Doris Day's selfless final request

Doris Day knew exactly how she wanted to be remembered when she died.

The Hollywood legend, who passed away on Monday at age 97, had previously asked for no funeral or memorial service before she died.

Her eponymous animal foundation have revealed the Calamity Jane actress wanted to be buried in an unmarked grave but fans wishing to pay their respects can honour the star by visiting their charity.

"Doris' passionate work on behalf of dogs, cats, horses, sea lions, raptors and other animals in need of rescue, veterinary care and adoption will not end,” the organisation said in a statement.

"The Doris Day Animal Foundation is committed to continuing its work as a grant-giving organisation, funding smaller animal welfare non-profits across the country.

"Doris' wishes were that she have no funeral or memorial service and no grave marker. Friends and fans wishing to remember Doris Day, are encouraged to visit www.dorisdayanimalfoundation.org."

The foundation broke the news of Doris' death, and revealed she had been in good health until recently falling ill.

"Day had been in excellent physical health for her age, until recently contracting a serious case of pneumonia , resulting in her death. She was surrounded by a few close friends as she passed,” they said in a statement.

Meanwhile, a host of stars have taken to their social media accounts to pay tribute to the singer-and-actress.

Thank you for your talent. R.I.P. #DorisDay,” tweeted Antonio Banderas.

Designer Stella McCartney shared a photo of herself with the "iconic" star.

She captioned the image: "The one, the only, the woman who inspired so much of what I do... Doris Day I love you, my calamity Jane. An iconic woman who I was hugely honoured to meet and share precious moments with. Rest in peace x".

Reporting by Bang Showbiz.

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