William Moody, aka Paul Bearer, the manager of WWE star, The Undertaker, passed away Tuesday.
The 58-year old also helped launch the careers of wrestlers Kane and Mankind, died at a hospital in his hometown of Mobile, Alabama, according to a hospital employee. The hospital did not release cause of death, reported The Chicago Tirbune.
According to CBSNews, Moody, told the pro wrestling website, PWTorch.com, last year that he had a degree in mortuary science. He said he was a licensed funeral director and embalmer. He was called to WWE chairman Vince McMahon's office about taking the job as Undertaker's manager without the company knowing his true background.
Philip Gilmer, a close friend of Moody, said that the former WWE manager earned the respect of both the national professional wrestling and local funeral home communities, reported the Tribune.
Gilmer said Moody had breathing problems and sleep apnea lately.
"He was a gentle giant, a great person with a heart as big as Texas," he said.
The wrestling community was in deep shock after learning the news.
"Just informed via wwe.com Paul Bearer aka Percy Pringle passed away earlier today. I have no other details. RIP old friend," said Jim Ross, former WWE Hall of Famer.
"I'm so sorry to hear of the passing of Paul Bearer. Our prayers go out to him and his family. God Bless!!" said Shawn Michaels.
WWE superstar Hulk Hogan also expressed condolences. "Very sad about Paul Bearer, he was a great person and one of the original boys; he was what made wrestling great, much love and respect."
WWE famed Triple H said, "Rest in peace, Paul Bearer. You will never be forgotten. There will never be another."
