The world loses another Christian actor - Bill Paxton dead at 61

'It is with heavy hearts we share the news that Bill Paxton has passed away...'

Bill Paxton, known for his roles in "Twister," "Aliens," and "Apollo 13" passed away on February 25, 2017.

LOS ANGELES, CA (Catholic Online) - The beloved actor, known for his iconic roles as the optimistic, hard-working protagonist, underwent heart surgery that ended in fatal complications.

According to TMZ, which was the first news outlet to break the news, Paxton suffered a stroke following complications during his post-operation recovery.

A family representative announced: "It is with heavy hearts we share the news that Bill Paxton has passed away due to complications from surgery. A loving husband and father, Bill began his career in Hollywood working on films in the art department and went on to have an illustrious career spanning four decades as a beloved and prolific actor and filmmaker.

"Bill's passion for the arts was felt by all who knew him, and his warmth and tireless energy were undeniable. We ask to please respect the family's wish for privacy as they mourn the loss of their adored husband and father."

In an interview with Eric Spitznagel in 2010, Paxton described his Catholic upbringing, saying: "My mother was Roman-Catholic, and my dad professed to be a pagan, although I think he was loosely brought up as a Presbyterian in Kansas City.

"I remember when I was ten years old, every Sunday my mother would take me and my brothers and sister to church, and my father would be naked on a chase lounge in the back yard, reading the latest Ian Fleming novel. My father didn't object to us going to church, but he did make it an ongoing conversation.

"...I was raised Catholic, and when we take communion, the wafer is a symbol of the body and blood of Christ."

Beyond his Catholic background, Paxton was a businessman, director and an award-winning actor for several prolific roles. His final major film role was "The Circle," also starring Emma Watson and Tom Hanks, which is currently in post-production.

His death impacted fans and celebrities alike, with thousands taking to Twitter to share in their grief and remembrances.

"RIP #BillPaxton, the only guy to be killed by a Predator, Alien & Terminator," user Humayun Mir wrote.

Larry King wrote: "Very shocked and saddened by the passing of #BillPaxton. Interviewed him several times. A class act. One of the best in the business."

Bette Midlet added: "So profoundly sorry to hear that #BillPaxton has died. My family & I were such fans; we send our condolences and deepest sympathy to his."

Hundreds of others simply wrote, "RIP #BillPaxton" with images of Paxton in their favorite films, some of whom claimed, "He'll always be #WeirdScience to me!"

Goodbye Bill Paxton. Thank you for your amazing films.

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