Natalie Babbitt, author, illustrator "Tuck Everlasting" dies at age 84

HAMDEN, Conn. -- The author of the beloved children's novel "Tuck Everlasting" has died in Connecticut after battling lung cancer. Natalie Babbitt was 84 years old.

Babbitt was an author and illustrator. Her husband, Samuel Fisher Babbitt, says she died at home in Hamden on Monday.

He says she had been recently diagnosed with lung cancer. He describes her as a "remarkable" and "loving and wonderful" woman who left her mark in the world with her writing.

Babbitt wrote and illustrated dozens of books but was perhaps best known for "Tuck Everlasting." The 1975 novel explores the concept of immortality and has been adapted as two movies and a Broadway play.

Babbitt had three grown children and three grandchildren. Funeral arrangements are being finalized.