Today, the world lost one of it’s greatest voices. According to reports, Maya Angelou has died in North Carolina at the age of 86. The groundbreaking author, poet, and civil rights activist used her words to inspire and bring about change.
In a statement on her Facebook page, her family remembered her as a “warrior for equality, tolerance, and peace.”
Being a huge inspiration to so many, celebrities have also taken to social media to celebrate her legacy.
Beyoncé called her a “phenomenal woman” and posted a handwritten copy of her poem “Still I Rise,” while Rihanna recalled reading her memoir I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings as a teenager. Other R&B stars including Mary J. Blige quoted some of her famous words.
Read the heartfelt tributes to Dr. Angelou below:
Beyoncé: Rest in peace phenomenal woman.
Rihanna: Angel. #RIPMayaAngelou The first book I read as a teenager, “I know why the caged bird sings”. Felt like we knew her. She made us feel so safe, safe enough to trust her wisdom! Wisdom one can usually only acquire through experience! Thank You #MayaAngelou :’)
Pharrell Williams: Saddened by the news of Maya Angelou’s passing. A brilliant woman who contributed so much to the world. Her light will be sorely missed.
Mary J. Blige: “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” – Maya Angelou.
Kelly Rowland: God, thank you for sharing your Angel with us! Her extraordinary gift encouraged many! You will remain in our hearts forever! #weloveyouMayaAngelou
Solange: Your words will forever remain deep within the skin, and in the souls of many.
K. Michelle: Such a leader and beautiful spirit. Thank you!
Fantasia: Maya Angelo WHAT AN ANGEL YOU ARE NOW.. Up in Heaven Speaking and Bringing Tears to those Angels Eyes. I remember hearing you speak at an event.. WOW!!! Is all I can say.. Fly Angel Fly (Rest Lovely Lady Rest)
Estelle: Phenomenal Woman. Your words. Your presence always made me stand taller. Here’s to an Original. RIP
Christina Milian: May you rest peacefully #MayaAngelou May your words continue to inspire and resonate till the end of time.
Jazmine Sullivan: RIP Maya Angelou
Michelle Williams: Sending my condolences to the family and friends of Dr. Maya Angelou!. #RIPMaya
Teedra Moses: May GOD bless your beautiful amazing inspiring soul as it transcends. My heart mourns you. Your legacy is EVERYTHING. Your life, the experiences you endured and what u made of them makes me so proud to be a woman. Rest well mother Maya. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you so…
Kelly Price: Dr Maya Angelou. An amazing life lived. Amazing gifts you shared with the world. Rest now from your labor.
Keith Sweat: R.I.P. Dr. Maya Angelou. Such a beautiful spirit.
Bryan Michael Cox: There’s nothing better than love. RIP Maya Angelou. #respect
Claude Kelly: Queen Maya Angelou. Rest in Peace, Power & Paradise. It is hard to find words to describe the impact of a woman who used words so much better than any of us ever could. so I’ll just say: THANK YOU.
Rest In Heaven Maya Angelou!
