Award-winning American poet Dr. Maya Angelou, writer of the classic autobiography I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, has died in her home in Winston-Salem, N.C. She was 86 years old.

Her family released a statement on Wednesday saying that Angelou passed in her home before 8:00 a.m. ET. She was found by her caretaker, Fox reported. In their statement, Angelou's family expressed gratitude that "her ascension was not belabored by a loss of acuity or comprehension," and said:

She lived a life as a teacher, activist, artist, and human being. She was a warrior for equality, tolerance and peace. The family is extremely appreciative of the time we had with her and we know that she is looking upon us with love.

Angelou reportedly had health problems for several months. Earlier this week she canceled a scheduled appearance at the Major League Baseball Beacon Awards luncheon, where she was to be honored. Last month, Angelou canceled another event at the Fayetteville Public Library in Arkansas, and sent a heartwarming letter explaining why she could not attend:

An unexpected ailment put me into the hospital. I will be getting better and the time will come when I can receive another invitation from my state and you will recognize me for I shall be the tall Black lady smiling. I ask you to please keep me in your thoughts, in your conversation and in your prayers.

The prolific writer was known not only as a renowned poet, but also as a historian, civil rights advocate, actress, and screenwriter. She wrote the screenplay and composed the score for the 1972 film Georgia, Georgia, which was the first movie made that was written by an African-American woman. The script was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize.

Angelou received over 50 honorary degrees in her lifetime, and was a professor of American studies at Wake Forest University.