The `Private Benjamin` star - who played Goldie Hawn`s character Judy Benjamin`s tough commanding officer Doreen Lewis in the 1980 movie - passed away at her home in Burbank, California, on Sunday (28.07.13) after losing her battle with bladder cancer.

Her family said in a statement: "Our family is so grateful for the outpouring of love and respect for Eileen. She was funny and caring and truly one of a kind. Her strength and love will never be forgotten."

Goldie took to Twitter to pay tribute to the late Hollywood icon, insisting the `Jeepers Creepers` star was the funniest actress she ever worked with.

She wrote: "We have lost my old friend Eileen Brennan. No one ever made me laugh more! Now I cry. Please keep singing darling from on high. Rest (sic)"

Brennan earned a Best Supporting Actress Oscar nomination for her role in `Private Benjamin` and won an Emmy for reprising the part in the TV version of the movie.

She also received Emmy nominations for her guest roles in TV series including `Will & Grace` - in which she portrayed Zandra - as well as `Taxi`, `Newhart` and baby boomers show `Thirtysomething`.
sections: Celebrities