Kelly Rizzo and Norman Lear in December 2023.Photo:Kelly Rizzo/ Instagram

Kelly Rizzo and Norman Lear

Kelly Rizzo/ Instagram

Kelly Rizzois looking back on her final interactions withNorman Learin the days before he died.

The award-winning American television writer, film producer and activistdied at the age of 101on Tuesday, his reps confirmed in a statement.

“It was their monthly activity and I was the first ‘gal’ who ever have the honor of attending, in Bob’s place of course,” the Eat Travel Rock founderwrote in the caption. “I felt so fortunate to be able to be with Norman’s closest friends just a couple days ago and share amazing stories of him and Bob. Treasured lifetime memories.”

In her tribute, Rizzo honored Lear as a “legend, pioneer, veteran, groundbreaker, artist, entertainer, wise sage, freedom fighter and storyteller” who was also “kind, loving, thoughtful, and dedicated friend.”

Rizzo also thanked Lear for “always being there” since Saget’s death, adding that their visits and his phone calls and voicemails will be “cherished forever.”

“What a profoundly brilliant and full life you got to lead, and you truly changed the world,” she said. “Love you always, Norman. (And love you so very much,Lyn)”

Bob Saget and Kelly Rizzo in December 2021.Leon Bennett/Getty Images

Kelly Rizzo and Bob Saget attend the red carpet premiere and party for Peacock’s new comedy series “MacGruber”

Leon Bennett/Getty Images

Lear died on Tuesday at his home in Los Angeles of natural causes, according to a release from his representatives. His family has also requested privacy at this time, and will hold a private service for immediate relatives, they said.

“Norman lived a life in awe of the world around him. He marveled at his cup of coffee every morning, the shape of the tree outside his window, and the sounds of beautiful music. But it was people—those he just met and those he knew for decades—who kept his mind and heart forever young,” the caption read. “As we celebrate his legacy and reflect on the next chapter of life without him, we would like to thank everyone for all the love and support.”

Norman Lear and wife Lyn Lear.Jason Merritt/Getty

Norman Lear (L) and co-founder and member of the Board of the Environmental Media Association Lyn Lear attend the 2015 Sundance Institute Celebration Benefit at 3LABS on June 2, 2015 in Culver City, California

Never miss a story — sign up forPEOPLE’s free daily newsletterto stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

source: people.com