Eddie Murphy's sister-in-law Tisha Taylor Murphy has died at the age of 44. Tisha, who was married to the Hollywood star's brother Charlie, passed away on Sunday at her home in New Jersey following a two-year battle with cancer.

Actor/comedian Charlie Murphy, best known for his role in TV series Chappelle's Show, married Tisha in 1997 and fathered two children with her.

Charlie Murphy's publicist confirmed the sad news in a statement to MTV.com: "Tisha Taylor Murphy, wife of comedian and actor Charlie Murphy, passed away peacefully on Sunday with family at her side after facing the challenges of cancer for the past two years. The Murphy family appreciates all of the support they have received from friends and fans and requests privacy during this very difficult time."

Actor/rapper Ice-T has led tributes to Tisha, passing on his sympathies to her husband in a post on his Twitter.com page. He writes, "My sincere condolences go out my man Charlie Murphy... Just heard he lost his wife to cancer."

Tisha Taylor Murphy is survived by her husband and their two children, daughter Eva and son Xavier.

Image © BET Networks

(This news article provided by World Entertainment News Network)