Celebrities, Friends and Fans Mourn Ruby Dee

Those who knew her, worked alongside her, and those who simply admired her work and grace took to social media to honor the late actress and activist Ruby Dee, who died Wednesday at age 91.

Dee, who frequently collaborated with her husband of 56 years, Ossie Davis, performed on stage ("Jeb"), screen ("A Raisin in the Sun," "The Jackie Robinson Story," "American Gangster"), and worked tirelessly for equal rights: Dee and Davis served as masters of ceremonies for the historic 1963 March on Washington.

"Through her remarkable performances, Ruby paved the way for generations of black actors and actresses, and inspired African-American women across our country," President Obama said in a written statement.

In accepting her Tony Award on Sunday night, "Lady Day at Emerson's Bar & Grill" actress Audra McDonald praised Dee as one of the black actresses who made her career possible. 

Director Spike Lee, who cast both Dee and Davis in his movie "Do the Right Thing," took to Instagram, saying, "I'm crushed by this bad news and I know Ruby has already been embraced in a warm loving hug from her life partner ... — Mr. Ossie Davis. It has been one of my great blessings in life to work with two of the finest artist and activist."

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