American comedy fans were left in mourning this week after learning that stand-up legend Shecky Greene had passed away. 

Marie Musso Greene was married to her famous husband for 41 years, and she confirmed his death to the Las Vegas Review-Journal.

Wife says that late husband "always made humor out of whatever he could"

Mrs. Greene explained that the 97-year-old died at their home at 3:21 a.m. on Sunday morning due to natural causes. There will be no funeral or celebration of life in accordance with his wishes.

When asked about their life together, she responded, "It was fun. He always made humor out of whatever he could. He made you laugh and feel good. It was a happy time."

The newspaper pointed out how in addition to his wife, Greene is survived by his two adopted daughters as well as his sisters-in-law, nephew, and nieces.

Howard Rapp was Greene's longtime manager, and he described Greene in a statement to People magazine as being "a brilliant Comedian."

Manager laments that "many people will miss" Greene's contribution to humor

"He was a brilliant Comedian. He led off for 7 years and came back for his first show at Kutchers Hotel and worked in many large venues again," Rapp continued.

"He loved entertaining again. I spoke to him last week and we had a fun talk and he finished with a song that included my name," he continued before adding, "Many people will miss this talent."

The New York Post noted that Greene was born in Chicago as Fred Sheldon Greenfield on April 8, 1926, in Chicago, Greene served in the Navy during World War II.

After returning home from the war, Greene went to community college and began working as a gym teacher before trying his hand at comedy and eventually becoming a fixture in Las Vegas.

Columnist praises Greene for having been one of the "most brilliant comics ever"

Tributes to Greene were quickly posted online, including from Los Angeles Magazine columnist and Spectrum News contributor Alison Martino.

Farewell Shecky Greene. One of the most brilliant comics ever and a lifelong friend of the family. We’ll be seeing you… pic.twitter.com/ENpXNw4HNm

— Vintage Los Angeles (@alisonmartino) December 31, 2023

"Farewell Shecky Greene," Martino wrote in a post on X, the social media platform previously known as Twitter. She went on to say that he was among the "most brilliant comics ever" and "a lifelong friend of the family."