Another figure in the entertainment world has sadly passed away today as comedian Patrice O'Neal has succumbed to a diabetes related illness.

O'Neal suffered a stroke on October 19 that was related to his diabetes and unfortunately wasn't able to recover.

"Many of us have lost a close and loved friend; all of us have lost a true comic genius," O'Neal's agent says in a statement. "His mother, who was also his best friend, was at his side."

He was a Boston native who performed in a variety of comedy specials and appeared on late night talk shows as well as hits like "The Office", was also on hand to poke fun at Charlie Sheen in Comedy Central's "Roast" of the actor in September.

Comedy Central and Sheen joined in the chorus of mournful tweets Tuesday. The network posted, "RIP Patrice - we'll miss you," while Sheen wrote that "The entertainment world as well as the world at large lost a brilliant man today. Patrice had that rare 'light' around him and inside of him. I only knew him for the few days leading up the Roast. Yet I will forever be inspired by his nobility, his grace and his epic talent. my tears today are for the tremendous loss to his true friends and loving family."

In addition to his mother, the heralded comic is also survived by his wife, step-daughter and sister.

"The family wishes to thank all of the fans and friends who have expressed an outpouring of love and support for Patrice these past weeks," the statement from O'Neal's agent continues. "We ask that you please respect the family’s request for privacy at this difficult time."

Source