Those who knew her, worked alongside her, and those who simply admired her work and grace took to social media to honor the late actress and activist Ruby Dee, who died Wednesday at age 91.
Dee, who frequently collaborated with her husband of 56 years, Ossie Davis, performed on stage ("Jeb"), screen ("A Raisin in the Sun," "The Jackie Robinson Story," "American Gangster"), and worked tirelessly for equal rights: Dee and Davis served as masters of ceremonies for the historic 1963 March on Washington.
"Through her remarkable performances, Ruby paved the way for generations of black actors and actresses, and inspired African-American women across our country," President Obama said in a written statement.
In accepting her Tony Award on Sunday night, "Lady Day at Emerson's Bar & Grill" actress Audra McDonald praised Dee as one of the black actresses who made her career possible.
Director Spike Lee, who cast both Dee and Davis in his movie "Do the Right Thing," took to Instagram, saying, "I'm crushed by this bad news and I know Ruby has already been embraced in a warm loving hug from her life partner ... — Mr. Ossie Davis. It has been one of my great blessings in life to work with two of the finest artist and activist."
People,I Just Found Out The Loss Of Spiritual Mother,The Late,Great Ruby Dee.I'm Crushed By This Bad… http://t.co/tUQzGt2mCa — Spike Lee (@SpikeLee) June 12, 2014
U.S. & World
RIP Ruby Dee, I’m sure you and Ossie are slow dancing in heaven right now �� beautiful woman, civil rights leader and amazing actress. — Amber Patrice Riley (@MsAmberPRiley) June 12, 2014
Words cannot express how much Ruby Dee inspired me to be who I am today. I will miss her dearly... — Russell Simmons (@UncleRUSH) June 12, 2014
Ruby Dee, a legendary actress, artist,, and activist has passed. I knew her and admired her greatly. A jewel of a women. — Reverend Al Sharpton (@TheRevAl) June 12, 2014
Another legend has left us. God Bless. Ruby Dee died peacefully at home of age related causes. She was 91 years old. pic.twitter.com/eAEvm7ZGsf — Al Roker (@alroker) June 12, 2014
Mrs. #RubyDee & @DrmayaAngelou, two QUEENS of dignity and joy, now dance among the stars TOGETHER. pic.twitter.com/4NiTK0h81Q — Rev Jesse Jackson Sr (@RevJJackson) June 12, 2014
We lost another giant. A great humanitarian #RubyDee. Actress and down home sister. — Donna Brazile (@donnabrazile) June 12, 2014
We salute legendary & incomparable #RubyDee on a life well lived sharing her gifts in the struggle and on the screen… pic.twitter.com/kqJbkpBAay — White House Af-Am Ed (@AfAmEducation) June 12, 2014
Rest In Peace To Acclaimed Actress/Activist, #RubyDee. A Woman Of Grace & Humility - And A Prodigious TALENT That Will #NeverBeForgotten! — Jackée Harry (@JackeeHarry) June 12, 2014