UPDATE 11/25/2014 4:01 PM PT: Dark Horse Comics Publisher Mike Richardson has released a statement offering condolences to the Sakai family.

"We are deeply saddened today by the passing of one of comics' dearest friends, Sharon Sakai.

The wife of legendary 'Usagi Yojimbo' artist Stan Sakai, Sharon has been a staple in the comics industry for over thirty years.

Sharon was deeply loved and respected by so many, a beautiful person inside and out.

Recently, 'The Sakai Project,' a book driven by an outpouring of support from the comics community, demonstrated that respect.

All of us at Dark Horse Comics wish to extend our deepest sympathies to Stan and his family."


After a long illness due to a brain tumor, Sharon Sakai, wife of industry veteran and "Usagi Yojimbo" creator Stan Sakai, passed away this morning at home with her family.

Since Sharon Sakai was diagnosed with a brain tumor, the comics community rallied around the family, with the Comic Art Professional Society organizing a fundraiser to help with the Sakai's medical expenses in 2013. In July 2014, Dark Horse Comics released "The Sakai Project," a special book of "Usagi Yojimbo"-inspired art by industry veterans with all proceeds going directly to benefit the Sakais.

Stan Sakai had been updating friends, family and the comics community on Sharon's condition via his Facebook page. Her condition worsened within the last few weeks, and went into hospice care. Stan Sakai told his friends and fans on Facebook that Sharon "died exactly the way she wanted to -- at home, surrounded by her family."

The thoughts and condolences of the entire CBR Staff go out to the Sakai family.