Kiki Hakansson, the pioneering beauty queen who made history as the first-ever Miss World, has passed away peacefully at the age of 95. She died in her sleep on Monday, November 4, at her home in California. Her family confirmed that she "went peacefully, comfortably, and well taken care of."

Born in Sweden, Kiki Hakansson emerged as an international icon when, in 1951, she was crowned Miss World at the first-ever contest held in London. The first and original staging of the contest was held on July 29, 1951, in the Lyceum Ballroom, although it was an event intended only to be staged once to coincide with the Festival of Britain. Instead, her victory established a foundation for what would evolve to become the most recognized beauty pageant on earth, her legacy as the first Miss World remains etched in history.

The Miss World organization posted a heartfelt tribute on their official Instagram with deep sorrow over the passing of Hakansson. The post stated, "We extend our deepest sympathies to all Kiki's family, sending our love and offering our prayers at this difficult time."

Her son, Chris Andersen, also paid tribute to his mother, recalling her as  "real, kind, loving, and fun," with "a brilliant sense of humour and wit, and a big heart." He added, "She will be remembered by all who knew her for her warmth and generosity."

Julia Morley, the chairperson of Miss World, shared her tributes to Kiki, "A true pioneer," she labeled Kiki. "It was therefore fitting that Kiki would have her place in history as the first Miss World. "We will continue through eternity to celebrate the memory of the first-ever Miss World, Kerstin (Kiki) Hakansson, who is forever in our hearts."

That marks the end of an era for Miss World pageants since Kiki Hakansson is the first and has set in motion the future pageant winners.  Her influence continues to resonate in the lives of future generations of pageant queens, and her legacy as a trailblazer will be remembered for years to come.