising Agency in New York. She has also written the book, “Crazy Mama: A Memoir of Love and Madness.” She has one daughter, Lindsay, who works as a journalist in Los Angeles.

Williams married MaHarry in Ojai, California, a small town where he moved in 2011 to enjoy a quiet, peaceful life. Talking about his decision to leave Los Angeles at the time, the “Melrose Place” alum expressed how he wanted his kids to live in a fail-safe community.

Back then, he only went to Ojai occasionally or on weekends but fell in love with its people and ambiance. Gradually, Williams started visiting the place more often with his family and moved there permanently.

In addition to falling in love with Ojai’s loving community and safe environment, the place reportedly offered Williams a tranquil respite from his personal woes. He further mentioned:

“I owe a lot to Ojai for that, for my health, my sanity, and the ability to move forward.”

Williams has been married twice before—he tied the knot with Lorrie Mahaffey in 1978 and called it quits in 1986. His second marriage was to Jackie Gerkens, and after staying together for over three decades and sharing five kids, there was trouble in paradise for the duo. Initially, they broke up but changed their minds soon after and decided to give their relationship another chance.

The duo first ventured on the divorce road in September 2019; however, a month later, Williams was reportedly in court to file for a dismissal. However, nine months later, things turned odd, and the couple finally divorced in 2020.

Actor Anson Williams and wife Jackie Gerken attend The National Conference of Christians and Jews Gala Honoring Robert Wright on October 16, 1989 at Century Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

In addition to a rocky love life, Williams endured a harrowing health battle. A little before Christmas 2016, he received his Stage 2 colon cancer diagnosis.

Soon afterward, he had two surgeries and stayed in the hospital for three weeks. Not only did he emerge victorious in his battle against the life-threatening condition, but he also gained a new perspective on life.

After understanding his purpose for living, Williams said he developed a newfound love and appreciation for his family, including his children and grandchildren. He expressed:

“I always knew I loved them, and they were important, but now it’s at a whole new level.”

Today, Williams is a doting grandfather to four grandkids and a married man, and we hope he continues to celebrate life and create precious memories!

Grandkids Fought over Who Would Inherit Grandma’s Bigger House – But Grandma and Karma Had the Last Laugh

Margaret was 83, fiercely independent, and tired of her family circling her like vultures. When she vanished without a trace, leaving behind only a cryptic note, her children were frantic. They never imagined her bold final move would leave them stunned.

My name’s Dorothy, and I’m 80 years old. I never thought I’d have a story about my best friend, but here I am. Margaret, who I’ve known for decades, deserves to have her story told.

A smiling woman | Source: Pexels

A smiling woman | Source: Pexels

She was the sharpest, sassiest 83-year-old I’ve ever met. She called me her “partner in crime,” though most of our crimes were eating too many donuts or gossiping over coffee.

Margaret had a modest life but a smart one. She lived in a cozy little bungalow, the kind with flower boxes under the windows. She also owned a big, beautiful colonial-style house across town. That house was her husband Tom’s pride and joy.

A colonial house | Source: Pexels

A colonial house | Source: Pexels

When he passed 20 years ago, Margaret started renting it out. “Tom would’ve hated it,” she’d say, “but a lady’s got to live.” The rent covered her bills, and Margaret never relied on anyone, not even her kids.

“Dorothy, let me tell you something,” she’d say, wagging a finger. “Independence is a woman’s best friend. Next to coffee, of course.”

A woman with a coffee cup on her patio | Source: Pexels

A woman with a coffee cup on her patio | Source: Pexels

But last year, everything started to change. Margaret’s health took a downturn. She got weaker, and for the first time, she needed a little help. I started running errands for her, and her kids, Lisa and David, began showing up more often.

At first, it seemed like they cared. Then I noticed they weren’t helping. They were circling.

A brother and sister | Source: Midjourney

A brother and sister | Source: Midjourney

Lisa was always dressed like she was going to a fancy brunch. Perfect nails, designer purse, big sunglasses perched on her head. “It’s such a shame that big house is just sitting empty. A family like mine could really put it to use,” she’d say.

David was practical, but not in a good way. He’d show up with his laptop and act like Margaret’s financial advisor, even though she never asked him to.

A man with a laptop | Source: Pexels

A man with a laptop | Source: Pexels

“Mom, you’re sitting on a gold mine with that house. You know, selling it could set you up for life—or help the kids. Just something to think about.”

