Sam Simon, one of the most important figures in the history of The Simpsons, passed away recently after a long-running battle colon cancer, and the show aired a fittingly touching tribute to him this weekend. 

One of the co-creators of the series, Simon's impact on the show's popularity as well as how much it has influenced pop culture cannot be underestimated, and so last night as the newest episode of the show aired (episode 17 in the 26th season), they closed the credits with a tribute to him. 

The poignant, simple message was captured on Twitter by Dave Itzkoff of the New York Times. 

It reads simply "One of the greatest comic minds ever. Thank you, Sam". Simon created many of the characters that made the show so fantastic including Dr. Hibbert and Chief Wiggum, and also left almost all of his fortune to the various charities he worked with throughout the years. To say he was one of the good guys is probably an understatement. He will be missed.

Via Pedestrian