This was the first episode following the death of Will Geer, and consequently Zeb "Grandpa" Walton was written out during this episode, with John explaining how empty the house feels without Grandpa and he comments just how much he misses his father. We see each of the other family members trying to come to terms, not only with Grandpa's sudden death, but also the death of Flossie Brimmer. Olivia is reminded of her good friend, Flossie, when she receives a present from Patsy Brimmer. It is her aunt's ring, which Patsy felt Flossie would like Olivia to have to remember her by.