Della Reese who began her career as a R&B and jazz singer in the ’50s and ’60s has died. The actress who is best known for her role in TV’s “Touched by an Angel” died Sunday night at her home in California. She was 86.
Reese, who suffered declining health, was confined to a wheelchair due to complications from type 2 diabetes.
“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,” said actress Roma Downey in a statement announcing her former co-star’s death.
Downey added:
“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.’ I know heaven has a brand new angel this day. Della Reese will be forever in our hearts.”
As her body failed her, Reese’s mind remained sharp and feisty. She took to Facebook.com in 2015 to call out “Subway guy” Jared Fogle, who is serving time for child sex abuse.
Reese leaves behind her husband, Franklin Lett, and four children.
FayesVision/WENN.com, Derrick Salters/WENN.com
