Toukie Smith, the model and actress known to television audiences as Eva Rawley on 227, has died at age 74. Her children, Airyn and Julian, announced her passing on November 9. Smith died November 4 at a New York hospital after what her family described as a “long, courageous battle” with multiple sclerosis. people.com

For fans of 227, Smith brought Eva Rawley into the lively world of the show’s Washington, D.C., apartment building. She joined the NBC sitcom in 1989 and appeared during its fourth and fifth seasons, sharing the screen with stars including Marla Gibbs.

A career in fashion and television

Before her acting work, Smith established herself as a fashion model. She began modeling in the early 1970s, appeared in magazines including Vogue and Ebony, and worked with prominent designers. In 1978, she was named Bloomingdale’s Model of the Year.

Born Doris Smith in Philadelphia in 1952, she took the name Toukie from a nickname given to her by her grandmother. Her screen credits also included Miami Vice and films such as Talkin’ Dirty After Dark, I Like It Like That and The Preacher’s Wife.

Smith was the sister of fashion designer Willi Smith. She and actor Robert De Niro, her former partner, were parents to twins Airyn and Julian.

Remembering Toukie Smith

Smith’s career connected fashion, film and television. Her work on 227 remains a memorable part of the show’s history, while her modeling career reflected her impact across the fashion world.

WWETV Studios remembers Toukie Smith and sends condolences to her family, friends and fans.

Sources: People · Entertainment Weekly