Gary Coleman's Wife, Co-Stars React To His Death

“We are very grateful for all of the wonderful support everyone has extended to Gary’s family. Thousands of emails have poured into the hospital. This has been so comforting to the family to know how beloved he still is.”

Shannon was by Gary’s beside when he died. They have been married since 2007.

Shawn also said funeral arrangements and information surrounding Gary’s passing will be released shortly. And Shawn said:  “Thank you so much for all that you have done and your support and prayers you all have given us.”

Celebrities who co-starred with Gary on the hit TV show Diff’rent Strokes are reacting with sadness.

Charlotte Rae, who played Mrs. Garrett, told RadarOnline.com ”I was with him the first year of Diff’rent Strokes and he was the reason we were such a big hit. He was the centerpiece and we all surrounded him. He was absolutely enchanting, adorable, funny and filled with joy which he spread around to millions of people all over the world"

Andrew Dice Clay, who played Crazy Larry on a couple of episodes, told RadarOnline.com exclusively: “I worked with Gary on Diff’rent Strokes, and he was funnier and more professional as a kid than most adult stars. I feel sad for his passing and I wish his family my condolences.”

Gary’s manager, John Alcantar, released this statement to RadarOnline.com “Thanks to everyone for their well wishing and support during this tragic time. Now that Gary has passed, we know he will be missed because of all the love and support shown in the past couple of days. Gary is now at peace and his memory will be kept in the hearts of those who were entertained by him throughout the years.”