'Touched By Angel' star and singer, Della Reese dies aged 86

Della Reese, the actress and singer famous for her role as Tess - the wise angel in television drama 'Touched by an Angel' passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, at her California home on Sunday. A statement released on the family's behalf by Reese's co-star Roma Downey read;

"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. 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," Downey told E! News Monday. "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."

Reese is survived by her husband, Franklin Lett, and three children.