Legendary actress Della Reese died Sunday, Page Six confirms. She was 86.
Reese, who was born in Detroit, was best known for her work on the long-running series “Touched by an Angel.” Her co-star, Roma Downey, shared a statement with People.
“On behalf of her husband, Franklin Lett, and all her friends and family, I share with you the news that our beloved Della Reese has passed away peacefully at her California home last evening surrounded by love,” Downey shared. “She was an incredible wife, mother, grandmother, friend, and pastor, as well as an award-winning actress and singer. Through her life and work she touched and inspired the lives of millions of people.”
Downey, 57, touted their close relationship which began in 1994 and extended far beyond the show’s end in 2003. “She was a mother to me and I had the privilege of working with her side by side for so many years on ‘Touched By an Angel,’ ” she added. “I know heaven has a brand new angel this day. Della Reese will be forever in our hearts. Rest In Peace, sweet angel. We love you.”
Reese was also a well-known singer and performed in the late Mahalia Jackson’s gospel group. She also starred in her own variety series, “Della,” and became an ordained minister in her lifetime. Her acting career was also well respected earning her Golden Globe and Primetime Emmy nominations for “Touched by an Angel.” She also won seven NAACP Image Awards and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1994.
In addition to her husband, Reese leaves behind four children, Deloreese, James, Franklin and Dominique.
Source: Page Six