Helen Slayton-Hughes has died aged 92 (Picture: Getty)

Actress Helen Slayton-Hughes has died at the age of 92.

The star, who famously played Parks and Recreation icon Ethel Beavers, died on Wednesday, her family confirmed on social media.

In a Facebook tribute from December 8, they wrote: ‘To the friends and fans of our beloved Helen, Helen passed away last night.

‘Her pain has ended but her fierce spirit lives on.

‘Thank you for the love and support of her and her work. Rest sweet one. With love: The Hughes family.’

In a video montage, they added: ‘To our beloved Helen… you always made us laugh. Thank you for the love and laughter.

Her family confirmed the sad news of her death (Picture: Facebook)

‘You inspired us all by living your dream until the end.

‘Rest now, our sweet Helen. We know the laughter will continue wherever you are.’

Her cause of death has not been confirmed.

Slayton-Hughes carved out a huge career on our screens, making her debut in 1980 film Mafia on the Bounty, before starring in Klaus, Hesher, Shoot The Moon and Moxie.

Helen was a firm fan favorite on Parks and Recreation, and played Ethel Beavers in 11 episodes (Picture: NBC)

Her comedic timing made her a natural on TV, and she popped up in a string of the biggest sitcoms of the last few years, including Brooklyn Nine-Nine, New Girl, My Name Is Earl, Malcolm in the Middle and Arrested Development – as well as a brief cameo on Desperate Housewives.

However, it was her stint as beloved but cranky Ethel in Parks and Rec that she has been most remembered.

She starred as the court stenographer in 11 episodes, opposite Amy Poehler, Chris Pratt, Aubrey Plaza, Aziz Ansari, Rob Lowe and Nick Offerman.

Fans paid tribute on social media, remembering her best moments as the Pawnee favorite.

‘I’m so sorry to hear this and to pass this on but according to a Facebook post via her family, Helen Slayton-Hughes, our beloved Ethel Beavers, passed away last night,’ the ‘out of context Parks & Rec’ Twitter page penned.

She also appeared in a string of huge sitcoms throughout her career, including Rutherford Falls (Picture: NBC)

‘Sending so much love to her loved ones. What a delight she was.’

‘Oh no man, that is so sad, She was one of the best side characters in PnR, I will miss her so much,’ one replied.

More: Trending

‘Ethel Beavers has died! What a great side character she was, always got a laugh from me whenever she popped up,’ another agreed.

As a Twitter user added: ‘Awww 🙁 rest in peace Helen. Thanks for all the laughs.’

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Tributes poured in.