Stephen Hawking, theoretical physicist and author of A Brief History of Time, passed away in the early hours of the morning on Wednesday 14th March.
"We are deeply saddened that our beloved father passed away today," his children Lucy, Robert and Tim said in a statement.
"He was a great scientist and an extraordinary man whose work and legacy will live on for many years.
"His courage and persistence with his brilliance and humour inspired people across the world.
"He once said, 'It would not be much of a universe if it wasn't home to the people you love.' We will miss him forever."
Stephen has been called a 'medical marvel' after being given just two years to live when he was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in 1963. He went on to live for a further 55 years.
In 2014. actor Eddie Redmayne won an Oscar for his portrayal of the scientist in the film The Theory of Everything, which documented Stephen's life and early career.
Our thoughts are with Stephen's family at this time.