On Friday, news of Betty White’s passing reached the White House, and President Joe Biden paid tribute to the actress with a heartfelt statement. Biden, 79, expressed on Twitter, "Betty White brought smiles to the faces of generations of Americans. She was a cultural icon who will be deeply missed. Jill and I are thinking of her family and all those who loved her on this New Year's Eve."

According to Newsweek, reporters notified Joe of White's death, and he fondly remembered her as a "lovely lady." "Ninety-nine years old," he remarked. "As my mother would say, God loved her. Incredible."

Adding to the sentiment, Jill chimed in, "Who didn't love Betty White? We are incredibly saddened by her passing," as reported by the outlet.

White's agent and close friend, Jeff Witjas, informed PEOPLE that she "died peacefully in her sleep at her home early this morning." The beloved star of The Golden Girls was eagerly preparing to celebrate her 100th birthday on January 17. In a cover story with PEOPLE, White candidly shared her feelings about reaching the incredible milestone of turning 100 years old.

The Bidens were among the numerous luminaries who honored the iconic actress on Friday. Former First Lady Michelle Obama took to Instagram to share her own memory of Betty White, praising her as a trailblazer, animal rights activist, and someone who brought laughter into our lives.

Obama wrote, "There was no one quite like her, and Barack and I join so many who will miss the joy she brought to the world. I know our Bo is looking forward to seeing her up in heaven," referencing the family's dearly departed dog, who passed away earlier in 2021.

Former White House photographer Pete Souza also paid tribute to White. He shared a photo of the actress, bringing laughter to former President Barack Obama in the Oval Office and accompanied it with the words, "She made us laugh. All of us. RIP Betty White."