Singer Della Reese, who moved from pop and jazz singing stardom in the 1950s and 1960s to a long career as a popular TV actress on "Touched by an Angel" and other shows, is dead. She was 86. Reese died on Sunday night at her home in California, reports variety.com.

"She was an incredible wife, mother, grandmother, friend and pastor as well as an award-winning actress and singer. Through her life and work she touched and inspired the lives of millions of people," actress Roma Downey, Reese's co-star said in a statement. Downey added: "She was a mother to me and I had the privilege of working with her side by side for so many years on 'Touched by an Angel.' I know heaven has a brand new angel this day. Della Reese will be forever in our hearts."