The world lost a fearless leader when the iconic civil rights activist/comedian, Dick Gregory, passed away on August 19, 2017. He was 84 years young and millions of people have mourned his death. One of those people is his good friend, Bill Cosby.

Cosby and Gregory go way back in the brotherhood of comedy. In recent years, Gregory has oftentimes spoken out about the sexual assault allegations against Cosby. He’s publicly stated, “I know it’s a trick,” in regards to the many women who suddenly surfaced with sex assault claims, in which most of them claimed happened decades ago.

Niece Tells What Cosby Did While Gregory was Dying

What many don’t know, is that on August 19th, Cosby was talking to Gregory as he was dying. Gregory’s niece, Trish Gregory, revealed that Cosby spent time with Gregory by phone, telling him jokes. He was trying to make Mr. Gregory’s last days on earth be as enjoyable and peaceful as possible, in a way that he knew Gregory would love.

After Dick Gregory died, Cosby paid homage to him on social media with several touching messages. His first tribute read:

Bill Cosby: His comedy showed his education, intelligence, and was inclusive of humanitarianism along with great timing.The man went off the stage into the arena of Civil Rights worldwide facing his enemies.He was FEARLESS. Rest in Power Dick Gregory

After seeing Cosby’s Facebook tribute to her uncle, Trish Gregory left a comment for Cosby, thanking him for helping her uncle transition:

Trish Gregory: Thank you Bill Cosby for calling, speaking and joking with my uncle Dick Gregory on the day of his transition. I envisioned the smile on my grandmother’s face as he entered the pearly gates. 😊

Dick Gregory’s funeral service was held on September 21st, and live streamed on TV One and on Roland Martin’s Facebook page. It was a beautiful service, attended many icons and thousands of fans. Cosby was photographed at the funeral, talking to Minister Louis Farrakhan, which he also shared online in another tribute to his friend, Gregory…

https://www.facebook.com/billcosby/photos/a.10150394441499930.383685.103114564929/10155328799719930/?type=3

Gregory’s Son Corrected A Rumor About His Dad’s Death At Funeral

During the funeral, one of Gregory’s 10 children, Christian Gregory, took the stage to clear up one widely reported inaccuracy that stated his father died from heart failure:

Christian Gregory: “It wasn’t his heart. His blood vessels were damaged from starving himself to bring attention to what was going on in the world. […] We thank him for a life of sacrifice. We acknowledge the suffering and glory.”

Incredible…even up to his last breathe, Dick Gregory was fighting for human rights and equality among all.