White's assistant, Kiersten Mikelas, took to White's official Facebook page to share the picture.
Betty White would have turned 100 years old on January 17. The Golden Girls actor passed away on the eve of the new year at the age of 99. She is said to have died in her sleep after she suffered a mild stroke on Christmas day. Her sudden demise left friends and fans around the world shocked.
On the occasion of her 100th birthday, White's assistant shared one of the last pictures of her ever taken before her passing. The assistant, Kiersten Mikelas, took to White's official Facebook page to share the picture and said: "On this special day, I wanted to share this photo of Betty. It was taken on 12/20/21. I believe it’s one of the last photos of her. She was radiant and beautiful and as happy as ever. Thanks to all of you who are doing kind things today and every day to make the world a better place." It shows White in a green satin shirt over a green top paired with white pants, sitting on a couch with a broad smile on her face.
Everyone was looking forward to celebrating her centenary birthday. But despite her death, her legacy lives on and the world is paying tribute to the legend in a way she would appreciate. People have been taking up the #BettyWhiteChallenge and calling for everyone to pick a local shelter or rescue and donate at least $5 in her name. Betty was known for her love of animals. As an animal welfare advocate, she has worked with organizations including the Los Angeles Zoo Commission, The Morris Animal Foundation, African Wildlife Foundation, and Actors and Others for Animals.
The comments under the photo shared by her assistant included ones from the beneficiaries. Juno's Place, an animal rescue center commented, "Many have donated to Sweetpea Friends of Rutland Animals in Betty's name. They are in process of a rebuild after a devastating fire. A true no-kill shelter. RIP Betty forever a Golden Girl." Patti Holman Whitaker wrote: "Kiersten, I am a board member of Stephens County Humane Society out of Duncan OK. Wanted you to celebrate that we have received soooo many donations in honor of Betty."
Mikelas acknowledged this gesture from White's fans and, speaking to PEOPLE, said, "She would be so touched to see and hear that people were honoring her by donating to local groups who work so hard to rescue and rehabilitate animals. I can't think of a better tribute." Jeff Witjas, White's agent and a longtime friend added, "The outpouring of love, the amazing amount of donations being given to all types of animal organizations is such a tribute to how Betty lived her life. As Betty would say, 'Thank you from the bottom of my heart.'"
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