"Easy Rider" actress Karen Black died after a long battle with cancer according to People Magazine.
Black's husband Stephen Eckelberry informed the world of the news through his Facebook page writing:
"It is with great sadness that I have to report that my wife and best friend Karen Black has just passed away, only a few minutes ago. Thank you all for all your prayers and love, they meant so much to her as they did to me."
Black was diagnosed with ampullary cancer in November 2010 when a third of her Pancreas was removed People Magazine reported.
In 2011, Black was free of cancer. However, in March, it seems the cancer returned after a donation page was created to assist in collecting money so Black could travel to Europe for "experimental treatment," People reported, but the trip was abruptly canceled.
According to his Facebook post, Eckelberry said Black was suddenly bed-ridden on Wednesday when the disease spread to her spine and back.
"You look at the scans, they tell you one thing, then you meet Karen, and what you are left with is how amazingly alive she is," he said. "She can't help but take life head-on and be completely engaged in the moment, always interested, always curious, always present."
Black starred in many movies including 1969's "Easy Rider", and "Five Easy Pieces" in 1970 with Jack Nicholson. She also partnered with Nicholson in the 1971 flick, "Drive".
Other movies of hers included "Portnoy's Complaint", "The Great Gatsby", "Airport" and "Family Plot" which was released in 1976 People reported.
The actress was known for her lips and hair which was often seen in an altered color. Black married four times, and leaves behind Eckelberry, a son and daughter.
