Sad news has been traveling around the net this morning that famed author and Atlanta resident, E. Lynn Harris has passed away at the age of 54.  According to The Arkansas Times Harris had been suffering through an undisclosed illness and that his personal assistant had confirmed an unspecified health event:

E. Lynn Harris, the best-selling Arkansas author known for contemporary stories about African-Americans, died today during a West Coast book tour. His personal assistant confirmed an unspecified health event this morning, but said she was awaiting word from the scene before providing specifics.

Harris, a best-seller whose work dealt with black, gay culture and delved into athletics, was a passionate Razorbacks fan. Born in Michigan, Harris grew up in Little Rock, Arkansas. He attended the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville, where he was the school’s first black cheerleader. He continued to be a diehard Razorback fan. He has taught adjunct courses in the English department, most recently last fall.

Harris’ was on a book tour promoting his 11th novel, “Basketball Jones”, which involves an NBA player and the player’s gay lover. Prior to “Basketball Jones,” Harris penned “Just Too Good To Be True,” a novel detailing the life of Heisman Trophy candidate Brady Manning. Harris’ novel focused on the pressures surrounding Manning and the support system the star athlete leaned on to help him through dark and troubling times.

I’m hoping this is a rumor but it doesn’t look good at this point.  I’ll definitely keep you guys updated.

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