DALLAS -- Jenny, the oldest living gorilla in captivity, has passed away at the age of 55 from an inoperable tumor.

The tumor, which was located in her stomach, had begun to interfere with her eating and drinking, reported KXAS-TV in Dallas. Jenny had not been eating normally and had recently been showing signs of dehydration, despite attempts to provide her with food and liquids.

Jenny lived at the Dallas Zoo for more than 50 years and was one of only four gorillas over the age of 50 in North American zoos.

"She touched so many people's lives and helped them appreciate this endangered species," said Chuck Siegel, the zoo's deputy director for animal management. "Her longevity is a testament to the outstanding animal care that the Dallas Zoo provides for wildlife. Her legacy will live on through our commitment to educating the public about the importance of gorilla conservation and continuing our efforts to protect gorillas in the wild."

The Western lowland gorilla received national attention this spring as she celebrated her 55th birthday with Dallas Zoo staff, volunteers and many of her fans.

"We were fortunate to have the opportunity to celebrate her 55th birthday with several generations of staff, volunteers and zoo supporters," said Todd Bowsher, curator of mammals in the Wilds of Africa. "So many people reminisced about seeing Jenny during their childhood and brought their children back to meet her for the party. We had a tough time saying goodbye."

According to global animal records managed through the International Species Information System, Jenny was the oldest gorilla ever to be documented on ISIS records. More than 700 institutions around the world report their collection to ISIS.