The 71-year-old star was diagnosed with colon cancer shortly before his death.

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Alley's grown children, William True Stevenson & Lillie Stevenson, revealed on Monday that their mother recently underwent treatment at the Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida. 

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"We are saddened to inform you that our amazing, wonderful and loving mother has passed away after a recent diagnosis of cancer," their statement read. 

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“She was surrounded by his closest family members and fought with great strength, leaving us to be sure of his never-ending enthusiasm for life and whatever sport came his way. 

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As iconic as she was on screen, she was an incredible mother and grandmother. 

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They added: "Our mother's joy and passion for life, her children, her grandchildren and her many animals, not to mention her undying joy in creating, is unparalleled and inspires us to live life to the fullest as she did. 

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Alley has been one of Scientology's most famous celebrities since arriving in 1979 after claiming that its drug rehabilitation program helped him kick his cocaine addiction.

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Alley is also known for her roles in the films Drop Dead Gorgeous, It Takes Two and Look Who's Talking. John Travolta, who was close to the actress when he directed the 1989 film and its two sequels, also spoke on Monday. 

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"Kerstie is one of the most special relationships I've ever had. I love you Kirstie," he wrote via Instagram. "I know we will meet again.

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