Maya Angelou Dies at 86

Maya Angelou died at the age of 86, according to a statement from her family. Angelou was an acclaimed author and poet, receiving numerous awards throughout five decades of writing.

“Dr. Maya Angelou passed quietly in her home before 8:00 a.m. EST,” said the statement. “Her family is extremely grateful that her ascension was not belabored by a loss of acuity or comprehension. He 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.”

Angelou’s most well-known work is the first in a series of autobiographical novels, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings. The book documents the first 16 years of Angelou’s life, including struggles with racism and being raped at the age of seven; the young Angelou would not speak for almost six years after the trauma.

According to WGHP, Angelou was schedule to receive the “Beacon of Life Award” in Houston May 30.

Publication date: May 28, 2014