Richard Roundtree-Famous Actor Dies

Actor Richard Roundtree was a talented actor. We have some of his accomplishments in this story. Mr. Helmut and Mrs. Carol Gertjegerdes knew Mr. Roundtree as a model. Enjoy these comments.

Columbus, Georgia –  Here are a few remarks from Helmut and Carol Gertjegerdes, who worked with Grace Del Marco Model Agency and the Ophelia DeVore School of Charm in NYC before moving to Columbus, GA in 1973 to manage The Columbus Times Newspaper.

How did you know Richard Roundtree? Mrs. Gertjegerdes responded:”I was working as the director of the Grace Del Marco Model Agency (at that time, the agency was at 55 West 42nd St. and the school was at 1697 Broadway) and Richard came to the agency to pursue a modelling career.  Some of the top Black male models with Grace Del Marco Agency at that time were Dave Gardner, Don Lynn, Don Ramsey and Jewel Willis. I knew Richard was a good type; he was 6’ 1” and wore a 40L in a men’s suit.  He was immediately signed up with the agency and he was sent out on as many go-sees (prospective jobs) at that time, she added.

Helmut said: “My wife was in charge of the model agency and I would support her as much as I   could. I was also a photographer for the agency, worked on several head sheets and was part of the Ophelia DeVore School cosmetics division. I was usually the transportation when Richard needed to get from one place to another. We always made sure he was on time.”

Richard Roundtree was already becoming a familiar face in the modelling world and was discovered by the famous photographer Gordon Parks. We were delighted to see Richard become a well-known actor. He was known for his role as the detective John Shaft in 1971, in “Shaft.” He was part of the cast in “Roots” in 1977 and played an army sergeant in Inchon in 1981. 1984 featured Richard Roundtree with Burt Reynolds in City Heat. Followers of several TV series may have seen him in a Chicago Fire, Soul Food and Grey’s Anatomy.

Many of his friends remember him for his ability to be understanding with people from various backgrounds. He was honored in NYC by the Black Expo, sponsored by Operation Breadbasket-chairman Dr. William A. Jones, Jr.

Mr. Roundtree died October 24, 2023 at age 81 years old.