So Long, Sally

The soap world has lost one of the most vibrant and exuberant characters in recent history.

Actress Darlene Conley, who played the flamboyant Sally Spectra on daytime's "The Bold and the Beautiful" died of stomach cancer on Sunday. At the time of her death, she was surrounded by friends and family in her Loas Angeles home.

Conley started on the CBS soap in 1988 and played her for nearly 20 years. A fan favorite, Conley was previously nominated for two Daytime Emmys and several Soap Opera Digest awards. Throughout her career, the Chicago native acted on the stage, film and television. Conley's greatest success came in the world of daytime. She began her soap opera career in the 1970's with roles on "Days of OUr Lives," "General Hospital" and Young and the Restless" before joining "The Bold and the Beautiful." It is unknown how or when Conley's death will be addressed on the show.

Darlene Conley is survived by her son and two sisters. She was 72.