Lj Smith, the author of the bestselling young adult fiction "The Vampire Diaries," has died at age 66. Smith's popular vampire book series was turned into a hit television show of the same name on the CW Network and lasted for eight seasons. The New York Times reported that the author died on March 8, in Walnut Creek, California, after dealing with the effects of a rare autoimmune disease for a decade. On her website, a heartfelt message can be seen remembering the "kind and gentle soul" that became a pioneer in supernatural fiction.

The statement reads, "Lisa was a kind and gentle soul, whose brilliance, creativity, resilience and empathy illuminated the lives of her family, friends and fans alike. She will be remembered for her imaginative spirit, her pioneering role in supernatural fiction, and her generosity, warmth and heart, both on and off the page." Born Lisa Jane Smith on September...