Following the news of Slayton-Hughes’ death, the White Lotus star, 38, took to social media to share a heartfelt tribute to the late actress who played Ethel Beavers on the NBC sitcom Parks and Recreation. “It was always Ethel Beavers. Always,” Plaza wrote alongside a series of photos on Instagram, including one shot of her and Slayton-Hughes doing a scene together on the hit comedy series. “Rest in Peace Helen.” “You were so loved and admired and I wanna be you when I grow up ❤️❤️❤️,” Plaza sweetly added in the caption. As Parade reported, Slayton-Hughes’ family confirmed the news of her death on Thursday, Dec. 8, revealing that she passed away the night prior. No cause of death was released at the time. In a brief video published to Facebook Watch on Thursday, the family announced the news with a peaceful clip with music and rain sounds that opened with a quote from Slayton-Hughes that read, “I love doing drama but I’m always hired to do comedy.” The video went on to show a slideshow of photos of the late comedian, along with the text, “To our beloved Helen…you always made us laugh.” “Thank you for the love and laughter. You inspired us all by living your dream until the end,” the clip continued. “Rest now our sweet Helen. Wee know the laughter will continue where you are.” The touching video closed with another quote from Slayton-Hughes, which read, “The universe is getting ready for a big project: perparing [sic] for my departure.” In the caption, the family revealed, “Helen passed away last night. Her pain has ended but her fierce spirit lives on. Thank you for the love and support of her and her work.” “Rest sweet easy one…” the post concluded.
