British author Sir Terry Pratchett - an icon in the world of fantasy literature - has passed away at the age of 66.
Pratchett published more than 70 books over the course of his 40 year career. He is best known for the Discworld series of novels.
Pratchett was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2007, but continued working until the end. He published his final book in 2014.
The Discworld series - which take place in a flat world perched on the backs of four elephants - began in 1983 and eventually included more than 40 installments.
Sir Terry was knighted in 1998, and in 2000 he was declared the UK's second most popular author, beaten only by J.K. Rowling.
Known for his distinct style of dress and sharp wit, Pratchett was a favorite on British talk shows and at fan conventions.
Pratchett stated in interviews that he had no fear of dying, and the manner in which his passing was announced seemed to confirm that he remained courageous until the end.
In the Discworld books, the character of Death spoke in all capital letters, so when it came time to break the sad news of Pratchett's passing, his family did so in a fan-friendly fashion:
"AT LAST, SIR TERRY, WE MUST WALK TOGETHER," the tweets read. "Terry took Death's arm and followed him through the doors and on to the black desert under the endless night. The end."
A statement from Pratchett's publicist states that the author passed away "with his cat sleeping on his bed, surrounded by close friends."
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