Margaret hated it. “I’ll decide what to do with my houses when I’m good and ready,” she’d tell them. “And don’t you dare think I’m leaving this Earth anytime soon.”

An angry elderly woman | Source: Pexels

An angry elderly woman | Source: Pexels

The grandkids weren’t any better. Lisa’s oldest, Jessica, was the queen of fake sweetness. She’d bring over baked goods with little notes like, “Grandma, don’t you think a growing family deserves a beautiful home?” David’s son, Kyle, was blunt. “Grandma, it’d be a shame if the big house got sold instead of staying in the family.”

One afternoon, Margaret had enough. We were sitting in her kitchen drinking tea when we heard Lisa and David arguing in the living room.

A man arguing with his sister | Source: Midjourney

A man arguing with his sister | Source: Midjourney

“You’ve got three kids,” Lisa said, her voice rising. “You don’t need more space.”

“Oh, please,” David shot back. “Your kids are practically grown. I’ve got college to think about, and that house could help.”

Margaret rolled her eyes and shuffled to the door. “Enough!” she snapped, stepping into the room. “You’d think I was already six feet under with the way you’re fighting over my stuff.”

An angry elderly woman | Source: Freepik

An angry elderly woman | Source: Freepik

Lisa opened her mouth, but Margaret raised a hand. “No. I’m still here, and I’m not splitting my house in two just to shut you up. Go bicker in your own homes.”

David looked embarrassed, but Lisa crossed her arms. “We’re just trying to help, Mom.”

“Help?” Margaret scoffed. “If you want to help, wash the dishes. Otherwise, don’t come around here with your nonsense.”

An angry woman pointing | Source: Freepik

An angry woman pointing | Source: Freepik

When they left, Margaret turned to me and shook her head. “They’re shameless, Dorothy. Just shameless.”

I patted her hand. “They’ll back off eventually.”

She smirked. “Don’t count on it. But I’ve got a plan.”

“What are you going to do?” I asked cautiously.

Two women talking in their kitchen | Source: Midjourney

Two women talking in their kitchen | Source: Midjourney

Margaret didn’t answer right away. She just smiled like I hadn’t seen in years. “You’ll see,” she said simply.

A week later, Margaret was gone.

She left no warning, no calls, no explanations—just a single note on my doorstep. It was written in her neat, no-nonsense handwriting:

A note on the doorstep | Source: Midjourney

A note on the doorstep | Source: Midjourney

“Dear Dorothy,

Don’t worry about me. I’m safe, and I need some time to myself. Keep an eye on the vultures for me. I’ll be back when I’m ready.

Love, Margaret.”

A woman writing a note | Source: Midjourney

A woman writing a note | Source: Midjourney

At first, I thought she might have gone to a nearby bed-and-breakfast or was staying with an old friend. But as days turned into weeks, it became clear she was much further than that. Her phone was disconnected, and no one—not even her children—knew where she was.

Lisa and David were frantic. They showed up at my house constantly, asking if I had heard from her.

A nervous woman | Source: Pexels

A nervous woman | Source: Pexels

“She wouldn’t just leave,” Lisa insisted, her voice teetering between anger and worry. “This isn’t like her.”

David was less dramatic but just as concerned. “She’s punishing us,” he said flatly, pacing my living room. “That’s what this is about. She’s making a point.”

An angry confused man | Source: Pexels

An angry confused man | Source: Pexels

I played dumb, shrugging whenever they pressed me for information. “I haven’t heard from her,” I lied, knowing full well that Margaret would’ve wanted it that way.

Then, one quiet morning, I found a postcard in my mailbox. The picture on the front was of a serene mountain scene, snowcapped peaks under a bright blue sky. The handwriting on the back was unmistakably Margaret’s:

A mountain forest | Source: Pexels

A mountain forest | Source: Pexels

“Dear Dorothy,

I’m finally breathing fresh air. Wish you were here—but don’t tell the vultures. I’ll write again soon.

Love, Margaret.”

I stood on my porch, clutching the card, tears stinging my eyes. Margaret wasn’t just gone. She was free. And as much as I missed her, I couldn’t help but feel a little envious.

A happy woman with a postcard | Source: Midjourney

A happy woman with a postcard | Source: Midjourney

When Margaret returned, she looked like a new woman. Her cheeks were rosy, her step lighter, and her eyes had a spark that had been missing for years.

“Well, don’t just stand there gawking, Dorothy,” she said, grinning as she breezed through my door with a small suitcase. “I’m back, and I’ve got stories to tell. Put the kettle on.”

