REST IN PEACE: Robin Williams (1951-2014)

This is one of the hardest headlines I have ever had to write. The world has lost one of the funniest and most talented souls to ever walk its surface, and I am fighting back tears with each key stroke.

News is breaking this evening that legendary comedian and silver screen icon Robin Williams was found dead earlier today, August 11. He was 63.

Williams’ publicist confirmed the news to members of the press in a statement released this afternoon. There are rumors the actor took his own life, but the statement does not clarify what caused his death. It reads:

On August 11, 2014, at approximately 11:55 a.m, Marin County Communications received a 9-1-1 telephone call reporting a male adult had been located unconscious and not breathing inside his residence in unincorporated Tiburon, CA. The Sheriff’s Office, as well as the Tiburon Fire Department and Southern Marin Fire Protection District were dispatched to the incident with emergency personnel arriving on scene at 12:00 pm. The male subject, pronounced deceased at 12:02 pm has been identified as Robin McLaurin Williams, a 63-year-old resident of unincorporated Tiburon, CA.

An investigation into the cause, manner, and circumstances of the death is currently underway by the Investigations and Coroner Division s of the Sheriff’s Office. Preliminary information developed during the investigation indicates Mr. Williams was last seen alive at his residence, where he resides with his wife, at approximately 10:00 pm on August 10, 2014. Mr. Williams was located this morning shortly before the 9-1-1 call was placed to Marin County Communications. At this time, the Sheriff’s Office Coroner Division suspects the death to be a suicide due to asphyxia, but a comprehensive investigation must be completed before a final determination is made. A forensic examination is currently scheduled for August 12, 2014 with subsequent toxicology testing to be conducted.

Williams’ publicist Mara Buxbaum told The Hollywood Reporter: “Robin Williams passed away this morning. He has been battling severe depression of late. This is a tragic and sudden loss. The family respectfully asks for their privacy as they grieve during this very difficult time.”

His wife, Susan Schneider, said: “This morning, I lost my husband and my best friend, while the world lost one of its most beloved artists and beautiful human beings. I am utterly heartbroken. On behalf of Robin’s family, we are asking for privacy during our time of profound grief. As he is remembered, it is our hope the focus will not be on Robin’s death, but on the countless moments of joy and laughter he gave to millions.”

I don’t even know where to begin writing about Robin Williams, so for now I will open the floor to readers who feel a desire to share their memories of Williams and his impact on their life. Please comment below and help us remember this amazing human.

James Shotwell
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6 Responses to “REST IN PEACE: Robin Williams (1951-2014)”

  1. HaulixJames says:

    I think my first experience with Robin Williams was either Aladdin or Mrs. Doubtfire. Either way, I was a fan until the end.

  2. Derek - UTG Review says:

    Jack, Hook, so many timeless films that taught me actual life lessons. This particularly saddens me because there was something about Robin Williams that just comforted me. There aren’t a lot of actors who I can “trust” like that anymore.

  3. HopeAlways says:

    Robin Williams was an actor, brillianty comedic and I have enjoyed him funny and serious!
    Rest in peace Robin! This really is tragic, gave and gave, I am heartbroken!

  4. Kriston McConnell says:

    This seriously bums me out.

  5. Shelly Carroll Hart says:

    my favorite movie. What dreams may come. His wife committed suicide after the death of their children and he said no one should go to hell because of a suicide after going through so much grief and he went to hell to get her and was willing to stay there just to be with her. Odd coincidence. My favorite actor. Godspeed and may Christ console him with peace in his arms. Depression leading to suicide cannot be punishable in my mind. I hope he is now out of his dark place and feeling the warmth of sunshine and smiles around him.

  6. Lois Drown says:

    that was my favorite too,,, but i have yet to hear anything on the news about this movie,,,,he will be missed,,,,