It is quite easy to associate loss with death, but the light and legacy that Cicely Tyson leaves behind, has us lacking nothing.

Iconic model and actress Cicely Tyson passed away peacefully on Thursday evening at age 96.

Throughout her decades-long career, Tyson stayed true to herself, and in return received several honors, accolades and awards including Emmys, a Tony, and an honorary Oscar.

Each project that Tyson touched, was gold. In each role she played, she embodied what the true essence of a Black woman is and has been. Whether it be a civil rights icon, mother, liberated enslaved person, or the “Auntie” who always gives you advice and encouragement at the family reunion.

Some of her most memorable acting roles include “The autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman” (1974), “Roots” (1977), “The Women of Brewster Place” (1989), “The Help” (2011), and critically acclaimed ABC show “How to Get Away with Murder” (2015-2020).

Several celebrities took to social media to express their grief. Tyler Perry, Ava Duvernay, Shonda Rhimes and Viola Davis to name a few, all expressed their raw emotion and memories on their platforms. Viola Davis, who played the role of Tyson’s daughter in “How to Get Away with Murder”, said she was “devastated” and “heart-broken”. That shows how much of an impact Tyson made on everyone she met and worked with.

Cicely Tyson once said, “I think when you begin to think of yourself as having achieved something, then there’s nothing left for you to work towards. I want to believe that there is a mountain so high that I will spend my entire life striving to reach the top of it.” She did just that. We love you, and will miss you, dearly. Take a bow and take your rest.

What was your favorite television show or movie that featured Cicely Tyson? Share in your comment @bsm_mag

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