On Tuesday, the iconic fashion designer and business mogul Kate Spade was found dead of apparent suicide in her New York apartment.

Beside the cause of death and the fact that she left a note behind, not many details about the death of the businesswoman, wife and mother were released because police are conducting an investigation.

Kate, 55, was revered by those who knew her not only because of her talent and creativity, but because she had a vibrant and bright personality, which only added to the sense of shock her fans, friends, colleagues, and family members felt upon hearing about her tragic death.

Shortly after the news broke, her family released a statement addressing their loss and asking for privacy.

"We are all devastated by today's tragedy," read the statement. "We loved Kate dearly and will miss her terribly. We would ask that our privacy be respected as we grieve during this very difficult time."

Her namesake company also shared a statement on Twitter, confirming their founder's unexpected passing.

"Kate Spade, the visionary founder of our brand, has passed. Our thoughts are with her family at this incredibly heartbreaking time. We honor all the beauty she brought into this world."

Kate's brother-in-law, actor and comedian David Spade, was the first family member to break his silence by sharing a heartfelt post on Instagram.

"Fuzzy picture but i love it," he wrote in the caption. "Kate and I during Christmas family photos. We had so much fun that day. She was so sharp and quick on her feet. She could make me laugh so hard. I still cant believe it. Its a rough world out there people, try to hang on."

On Twitter, he shared another photo of Kate at his book signing.

"Katy at my book signing. I love this pic of her," David tweeted. "So pretty. I don't think everyone knew how f***ing funny she was...  Its a rough world out there people. Try to hang on."

David's fellow celebrities and fashion insiders were also quick to take to social media to mourn Kate and offer their condolences.

Actress Bette Midler tweeted: "#KateSpade, whose lively, colorful, and yes, joyous designs has died. My deepest sympathy to her family and friends, and her many fans around the world, who loved the wonderful illusions she created.  I am stunned."

"My grandmother gave me my first Kate Spade bag when I was in college. I still have it. Holding Kate's family, friends and loved ones in my heart," wrote former first daughter Chelsea Clinton.

Another former first daughter and current TV host Jenna Bush Hagar also reminisced about her first Kate Spade bag and described the designer as "a trailblazer."

"I will never forget the first Kate Spade bag I got for Christmas in college. She was a trailblazer. Her life and death are a reminder that pain doesn't discriminate. Sending love to her family."

Kate's fellow designer and chairman of the Council of Fashion Designers of America, Diane von furstenberg also had a few words to say.

What Not To Wear alum Stacy London called Kate's death "a loss for the industry" and reminded people that there's a hotline to call if they have "suicidal thoughts."

"Just landed in NYC to the news of Kate Spade. What a loss for us. What a loss for the industry. If you or someone you know has suicidal thoughts, please call 1 800 273 TALK or TEXT 741741"

Girls star Lena Dunham chimed in by thanking the late designer for her "quirky visual language that captivated Bat Mitzvah girls and artists alike."

She added, "She was also a staple of NYC who spread good will. My heart breaks for her family. Thank you, Kate, from one of the millions you made feel beautiful."

Many more celebrities, including actress Reese Witherspoon, also had messages to share:

Neva Hall, executive vice president for Neiman Marcus Stores, as well as the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention also released statements in the wake of the tragedy.

In a 2002 interview with Glamour magazine, Kate said: "I hope that people remember me not just as a good businesswoman, but as a great friend "” and a heck of a lot of fun."

Judging by all the messages that have flooded social media since her death, I think it's safe to say that not only was Kate a great businesswoman, but also a wonderful friend who was loved by many.

She will be truly missed. May she rest in peace.