After suffering from complications while undergoing throat operations Joan Rivers dies at the age of 81.

Earlier today, her daughter Melissa Rivers released the following statement: "It is with great sadness that I announce the death of my mother. She passed peacefully at 1:17pm surrounded by family and close friends. My son and I would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff of Mount Sinai Hospital for the amazing care they provided for my mother. Cooper and I have found ourselves humbled by the outpouring of love, support, and prayers we have received from around the world, she continued. They have been heard and appreciated. My mother's greatest joy in life was to make people laugh. Although that is difficult to do right now, I know her final wish would be that we return to laughing soon," according to E! online.

There was no doubt that Rivers touched the lives of everyone. Her jokes, fearless attitude and her strong personality made Joan an inspirational figure inside and outside of Hollywood.

Celebrities have taken to Instagram to mourn the loss of Rivers. Here's what they have to say.

Audrina Patridge

"Rest in peace @joanrivers... Always making people laugh and not afraid to push the limits. You will be missed."

Ashley Benson

"Joan was such a wonderful woman. Everytime I worked with her she was such a pleasure. One of the funniest people I have ever met. We will all miss you Joan RIP."

Naya Rivera

"A life well lived. My heart goes out to Joan's family, friends, and co workers. Thank you for all the laughs. Rest in peace funny, fearless lady."

Khloe Kardashian

"Rest in peace Joan!! You will be missed!"

Kendall and Kylie Jenner

"rest peacefully."

Candice Accola

"A day I will never forget was meeting one of the GREATS who paved the way for women in comedy. With a wink she settled my nerves,wowed with her work ethic, and made me laugh uncomfortably and uncontrollably all at the same time. What a woman."

Ellen Degeneres

"Joan Rivers will always be a pioneer. She paved the way for a lot of comedians. I’m very sad she’s gone."

Alessandra Ambrosio

"It was a true pleasure to be in the presence of Joan Rivers. Not only was she a comedic genius but a strong woman, entrepreneur, mother and fashion icon. "Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery and today is God's gift that's why we call it the present." -Joan Rivers #ripjoanrivers"

Kate Walsh

"Devastated. What a broad! RIP Joan. U paved the way for so many."

Kris Jenner

"Incredibly heartbroken...we will miss you so much. Amazing Mother, Amazing Grandmother, Amazing Friend. Thank you for a lifetime of laughter. My prayers go out to Melissa and Cooper."

Joan Rivers you were a legend. May you rest in peace.

Top image courtesy: Jennifer Greylock/INFphoto.com

other Images via Instagram Audrina Patdrige , Ashley Benson , Naya Rivera, Khloe Kardashian , Kylie Jenner , Candice Accola , Elle Degeneres , Alessandra Ambrosio , Kate Walsh, Kris Jenner