The inspiration behind the blue-haired, sweet-mannered, longtime TV mother, Marge Simpson, has passed away. The creator of “The Simpsons” Matt Groening’s mother, Margaret Ruth Groening, died at the age 94 in her Portland, Ore., home last month.

Groening reportedly passed away in her sleep on April 22. Groening is survived by the animated series creator and her three other children, Mark, Lisa and Maggie; eight grandchildren; two great grandchildren; and her brother, Arnold. The mother’s first born, Patty, died in January, the Oregonian reported Monday.

The Marge Simpson muse married her Everett, Wash., high school classmate, Homer Groening, in 1941, citing his sense of humor was what drew her to him. A talented needlework artist and Oregon Symphony supporter, the late Groening spent her professional life worker as a high school English teacher before birthing her children. Her parents originated from Norway, meeting on a boat while immigrating to the U.S.

Groening was among three other family members also named after characters on “The Simpsons." The series first aired in 1989 and is currently in its 24th season. The show was renewed by Fox in 2011 and features the antics of an eccentric American family of five.

Hundreds of fans from the beloved series, former neighbors and daily acquaintances commented on Groening’s passing Tuesday, calling the loss tragic.

“Margaret, you have left a special place in my heart forever as I treasure the many hours I had the good fortune of being able to spend with you over the years,” said Dena Sahli, a caregiver at Visiting Angels, which, according to Groening’s obituary, is where she spent her final years. “May your spirit fly free up there in the unknown,” she said.

One unidentified Portland Strohecker’s pharmacy employee referred to Groening as a “dear sweet lady."

“She always offered a smile and friendly conversation. ... [She] had nothing but praise and excitement for all of her kids and just loved to talk about them when asked,” said the worker, who claimed that out of respect others did not refer to her as her alter-ego’s name, Marge. “I feel fortunate to have had the pleasure of meeting such a kind spirit. She will be missed.”

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