Actress Beatrice (Bea) Arthur, who starred in the popular Maude and Golden Girls TV series, died Saturday at age 86, according to her family.
The gravelly voiced performer with the deadpan delivery won Emmys for her roles in both series, which were also critically acclaimed.
Arthur died peacefully at her Los Angeles home with her family at her side, family spokesman Dan Watt said. She had cancer, Watt said, but gave no other details.
"She was a brilliant and witty woman," said Watt, who was Arthur's personal assistant for six years.
Arthur's Golden Girls castmates say they will miss the irreverent performer.
"I'll miss that courage and I'll miss that voice," Rue McClanahan said in a statement.
May 13, 1922 - April 25, 2009.
R.I.P. Im Really gonna miss her, even if i don't know her. i just loved her role. she was great. 2 golden girls have passed away. its really sadd. Bea had Cancer. :(
I NEVER fail, i'm just SUCCESSFUL in finding out what doesn't work Freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed.