Celebrity tribute to late transgender activist Alexis Arquette

Hollywood paid tribute on Monday to pioneering transgender activist and actress Alexis Arquette, who died Sunday at age 47 surrounded by family.

Arquette -- part of an acting dynasty -- was with siblings Patricia, David, Rosanna and Richmond who sang her David Bowie's "Starman" and washed her body in rose petals, they said in a joint statement.

"Her career was cut short, not by her passing, but by her decision to live her truth and her life as a transgender woman," they said.

"Despite the fact that there are few parts for trans actors, she refused to play roles that were demeaning or stereotypical. She was a vanguard in the fight for understanding and acceptance for all trans people."

They did not reveal the cause of death but said their sister "passed away surrounded by love."

Arquette -- born Robert -- came from a long line of entertainers starting with 19th century vaudevillian Charles Augustus Arquette.

Her father Lewis Arquette played JD Pickett on the TV series "The Waltons" while her grandfather, comedian Cliff Arquette, was famous for his television character Charley Weaver.

Her brothers and sisters have more than 200 acting credits in feature films between them, with a joint box office of around $2 billion.

Alexis herself had parts in more than 50 movies, most notably "Last Exit to Brooklyn," "Pulp Fiction," "Of Mice and Men," "The Wedding Singer" and "The Bride of Chucky."

"As Alexis transitioned into being a woman, she taught us tolerance and acceptance. As she moved through her process, she became our sister, teaching us what real love is," the family statement said.

David tweeted that his sister was a "hero for eternity" while his ex-wife, "Friends" actress Courteney Cox, said "My heart goes out to anyone who was lucky enough to know Alexis. We will love and miss you forever."

There were also tributes from comedian Roseanne Barr, musician Boy George, "Flashdance" lead Jennifer Beals, "Daredevil" actress Rosario Dawson, and soap star "Alyssa Milano."

Lucy Lawless, who was "Xena: Warrior Princess," described Arquette as a "darling friend" while "Breaking Bad" actor RJ Mitte, who has cerebral palsy, praised her for "bringing diversity into the media."