One of the most popular American entertainers of the 1950s and '60s, Lewis made his name as the clown behind such quirky comedies like "The Nutty Professor" but also won acclaim as a writer, actor and philanthropist.
The comedy legend, who at the peak of his popularity was among the world biggest movie draws, died at his home in Las Vegas early Sunday morning.
"I can sadly confirm that today the world lost one of the most significant human beings," his publicist Nancy Kane said in a statement. "Jerry died peacefully at home of natural causes surrounded by family and friends."
Fans were leaving flowers at the comedian's two stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Hollywood's iconic TCL Chinese Theater was to dim its lights Sunday evening in honor of Lewis, who in 2014 sank his hands and feet into the cement squares in the theater's forecourt.