The Walking Dead actress Kelley Mack has died aged 33 after being diagnosed with cancer.

The American star’s death was confirmed on her own social media pages this week, with her family sharing the following statement: ‘It is with indelible sadness that we are announcing the passing of our dear Kelley. Such a bright, fervent light has transitioned to the beyond, where we all eventually must go.

‘Kelley passed peacefully on Saturday evening with her loving mother Kristen and steadfast aunt Karen present. Kelley has already come to many of her loved ones in the form of various butterflies. She will be missed by so many to depths that words cannot express.’

The family went on to share a link to a ‘two-page formal announcement with information on her upcoming life celebration’ – which will be held in Ohio next week.

They concluded the announcement, which included a single photo of Mack, by writing: ‘She would want you all to know how much she loves you. And as her sister, I want you all to know how brave that tough SOB was, especially when she decided to make the leap to be reunited with God. I’m so proud of her.’

The actress, born Kelley Klebenow was from Cincinnati, Ohio, and died on August 2 after being diagnosed with glioma of the central nervous system.