Dr. Maya Angelou dies at 86

Posted by | Ray Cornelius

The Phenomenal Woman  known as Dr. Maya Angelou has died.

According to Time Warner Cable News, the award-winning author, actress, filmmaker, historian and civil rights activist was found unresponsive in her Winston Salem home.  She was 86-years-old.

Dr. Angelou’s passing comes just days after she canceled an appearance at the Major League Baseball Beacon Awards Luncheon, where she was being honored.  Wake Forest, where Dr. Angelou taught for many years, released the following statement regarding her passing:

“Today members of the Wake Forest University community mourn the loss of beloved poet, author, actress, civil rights activist and Professor Dr. Maya Angelou.  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.”

Memorial arrangements for Angelou have not yet been released.

In the meantime, enjoy Dr. Angelou’s lessons of life in this exclusive recording of her at the Woman2Woman Conference that she attended in Atlanta in March.  She was the keynote speaker for the conference luncheon. She also recites her classic poem, Phenomenal Woman.

#RIP