Comedian Joan Rivers Dies At 81

“Can we talk?”

From the artificially plumped lips of Joan Rivers, it was an invitation, even a provocation, to join her on the uncensored comedic romps that made her one of the most popular and transgressive comedians of her era.

Decades before Comedy Central aired the rants of Sarah Silverman, and at a time when much of society considered comedy unbecoming of a lady, Ms. Rivers was telling jokes about her erogenous zones and sex life.

“On our wedding night,” she quipped, “my husband said, ‘Can I help you with the buttons?’ I was naked at the time.”

Sadly, she passed on at the ripe age of 81, after being hospitalized for injuries that occurred during a routine throat surgery.

Her death was announced by her daughter Melisa:

   

  "It is with great sadness that I announce the death of my mother, Joan Rivers. She passed peacefully at 1:17 PM 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.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.

May her soul rest in peace. Amen