Celebrities react to the passing of Della Reese

Della Reese

Della Reese, the singer and longtime star of "Touched By An Angel," passed away on Nov. 19. She was 86 years old. The passing was announced by Roma Downey, her dear friend and costar on the long-running TV series. "On behalf of her husband, Franklin Lett, and all her friends and family, I share with you the news that our beloved Della Reese has passed away peacefully at her California home last evening surrounded by love," Roma announced on Nov. 20. Click through to see how Hollywood is remembering Della…

"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. 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. Rest In Peace, sweet angel. We love you" –Roma Downey

"Della Reese personified grace, strength and talent. Each time we talked, I felt inspired in some way. She had that gift. Rest In Peace." –Larry King

"So sad to hear of a star who was truly #touchedbyanangel passing. #DellaReese was a true legend. And she played the mom of @MrT on #TheATeam" –Al Roker

"Saddened to hear of the passing of Della Reese. I've enjoyed her artistry as long as I can remember. May God grant her to Rest In Peace." –Reverend Al Sharpton

"We lost an angel today. RIP sweet Della Reese." –Marlee Matlin

"ELLA REESE WAS A GENUIS. HER RANGE AS AN ACTOR WAS ENDLESS. I REMAIN HEAVILY INFLUENCED BY HER WORK. SHE EFFORTLESSLY STOLE EVERY SCENE IN HARLEM NIGHTS FROM ICONS. GONE NEVA 4GOTTEN MY QUEEN #dellareese REST IN POWER" –Orlando Jones

"I know Della Reese & Redd Foxx are going at w/ the jokes as soon as she crossed those gates…" –Chad Ochocinco Johnson

"Today is not shaping up to be the best of days. Della Reese dies at 86 Jemele Hill" –Jemele Hill