Ruby Dee, an acclaimed actor and civil rights activist whose versatile career spanned stage, radio, television and film, has died at age 91, according to her daughter.
Nora Davis Day told the Associated Press on Thursday that her mother died at home in New Rochelle, New York, on Wednesday night. Dee, who frequently acted alongside her husband of 56 years, Ossie Davis, was surrounded by family and friends, Davis added.
Dee won an Obie Award in 1971 for her portrayal of Lena in Athol Fugard’s Boseman and Lena (1970) and a Drama Desk Award for Wedding Band (1974). She was nominated for an Academy Award for her role in Ridley Scott’s 2007 drama American Gangster.
According to her agent Michael Livingston there will be a private service but no date has been decided.