Known for his comic hippie and clown personas and for his peace activism, this American counterculture figure founded a non-profit healthcare group called the Seva Foundation; a circus program called Camp Winnarainbow; and a California commune called the Hog Farm.
After serving briefly in the United States Army, he studied theater at Boston University under the G.I. Bill.
His life was the subject of a 2010 documentary film titled Saint Misbehavin': The Wavy Gravy Movie.
Born Hugh Nanton Romney in East Greenbush, New York, he later settled in California with his wife, Jahanara Romney (Bonnie Beecher), and his son, Howdy Do-Good Gravy Tomahawk Truckstop Romney (Jordan Romney).
During the early years of his performance career, he was a talent management client of the comedian Lenny Bruce.