Casey LaLonde, the grandson of Hollywood icon Joan Crawford, who was just five years old when she died in 1977, died suddenly at home on Monday, June 15, at the age of 54. Casey, who dedicated his life to keeping her memory and movies alive, was the son of one of Joan's adopted daughters Cathy Crawford LaLonde. Cathy was adopted with her twin, Cynthia, in 1947. Joan was one of the biggest names in Hollywood throughout its golden era and won an Oscar in 1946 for her role in Mildred Pierce.

Casey's official obituary states that he managed the narrative presented about his grandmother, focusing on her career and what she meant to him and his mother. He shared home movies publicly and introduced her films around the United States. He also helped bring about the re-release of the 1932 pre-code drama Letty Lynton, a film not seen for 90+ years, at the TCM Film Festival in May this year. "He loved meeting her fans and had built amazing friendships throughout this community," it read.

It also spoke of Casey's gentle side, sharing: "He was known for his kindness, being the life of the party, and his gift for storytelling.

"He loved all animals and never passed up a chance to pet a donkey or someone else’s dog. He spent half of his income feeding the birds. He never met an animal he didn’t like and would often be found feeding or rescuing them like the Disney Princess we believed he aspired to be."

Tributes flooded in for the star as details of his death became public. In an Instagram post sharing the sad news, one person penned: "I’m still shocked. He was such a supportive and kind man. He will be greatly missed. I’m glad I was able to know him."

Another added, "He was so enthusiastic and generous with his time. Really saddened to learn of this tonight."

A third chimed in: "This is a crushing blow. Casey did so much to honour Joan’s legacy, and it was one of the highlights of my year meeting him last November. I am so glad he was able to see ‘Letty’ in all its restored glory."

A fourth shared: "So sorry to hear of his passing. He seemed like such a nice man. I remember he commented on something I posted on one of your posts. So sweet. May he rest in peace. Sending prayers for comfort to his family and friends."

A fifth commented: "I didn’t want to believe it when I heard the news; Casey did so much to honour his grandmother's legacy."

Meanwhile, a sixth wrote: "My heart breaks at the passing of Casey. He was truly one of the greatest people I had the pleasure of meeting. I have peace, knowing that he’s reunited with his grandma."