Dr. Maya Angelou dead at 86

theGRIO REPORT -Dr. Maya Angelou has passed away according to Winston-Salem Allen Joines. She was 86...

May 28, 2014

Dr. Maya Angelou has passed away, according to Winston-Salem Mayor Allen Joines. She was 86.

Joines’ assistant, Linda Jackson-Barnes, confirmed the news to theGrio.com.

NBC News has also confirmed Angelou’s death.

Jackson-Barnes gave the following statement to theGrio.com:

“The mayor is very saddened to hear of the loss of a woman of such renown and phenomenal status as Dr. Angelou. Our prayers are with her family, her staff and all the people she has worked with.”

WXII and WGHP in North Carolina were the first to report the news of Angelou’s passing.

Wake Forest University released the following statement, in part, regarding Angelou’s passing:

“Dr. Angelou was a national treasure whose life and teachings inspired millions around the world, including countless students, faculty, and staff at Wake Forest, where she served as Reynolds Professor of American Studies since 1982.”

The family of the renowned poet, scholar and activist released the following statement via 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.” – Guy B. Johnson

Angelou recently canceled a scheduled appearance at the 2014 MLB Beacon Awards Luncheon because of “health reasons.” Last month, she also canceled an appearance in Fayetteville, Arkansas, according to the Associated Press.

Click here for a slideshow on Maya’s extraordinary life.

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