Cory Monteith Dead: Jane Lynch Remembers 'GLEE' Costar on 'Tonight Show With Jay Leno,' Dianna Agron Releases Heartfelt Statement About Fallen Friend [VIDEO]

GLEE actor Cory Monteith passed away on Saturday, July 13, due to a mix of heroin and alcohol in his system. The tragic death sent shock waves through the Hollywood community. Though Jane Lynch may play the ruthless Sue Sylvester on TV screens, the veteran actress got choked up when speaking about her costar and friend on last night's Tonight Show with Jay Leno.

"Tell me about your friend," Leno said, after commenting on Lynch's professionalism and strength in doing a TV interview so soon after the loss of a friend.

"Cory's one of the biggest hearts, was a real bright light, and he was one of those guys that knew he was breathing rarified air -- the gifts that this show, this wonderful show, gave us. He was always aware that it was a gift," Lynch said, holding back tears. "He was quite generous and one of those adventurous types of people. I always admired how he would get up and fly to Mexico and throw parties for his friends. I don't think he left one day unlived, and he was a real bright light in our family. We lost a really great guy."

Lynch gave a single example of Monteith's character that showed exactly what kind of person he was, highlighting his generosity, humbleness and love for his fans and job.

"He once flew across the country on his own nickel to meet this sick kid, who his last wish was to meet him. I mean, that's the kind of guy he was. He was just a real giver," she said.

Lynch is one of several GLEE stars who are beginning to share their feelings about their costar Monteith. She joins the slew of actors and production workers who tweeted their regards to Montieth. Girlfriend Lea Michele, Naya Rivera and Matthew Morrison have all mourned their costar through statements or tributes.

Dianna Agron, who plays Quinn Fabray on GLEE issued a statement regarding her TV love interest's passing: "I have never lost a friend. In this difficult time, I am leaning on all of the wonderful memories we shared with Cory, how many ways he was able to make us smile. 'Glee' was a gift to all of us. It gave us a family in this industry. We really cut our teeth and grew up on this show. In playing underdogs, we learned that we had dug into the hearts of our viewers and that we could stay there," she said.

"Cory is so deserving of that place in everyone's hearts. He was one of the most generous and kind people that I have ever met. He had a smart, curious mind. He was an enormous talent. He was loving to not only me, but my family," Agron continued. "My heart goes out to his family, to Lea, to everyone that is struggling with the loss of our friend. We will miss you Cory. We will always carry a piece of you with us."