httpss://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uSKO30spj20
The Arquette family is thanking sister Alexis for teaching the world about acceptance for transgender people following her death Sunday morning at age 47.
Alexis, a transgender actress, died just after midnight surrounded by her family, including siblings Patricia, David, Rosanna, and Richmond, PEOPLE has confirmed.
They remembered their sister in a statement shared with PEOPLE. “Our sister, Alexis Arquette, passed away this morning, September 11th, 2016,” they said.
“Alexis was born as Robert, our brother. We loved him the moment he arrived. But he came in as more than a sibling – he came as our great teacher. As Alexis transitioned into being a woman, she taught us tolerance and acceptance. As she moved through her process, she became our sister, teaching us what real love is.”
“Alexis always had to do everything first. She left before we were ready to let her go. We are all heartbroken that she is no longer with us, but we are grateful for the grace and kindness we were all shown during this difficult time. We are comforted by the fact that Alexis came into our family and was our brother and then our sister, and that she gave us so much love. We will love you always, Alexis. We know we were the lucky ones.”
“The family asks that in lieu of flowers or gifts, donations please be sent to organizations that support the LGBTQ community in honor of Alexis Arquette. Please respect our privacy during this time of grieving.”
They also shared their remembrances of Alexis on social media, with David and Patricia posting about her on Twitter.