Wallis Annenberg, a prominent philanthropist and heiress to the Annenberg publishing empire, passed away Monday at 86 due to complications from lung cancer. Annenberg, chairwoman of the Annenberg Foundation, significantly impacted Los Angeles through substantial donations to arts, education, animal welfare, and environmental causes. Her contributions include the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, the Annenberg Community Beach House, and the upcoming Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing. The foundation, with approximately $1.2 billion in assets, will be led by Annenberg's three children.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.