American author and feminist, Gloria Jean Watkins, known by her author name bell hooks, has passed away. She died on Wednesday, December 15, 2021, at the age of 69.
The news of her death was broken by her niece Ebony Motley via Twitter on Wednesday.
“The family of @bellhooks is sad to announce the passing of our sister, aunt, great aunt and great great aunt. The author, professor, critic and feminist made her transition early this am from her home, surrounded by family and friends,” Ebony Motley tweeted.
bell hooks’ family later released a statement announcing her passing.
“The family of Gloria Jean Watkins is deeply saddened at the passing of our beloved sister on December 15, 2021. The family honored her request to transition at home with family and friends by her side,” the statement said.
bell hooks death: What killed bell hooks?
The cause of bell hooks’ death is kidney failure. She died at her home in Berea, Kentucky.
Who is bell hooks?
Gloria was a native of Hopkinsville, Kentucky. Born September 25, 1952, to Veodis and RosaBell Watkins, she was the fourth of 7 siblings. In 1978, she published her first book of poems, “And There We Wept,” under the pen name bell hooks, honoring our great-grandmother.
Her written works include some 40 books that are now published in 15 different languages making her an international favorite loved by many.
The family is honored that Gloria received numerous awards, honors, and international fame for her works as poet, author, feminist, professor, cultural critic, and social activist. We are proud to just call her sister, friend, confidant, and influencer.
