The greatest living mind in the world universe of science has died.

Renowned theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking died today at the incredible age of 76 in Cambridge, England. And his long life was incredible because he was not given much time to live following an unlikely diagnosis in his early 20s with a rare form of motor neurone disease. This restricted Mr. Hawking to a wheelchair and a devastating, paralyzing state. Despite these immense challenges, Professor Hawking was a towering figure in the scientific community, as well as in the world of pop-culture. Perhaps it was the latter that enlightened young minds who wouldn’t have come across the literary classic (for advanced minds) A Brief History of Time on their own volition to study and appreciate the profound work and insights of the man, who some have said, was the smartest person since Albert Einstein.

As someone who appreciates the visionary insights and contributions of Professor Hawking, what impresses me in equal measure was how he lived all these years with a tragic disease. The kind of pain he experienced is unimaginable. And yet, he lived with an inspiring spirit and an infinitely curious mind.

He also had a wonderful sense of humor.

Truly the greatest guest star in the history of The Big Bang Theory.  

RIP Stephen Hawking.