This week we have been cloaked in mourning... so many deaths. Many have a soap opera connection. The death of Carrie Fisher, followed by the death of her mother Debbie Reynolds a day later, had everyone reeling. If that were in a soap script, everyone would say it was over the top. Todd Fisher, brother and son of the deceased, is married to soap actress Catherine Hickland. Hickland starred on "One Life to Live" as Lindsay Rappaport. She also starred on "Capital." Michael E. Knight (Tad, "All My Children") was a previous husband. The actress retweeted her husband's touching tweets to his dear departed. In one he posted "This is a beautiful love story to witness in my 58 years. I miss them so much. Love is everything," He also posted " We have always been close, thats why my mother had me, so Carrie would have someone to look after her." Carrie has been quoted as saying, "My brother is the only sane member of my family."

On December 26, Joan Tarbuck, who played Jax's mother Lady Jane on "General Hospital," died. The actress battled a brain disorder with no known cure, and one that kills very quickly. Two weeks ago, Jax was in "Port Charles," but said he had to leave because his mother was ill. It may have been a coincidence. Perhaps the show knew of the ailment and used it as a way to get Jax out of town. The character was only to have a short arc.

Ingo Rademacher posted his sadness about the death. "She was the kindest, warmest person. Always a joy to be around. Was hoping we would have many years of wonderful scenes together. I will miss you mom." Sadly, Radmacher and his wife suffered a loss earlier this year. The couple was expecting their third child. When it turned out to be an ectopic pregnancy, the child died and the mother's life was in danger.

Drake Hogestyn (John Black, "Days of Our Lives) lost his mother Christmas week. The actor was still mourning the death of Joe Mascolo (Stefano). They may have been archenemies on the show, but they were very close in real life. After that, his pal Florence Henderson died. In a tribute to his mom, Hogestyn posted. " We've all lost some great ones lately I just lost the greatest. Love you mom." He posted a picture of his mom in her wedding dress. Just beautiful.

Enough of the death patrol already. This year, greats from Gary Shandling to Mohammed Ali have left the earth. Hopefully 2017 will give us a rest from famous obits.

To find out more about Lynda Hirsch and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate web page at www.creators.com.