black people move forward in society. oprah winfrey posted she was numbed and in shock, calling jacqueline avant the classiest, kindest, and most calming presence. quincy jones tweeted, the heaviness of hmy heart today is unlike any other that i have experienced in my life. former president bill clinton called her a wonderful woman and said, she inspired admiration, respect and affection in everyone who knew her. we are heartbroken. she will be deeply missed. their friends tell us her husband, clarence, was in such shock, he was unable to speak. mr. avant is essentially at home speechless. this has shook his core along with the family. reporter: jacqueline avant killed at 81. police say a suspected burglar and felon took the most precious thing of all, life itself. sara sidner, cnn, los angeles. thank you, sara. thank you for watching, everyone. our coverage continues.