Tommy Ford dead: Martin Lawrence shares touching tribute

Martin co-creator and star Martin Lawrence on Wednesday honored his costar Tommy Ford, who passed away at the age of 52, with a moving tribute on social media.

“My brother,” Lawrence began his Instagram post. “We were friends way b4 the Martin show & I’m glad we were able to show true friendship on-screen. You brought a lot of love to the world and you will be greatly missed. God Bless to you and the family. Rest In Peace my brother.”

Ford, who played Lawrence’s best friend on the ’90s sitcom, died on Wednesday in an Atlanta hospital, PEOPLE confirmed. According to TMZ, the actor was hospitalized due to a ruptured aneurysm in his abdomen and was placed on life support.

“Tommy was not only a great costar but he was a great man and friend,” said Lawrence in a statement to EW after his friend’s passing. “He always brought with him his spirituality a positive attitude and so much joy. I am sad the world lost a great talent and that I lost a wonderful friend. God bless him and his family.”

The Ford family also released a statement: “It is with great sadness that we announce the untimely passing of our beloved Son, father, brother, husband, and friend Tommy Mykal Ford. On behalf of the family, we would like to thank everyone for their love, support and prayers. Funeral arrangements will be forthcoming. Please respect the privacy of the Ford family during our time of grief.”