Certainly, one of the most prolific genre filmmakers of all time, JESS (Jesus) FRANCO has passed on at 82. Franco directed almost 200 films, but, according to his biographer, Video Watchdog's Tim Lucas, there were probably more.
Many of the films were in the horror and thriller genre, with a few veering into SF territory like DIABOLICAL DR. Z and ATTACK OF THE ROBOTS.
But, Franco did a bit of everything from crime dramas to women in prison pics to hardcore porno (often released side--by-side with R-Rated versions).
His more well-regarded films include an early 60s Euro horror thriller AWFUL DR. ORLOFF, euro trash sex pics like VENUS IN FURS and SUCCUBUS, as well as a decent Christopher Lee starring take on COUNT DRACULA.
Still making movies up until the end, Franco was a unique moviemaker and his death represents the passing of an era in European genre cinema.