Darlene Cates, best known for her role of Gilbert’s mom in What’s Eating Gilbert Grape, has died on Sunday.

Her family announced Darlene passed away early Sunday morning in her sleep.

On the show called Too Heavy to Leave Their House, Darlene spoke up about obesity and a pelvic infection which made her gain around 150 pounds.

Peter Hedges discovered her and offered her a role in the Gilbert Grape. Along with Leonardo DiCaprio, they made an instant classic out of the film.

Darlene Cates, best known for her role of Gilbert’s mom in What’s Eating Gilbert Grape, has died on Sunday.

Her family announced Darlene passed away early Sunday morning in her sleep.

On the show called Too Heavy to Leave Their House, Darlene spoke up about obesity and a pelvic infection which made her gain around 150 pounds.

Peter Hedges discovered her and offered her a role in the Gilbert Grape. Along with Leonardo DiCaprio, they made an instant classic out of the film.