Richard Gere Reflects On Garry Marshall's Life and Legacy: He Was 'One of the Funniest Men Who Ever Lived'

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In the wake of Garry Marshall's death on Tuesday at the age of 81, some of Hollywood's biggest celebs paid tribute to the iconic director -- including Pretty Woman star Richard Gere.

The 66-year-old actor, who starred opposite Julia Roberts in Marshall's 1990 romantic comedy classic, reflected on the filmmaker's illustrious life and career in a statement shared with ET.

WATCH: Garry Marshall Dies at 81: Stars Share Touching Tributes to Celebrated Director

"Garry of course was one of those truly important people one is blessed to meet in one's lifetime," Gere said. "Besides being the pulse and life force of Pretty Woman -- a steady helmsman on a ship that could have easily capsized -- he was a super fine and decent man, husband and father who brought real joy and love and infectious good spirits to everything and everyone he crossed paths with."

"Everyone loved Garry," the Golden Globe winner continued. "He was a mentor and a cheerleader and one of the funniest men who ever lived. He had a heart of the purest gold and a soul full of mischief. He was Garry."

WATCH: 'Pretty Woman' Turns 25! Go Behind the Scenes

Marshall died on Tuesday due to complications from pneumonia, and many of his friends and colleagues have taken to social media to share their love and appreciation. Check out the video below to see some of the most touching tributes.