World-renowned poet and author Dr. Maya Angelou has died. The 86-year-old inspirational novelist was found dead in her Winston-Salem, N.C. home on Wednesday morning, May 28. Her publicist, Helen Brann, confirmed the news to several media outlets.
"She'd been very frail and had heart problems, but she was going strong, finishing a new book," Brann told ABC News. "I spoke to her yesterday. She was fine, as she always was. Her spirit was indomitable."
Winston-Salem Mayor Allen Joines also confirmed the news saying that Angelou was found by her caretaker, Fox8.com reports. The poet recently canceled a scheduled appearance to be held in her honor due to health complications.
On Facebook, Angelou apologized for having to miss the event.
"An unexpected medical emergency caused me the greatest disappointment in having to cancel my visit to the Major League Baseball Civil Rights Game ceremony. I am so proud to be selected as its honoree. However, my doctors told me it would be unadvisable for me to travel at that time. My thanks to Robin Roberts for speaking up for me and thank you for all your prayers. I am each day better."
According to Fox, Angelou was scheduled to receive the "Beacon of Life Award" at the 2014 MLB Beacon Award Luncheon on May 30 in Houston, Texas. Following the news of Angelou's death, Wake Forest University issued a statement telling students and faculty that a campus memorial service for the "Still I Rise" poet would be announced at a later date.
"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. Our thoughts and prayers are with Dr. Angelou's family and friends during this difficult time."
