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Maya Angelou Dead At 86

Will Federman |
May 28, 2014 | 7:47 a.m. PDT

Editor-in-Chief

Maya Angelou, one of the most prominent writers of our era, was found dead in her Winston-Salem, N.C. home by her caretaker early Wednesday morning. Winston-Salem Mayor Allen Jones confirmed news of Angelou's death to Fox News affiliate WGHP. Angelou was 86-years-old.

The beloved poet had recently cancelled appearances at several events over health concerns, including a Major League Baseball luncheon on May 30 where Angelou is to be presented with the "Beacon of Life Award."

SEE ALSO: Maya Angelou Reminds Us To Rise

Her best-selling 1969 autobiography, "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings," is considered one of the most important literary works of the 20th century and the first in a five volume series. Her original poem, "On the Pulse of Morning," selected for President Bill Clinton's first inauguration, became a million-seller and won the 1994 Grammy Award for "Best Spoken Word" category.

SEE ALSO: Maya Angelou At USC: "Listen to the Poetry"

Angelou was awarded the Medal of Freedom by President Obama in 2011. It is the highest honor the President can bestow upon a civilian.

Reach Editor-in-Chief Will Federman here. And follow him on Twitter.



 

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