I couldn’t stop staring. She looked ten years younger. There was a calm, almost radiant energy about her.

A smiling elderly woman | Source: Pexels

A smiling elderly woman | Source: Pexels

“Where were you, Margaret?” I asked, half-laughing and half-serious.

She wagged a finger. “A lady never reveals all her secrets. Just know that I went where I needed to go.”

A few days later, Margaret passed away peacefully in her sleep. I found her in bed, a small smile on her face, as if she’d simply drifted off into a dream.

An elderly woman smiling in her sleep | Source: Midjourney

An elderly woman smiling in her sleep | Source: Midjourney

The day of Margaret’s will reading was overcast, and the lawyer’s office was packed. Lisa and David sat on opposite ends of the room, their spouses and grown children huddled close, whispering and casting suspicious glances at one another. The air buzzed with anticipation.

I sat quietly in the corner, clutching my purse. Margaret had shared enough with me that I knew what was coming, but that didn’t make it any less thrilling.

A serious woman looking up | Source: Pexels

A serious woman looking up | Source: Pexels

The lawyer, a composed man with a sharp suit and a no-nonsense demeanor, began with the formalities. Margaret had left some sentimental items to friends, small donations to charity, and a few keepsakes to her grandchildren. The family’s polite nods were a thin veil over their growing impatience.

Finally, the lawyer paused and looked up. “Now, regarding the properties,” he said, flipping to the next page.

A lawyer in his office | Source: Pexels

A lawyer in his office | Source: Pexels

Lisa’s head shot up. David leaned forward, elbows on his knees.

“The large house and the bungalow have both been sold,” the lawyer announced.

“What?” Lisa’s voice cracked as she shot out of her chair. “She sold them? Without telling us?”

David looked equally stunned, his face turning a deep shade of red. “She… what did she do with the money?” he demanded.

A shocked man looking at the papers | Source: Pexels

A shocked man looking at the papers | Source: Pexels

The lawyer remained calm. “She traveled extensively, fulfilling a lifelong dream. She left a note for her family.” He opened an envelope and read aloud:

“To my beloved children and grandchildren,

Thank you for reminding me that life is short and my happiness is my own to claim. I hope you learn from my example: spend what you’ve earned, enjoy what you’ve built, and live while you can. The houses are gone, but the memories I made will last forever.

A woman writing her will | Source: Midjourney

A woman writing her will | Source: Midjourney

Dorothy, the money I’ve left is yours. Don’t spend the rest of your life tied to this street. Use it to see the world, just like I did. Live boldly.”

The room erupted.

“She what?!” Lisa shrieked. “That house was supposed to stay in the family!”

A shocked woman | Source: Pexels

A shocked woman | Source: Pexels

“This is insane!” David thundered. “Who spends everything without leaving something behind?”

Jessica, Lisa’s eldest, flipped through the photo album the lawyer handed over, her jaw dropping. “Is this… Grandma on a gondola? In Venice?”

I couldn’t help but chuckle. Margaret would’ve loved this.

A happy woman in a gondola | Source: Midjourney

A happy woman in a gondola | Source: Midjourney

As the lawyer flipped through the album, he narrated some of Margaret’s escapades: riding a Vespa, sipping wine in a vineyard, and dancing in a village square. Each photo was more joyful than the last, a testament to her unapologetic embrace of life.

“She used us,” Lisa hissed, glaring at me. “Did you know about this?”

An angry woman | Source: Pexels

An angry woman | Source: Pexels

I raised my tea cup, smiling. “All I know is Margaret did what made her happy. Isn’t that what you wanted for her?”

A month later, I stood at the airport with her photo album tucked into my carry-on. My first destination was Paris.

A woman in an airport | Source: Midjourney

A woman in an airport | Source: Midjourney

As the plane soared above the clouds, I pulled out the album and flipped through the pages. There was Margaret, laughing in the sunshine, raising a glass in some charming café.

“This one’s for you, Margaret,” I whispered, raising a tiny plastic cup of champagne.

A laughing elderly woman | Source: Midjourney

A laughing elderly woman | Source: Midjourney

This work is inspired by real events and people, but it has been fictionalized for creative purposes. Names, characters, and details have been changed to protect privacy and enhance the narrative. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental and not intended by the author.

The author and publisher make no claims to the accuracy of events or the portrayal of characters and are not liable for any misinterpretation. This story is provided “as is,” and any opinions expressed are those of the characters and do not reflect the views of the author or publisher.

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