Melissa Gilbert, beloved star of the classic series "Little House on the Prairie," has shared a deeply moving tribute to her late co-star Jack Lilley, who passed away at the age of 91 at the Motion Picture & Television Fund retirement home.

Lilley, known for his memorable roles, including a stagecoach driver, was an integral part of the show's charm over several seasons. In a touching post on Instagram, Gilbert reflected on their cherished memories together, highlighting Lilley's patience and kindness during her formative years on set. "The little house family has lost one of our own,” she expressed. “He taught me how to ride a horse when I was just a wee little thing. He never said no when I would bound up to him squealing, ‘Can we go ride? Please, please, please?’"

In addition to reminiscing about their time on "Little House," Gilbert took a moment to celebrate Lilley’s extensive career that extended beyond the series. The two had a reunion on a Western pilot titled “Then Came Jones,” which also featured a young Mary Elizabeth Winstead. Gilbert fondly recalled the joy of filming the pilot and lamented its cancellation, stating, “It was all very synchronistic. Our first read-through was at Paramount Studios, where we had shot 'Little House' the first four years. I also found out we would be shooting at Big Sky Ranch, where we had filmed ‘Little House’... I walked to the set itself, and before I could even focus, I heard a familiar voice holler, ‘Hey Halfpint, you old rat-ass!!!’ In that instant, I knew I was home.”

Gilbert concluded her heartfelt goodbye with a quote from Shakespeare, demonstrating the depth of her affection for Lilley. "Oh Jack… sweet prince… may flights of angels sing thee to thy rest. Love always, Your Halfpint."

Jack Lilley's legacy in film and television endures alongside the treasured memories shared by his colleagues and fans, reminding us of the lasting impact of his work on generations of viewers. As we remember him, it's clear that both Lilley and Gilbert will forever hold a special place in the hearts of "Little House on the Prairie" fans worldwide.