Nichelle Nichols, 'Star Trek' Actress, Dead at 89

etonline.com:

Nichelle Nichols, the actress known for her groundbreaking role as Lt. Nyota Uhura on has died at the age of 89. Nichols’ son, Kyle Johnson, announced the news in a statement.“Friends, Fans, Colleagues, World I regret to inform you that a great light in the firmament no longer shines for us as it has for so many years.

Last night, my mother, Nichelle Nichols, succumbed to natural causes and passed away. Her light however, like the ancient galaxies now being seen for the first time, will remain for us and future generations to enjoy, learn from, and draw inspiration,” the statement on Nichols’ official Facebook page read.     “Hers was a life well lived and as such a model for us all.

I, and the rest of our family, would appreciate your patience and forbearance as we grieve her loss until we can recover sufficiently to speak further,” it continued. “Her services will be for family members and the closest of her friends and we request that her and our privacy be respected.” The statement ended with the show’s iconic send-off, “Live Long and Prosper.” The official Twitter account confirmed the news. «We’re deeply saddened to report the passing of Nichelle Nichols — a trailblazer, an inspiration, and so much more.

She will be deeply missed,» the tweet accompanied by a picture of Nichols read. We’re deeply saddened to report the passing of Nichelle Nichols — a trailblazer, an inspiration, and so much more.