> At a Glance
> – Roger Ewing, beloved Gunsmoke deputy Thad Greenwood, died Dec. 18, 2025 at 83
> – Family announced the news in an obituary; no cause was given
> – Ewing appeared in 50 episodes from 1965-1967 after debuting at 23
> – Why it matters: His portrayal of the young deputy remains a fan-favorite memory of TV’s longest-running Western
Roger Ewing, the actor who brought youthful charm to the role of deputy marshal Thad Greenwood on Gunsmoke, has died at 83. His family shared the news in an obituary published Jan. 9, 2026, confirming he passed away Dec. 18, 2025.
From College Student to TV Deputy
Ewing first stepped onto the Gunsmoke set in February 1965 at age 23, initially cast as a one-off character named Ben Lukens. Later that year he returned as Thad Greenwood, the earnest young deputy and handyman who quickly became a series regular.
- 50 episodes across seasons 11-12
- Final appearance: September 1967
- Known for his earnest, boy-next-door appeal
Early Career and Exit from Acting
Before Hollywood, Ewing tried college and worked as a lifeguard. A high-school variety-show spoof of Gunsmoke sparked his acting bug, leading to an uncredited 1964 film debut in Ensign Pulver.
1964-1965 guest spots:
- Bewitched
- The Baileys of Balboa
- The Bing Crosby Show
- Rawhide
After Gunsmoke, Ewing logged:
- The Mothers-in-Law (1967)
- Death Valley Days (1970)
- Films Smith! (1969) and Play It as It Lays (1972)
Life Beyond the Screen
Ewing left acting to chase a new passion: photography. His lens took him around the globe-Mexico, Russia, Europe, the South Pacific-and he even ran for Morro Bay city council in 2003.
> He never married and had no children, but is survived by other family members.
Key Takeaways
- Roger Ewing’s Thad Greenwood remains a Gunsmoke fan favorite
- Transitioned from actor to world-traveling photographer
- 83 years long, his life ended quietly on Dec. 18, 2025
The West lost one of its last small-screen marshals, leaving behind decades of memories for Gunsmoke devotees.
