After news broke of trailblazing comedian, writer and actor Paul Mooney's death, fans took to social media to send their condolences and share anecdotes of the 79-year-old legendary icon. 

According to journalist and talk show host Roland Martin, who received word of Mooney's death from one of his family members, the comedian passed away on Wednesday morning at his home in Oakland, California.

Mooney's family also expressed their appreciation for the fans who have shown an outpouring of love following his death. 

The 79-year-old had an extensive repertoire, most famous for being a writer for the late comedian Richard Pryor, and for playing the role of Sam Cooke in the 1978 film The Buddy Holly Story.

He also rose to prominence as the writer for shows like Sanford and Sons and Good Times. In addition, the Louisiana native briefly wrote for the sketch comedy series In Living Color.

In a 2016 interview with Vulture, director and producer who worked with Mooney, Robert Townsend spoke of his tenacity and influence on upcoming comedians.

“Paul didn’t care to be loved. He wanted to speak his mind,” he said. “He taught a generation of comedians to be fearless.”