Management Guru Stephen Covey Dies At 79

Celebrated author and well known motivational speaker Stephen Covey died Monday owing to complications stemming from a bicycle accident that occurred in April.

Seventy-nine-year old Covey, who helped millions of readers to change their lives with the best-seller, 'The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People', met with a bicycle accident in April. After the incident, Covey was knocked down unconscious from his bike, in the foothills of Provo, Utah, about 45 miles south of Salt Lake City.

Though he was hospitalised after the accident at a hospital in Idaho Falls, he never recovered from the injury.

A family statement issued after the writer's demise, said: In his final hours, he was surrounded by his loving wife and each one of his children and their spouses, just as he always wanted, USA Today reported.

Soon after the accident, his publicist Debra Lund said: He just lost control on his bike and crashed...He was wearing a helmet.

Covey was the co-founder of Utah-based professional services company FranklinCovey.

In a press release issued by the official website of FranklinCovey, Bob Whitman, Chairman and CEO of FranklinCovey said: We lost a dear friend today. Stephen was one of the world's great human beings. His impact is incalculable and his influence will continue to inspire generations to come. We extend our deepest condolences to Dr. Covey's family, his wife Sandra, their nine children and spouses, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Stephen frequently referred to them as his greatest joy, inspiration, and most significant contribution and legacy to the world.

Recognized as one of Time magazine's 25 Most Influential Americans in 1996, Covey's bestsellers include 'First Things First,' 'Principle Centered Leadership,' 'The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families,' and 'The 8th Habit.'

'The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People' has sold over 20 million copies in 40 languages.

Twitterati Mourn the Demise of Stephen Covey

Even as news of Stephen Covey's demise broke out late Monday, the Twitter was flooded with RIP messages from colleagues, diplomats, business honchos and fans who expressed their anguish over his sudden departure.

Fellow motivational speaker and self-help author Brian Tracy, who serves as the Chairman of Brian Tracy International tweeted: Today, I'm extremely saddened by the passing of my dear friend, colleague, and mentor. Stephen Covey will be deeply missed.

Kristie Kenney, the current United States Ambassador to Thailand tweeted: RIP Stephen Covey. Thank you for teaching us a great life lesson: be proactive not reactive.

Aki Anastasiou, a radio personality tweeted, The key is not to prioritise what's on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities. RIP Stephen Covey.

Tweets were also pouring in from leading publications and self-help magazines.