Wasn't allowed to attend public school in Austin, Texas until he was 9 years old because of his size. He eventually reached the height of 4 feet 6 inches.
Late in the 1930s, he joined The Stanley R. Graham All Midget Circus troupe which performed at Dallas Texas State Fairgrounds. This eventually led to an offer from Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer to play a Munchkin, earning a salary of $700.
Survived by his wife, Myrna, three daughters and several grandchildren and great grandchildren.