PASADENA, CA (WCMH/AP) — William Christopher, the actor best known for his role as Father John Mulcahy on the TV show M*A*S*H, died Saturday, his agent Robert Malcom told NBC Los Angeles. 

Christopher was 84. He also had roles in Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C., The Andy Griffith Show, Hogan’s Heroes, and others.

He died of cancer in the early morning hours before New Year’s Eve, according to NBC Los Angeles. He is survived by his wife and two sons.

Malcom said Christopher was diagnosed with cancer more than a year ago and had been in hospice since the beginning of the week.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara, and his two sons.

Christopher is best known for the role of Father Francis Mulcahy on “M.A.S.H.,” the 1970s TV show set during the Korean War.

“Everyone adored him,” said fellow “M.A.S.H.” actor Loretta Swit. “A great sense of humor and a great humanitarian. He became TV’s quintessential padre as Father Mulcahy on M.A.S.H. It was the most perfect casting ever known.”