Beloved television icon Betty White, known for her roles in shows like The Golden Girls and The Mary Tyler Moore Show, passed away on Friday at the age of 99. However, White had always maintained a fearless outlook on death, inspired by her mother's perspective.

During a 2012 TimesTalks conversation with Frank Bruni, a New York Times columnist, White shared her mother's wise words. Her mother believed that while humans have acquired vast knowledge about the world, the mystery of what happens after death remains unknown. White's mother would often say that when someone dear to them passed away, they now knew the secret, alleviating the fear associated with death.

White embraced this mindset, stating that she had no fear or dread of death. Although she welcomed the idea of staying around as long as possible, she acknowledged death as a natural part of life. In a 2012 interview with Katie Couric on CBS Sunday Morning, White echoed her mother's sentiments, expressing that nobody truly knows what happens in the final moments until they experience it themselves.

During her distinguished career, which included appearances on Hot in Cleveland and roles in films like The Proposal, White remained devoted to her passions outside of acting.

She spent her leisure time in Los Angeles engaging in activities such as solving crossword puzzles, playing card games, and indulging in wildlife documentaries and sports, particularly golf. White was also known for her advocacy efforts in animal welfare, supporting organizations like the Wildlife Learning Center, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and Actors and Others for Animals.

In an interview with PEOPLE before her passing, White expressed gratitude for her good health and positive outlook. She attributed her eternal optimism to her mother, stating that she always found the silver lining in any situation.

The interview was part of a cover story celebrating her upcoming 100th birthday, which she unfortunately did not live to see.

The news of Betty White's passing deeply saddened PEOPLE's editor-in-chief, Dan Wakeford, who honored her extraordinary life and career. White passed away peacefully in her sleep at her home just weeks before turning 100. Her agent and close friend, Jeff Witjas, shared that White had never feared death, as she believed it would reunite her with her beloved late husband, Allen Ludden.

The world mourns the loss of Betty White, a vibrant and optimistic soul who brought joy to countless hearts throughout her legendary career.