Maya Angelou died at her home in Winston-Salem, N.C., her publicist confirmed on Wednesday. She was 86.
Her family released the following statement on Facebook:
"Dr. Maya Angelou passed quietly in her home before 8:00 a.m. EST. Her family is extremely grateful that her ascension was not belabored by a loss of acuity or comprehension. She lived a life as a teacher, activist, artist and human being. She was a warrior for equality, tolerance and peace. The family is extremely appreciative of the time we had with her and we know that she is looking down upon us with love."
In addition to being a celebrated author and poet, Angelou was an accomplished actor, singer, songwriter, dancer, playwright, historian, director, civil rights activist and teacher.
Last week, there was concern about her health when she skipped the 2014 MLB Beacon Awards Luncheon in Houston on May 30. She was set to be honored at the event. The MLB told attendees that Angelou would not be attending due to "health reasons."
Angelou was one of the most inspiring poets of her generation, and her quotes will live on for years to come.
"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel," she once said. Angelou tweeted for the last time May 23, telling her followers, "Listen to yourself and in that quietude you might hear the voice of God."
See what her famous fans had to say on Twitter:
Ryan Seacrest @RyanSeacrest
"I've learned that you shouldn't go thru life w/ a catcher's mitt on both hands; you need to be able to throw something back." -Maya Angelou
Marlee Matlin @MarleeMatlin
Her words, poetry and stories were so stirring. And her activism was inspiring. Sad to read about the passing of Maya Angelou. RIP.
KELENDRIA ROWLAND @KELLYROWLAND
"People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." - RIP Maya Angelou
Maggie Q @MaggieQ
Maya Angelou GOD bless you and keep you. We will NEVER forget your inspiring life of overcoming all.....
Rest in Peace.....
Alyssa Milano @Alyssa_Milano
Rest with the angels, Maya Angelou
Ramona Singer @ramonasinger
May Maya Angelou Rest in peace, a truly beautiful soul inside and out.
Cyndi Lauper @cyndilauper
Maya Angelou has passed away. She was a great light in the world. I feel honored to live in a world she influenced and touched so deeply.
Nina Garcia @ninagarcia
"You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them." RIP #MayaAngelou
Reggie Miller @ReggieMillerTNT
And now we have a Queen Angel, rest Maya Angelou, thank you for your many gifts...
Jessica Capshaw @JessicaCapshaw
Maya Angelou...I am so grateful that you shared your honesty, your talent, and your craft with the world. We have been made better for it.
Darius Rucker @dariusrucker
My heart and soul hurt today because of the passing of a true Genious Maya Angelou. Heaven has another wonderful angel walking its golden st
Piers Morgan @piersmorgan
RIP Maya Angelou. A great woman.
Mary J. Blige @maryjblige
"There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you." - Maya Angelou.
