For decades, Ruth Buzzi was known for making audiences chuckle by portraying off-beat characters in sketch comedy routines.

However, fans of the legendary comedian and actress were crushed this past week to learn that Buzzi had died. 

Buzzi passed away at her Texas home at the age of 88

According to NPR, Buzzi's passing was announced on Friday in a post on her official Facebook page. It noted that the 88-year-old died at her Texas home following a battle with Alzheimer's disease.

Her family requested that instead of sending flowers, mourners should fund research by making contributions to the Alzheimer's Association.

NPR noted that Buzzi's career spanned roughly sixty years and brought her five Emmy Award nominations along with a Golden Globe win.

She was best known for playing Gladys Ormphby, a dour character clad in "hair net-encased bun and shapeless brown clothes" who became "something of a feminist icon."

Fans post tributes to Buzzi

The revelation that Buzzi had died was met with condolences from Facebook users, with one person writing, "Sad to hear. I am grateful for all the laughs she brought to my childhood from laugh in to the lost saucer.

"She was a great comedian with an [amazing] smile," the Facebook user continued. "She will be missed. I am glad she enjoyed her [F]acebook page so that she realized how much joy she brought to the world. RIP."

Additional tributes to Buzzi also appeared on other social media platforms, including from veteran musician Nancy Sinatra, who hailed her as "a comedic genius."

Buzzi appeared on a number of television programs, such as "Sesame Street" and "The Tonight Show" along with movies "The Being" and "Freaky Friday."

Nancy Sinatra "heartbroken" over Buzzi's death

Sinatra recalled performing on the NBC show "Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In" alongside Buzzi as well as Teresa Graves, and Joanne Worley.

Ruth Buzzi (@Ruth_A_Buzzi) was a comedic genius. Working alongside her on Laugh-In was the most fun I ever had working. I treasured her friendship and I am heartbroken to wake up to the news that she is gone. I love you, Ruthie. Godspeed, old friend. Sending condolences to her… pic.twitter.com/VSXHYqMHMD

— Nancy Sinatra (@NancySinatra) May 2, 2025

The singer described her experience as "the most fun I ever had working" before adding that she treasured Buzzi's "friendship and I am heartbroken to wake up to the news that she is gone."

Sinatra concluded by saying, "I love you, Ruthie. Godspeed, old friend. Sending condolences to her husband Kent and to all who loved her."