Danielle Spencer, known for her role as Dee Thomas on the 1970s sitcom "What's Happening!!," has passed away at the age of 60. Her family spokesperson, Sandra Jones, confirmed that Spencer died on August 11 after a prolonged battle with cancer.

Spencer portrayed Dee, the witty younger sister of Roger "Raj" Thomas, in the popular ABC series that aired from 1976 to 1979. The show, set in the Watts neighborhood of Los Angeles, was notable for its focus on the lives of Black teenagers and was based on the film "Cooley High." Spencer's character was known for her catchphrase, "Ooh, I’m gonna tell mama," and her deadpan humor.

Jones expressed the family's grief, stating, "This untimely death is really hard to process right now. She is a sweet and gentle soul and she is going to be missed very, very much."

Spencer's life was marked by both triumph and tragedy. At the age of 12, she survived a serious car accident in 1977 that left her in a coma for three weeks and resulted in the death of her stepfather, Tim Pelt. The accident caused her to suffer from spinal and neurological issues, requiring multiple surgeries over the years. In 2018, she underwent emergency surgery for a hematoma related to her earlier injuries.

In 2014, Spencer was diagnosed with breast cancer and subsequently had a double mastectomy. Despite her health challenges, she remained resilient and continued to advocate for animals. She earned a doctorate in veterinary medicine from Tuskegee University in 1993 and practiced as a veterinarian.

Spencer also appeared in the sequel series "What's Happening Now!" and had a role as a veterinarian in the 1997 film "As Good as it Gets."

She is survived by her mother, Cheryl Pelt, and her younger brother, jazz musician Jeremy Pelt. In a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, Jeremy remembered his sister as more than just a child actress. He wrote, "She was a friend, an auntie to my three children who adored her, she was a daughter—and in many ways, my mother's best friend."

Reflecting on her career, Spencer once shared her surprise at being recognized decades later, stating, "I seriously can't even digest it. I mean, first of all, that the show is remembered from 40 years [ago], but then also to be featured in this museum along with other shows that have been trailblazers."

Danielle Spencer's legacy as an actress and veterinarian will be remembered by her family, friends, and fans.